Children's Orthodontics in Finchley Central | Private Dental Care

The British Orthodontic Society recommends a child's first orthodontic check-up around age 7. While treatment may not start then, it allows us to identify developing issues. You should consider a consultation at our Finchley practice if you notice your child has visibly crowded or crooked teeth, difficulty chewing or biting, early or late loss of baby teeth, or habits like thumb sucking. It's also a good idea if their jaw seems to shift or make sounds. Early assessment helps us plan the ideal time for treatment, ensuring the best possible results.

A 12-year-old patient from Finchley Central came to us with significant upper front teeth crowding. We used fixed metal braces for 18 months. The result was a perfectly aligned smile, greatly boosting her confidence. Her parents were pleased with the clear pricing and flexible appointment times. Another example is a 9-year-old from a nearby school who had a crossbite. We used a removable appliance for 9 months to guide his jaw growth, preventing more complex issues later. This early intervention meant his second phase of treatment with fixed braces will be shorter and simpler.

After your child's braces are removed, the 'retention' phase begins. This is just as important as the active treatment. Your child will be fitted with custom-made retainers, which can be fixed (a thin wire bonded behind the teeth) or removable (like a clear gumshield). They must wear their retainers as instructed, usually full-time for a few months and then nightly for the long term, to prevent teeth from shifting back. We'll schedule follow-up appointments for the first year to check the retainers and ensure the results are stable. Good oral hygiene remains essential to protect their newly straightened teeth.

For some children, especially those with less complex issues or who need early intervention, there are alternatives to traditional fixed braces. Removable Appliances can be used in younger children (ages 8-11) to correct bite problems or guide jaw growth before all adult teeth have come in. Invisalign First is another option, using clear, removable aligners designed specifically for growing children. It's a more discreet choice but requires high compliance. During your consultation, we will explain all suitable options, comparing the benefits and costs of each to help you decide what's best for your child.

To make an informed choice for your child, here are some key questions to ask, whether you visit our practice in Finchley or another provider. What specific orthodontic problem does my child have? What are all the treatment options available, and what are the pros and cons of each? What is the estimated total cost, and what does it include (e.g., retainers, follow-up visits)? How long will the active treatment take? How will we manage any discomfort or emergencies, like a broken wire? What are the long-term retainer requirements?

As a fully private practice, we don't offer NHS orthodontics. The cost of private children's orthodontic treatment depends on the complexity and type of brace used. Treatment with fixed metal braces typically starts from around £2,500. This fee includes all adjustment appointments during the active treatment phase and a set of removable Vivera retainers (£500 value). We provide a detailed cost breakdown with no hidden fees after the initial consultation. We accept several private dental insurance plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna, which may cover a portion of the cost. Please check with your provider about your specific policy.