Traditional Metal Braces for North Finchley Patients

Metal braces suit moderate to severe orthodontic problems. They work well for crowding, large gaps between teeth, or complex bite issues like deep overbites, underbites, or crossbites. While not as discreet as clear aligners, their strength and fixed nature make them a strong option for moving teeth efficiently. For example, a teenager from North Finchley with severe crowding benefited from metal braces and completed treatment in about 18 months. They are also ideal for patients who want a set-and-forget solution without daily removal of aligners.

Your treatment starts with a 60-minute consultation at our Finchley practice, where we take digital scans and X rays to craft a precise plan. The fitting visit usually lasts 1 to 2 hours. We bond a small bracket to each tooth and connect them with a thin archwire. You will return every 4 to 6 weeks for about 30 minutes to adjust things. During these visits, we tighten or swap the wire to keep your teeth moving. Total treatment time typically runs 18 to 24 months. After alignment is achieved, we remove the braces and provide a custom retainer to maintain your new smile long term.

It is common to feel mild discomfort for the first few days after the braces are placed and after each adjustment. Over-the-counter pain relief can help. Soft foods such as soup, pasta, and yoghurt are easier to eat for the first 48 hours. You may need to adjust your oral hygiene routine and use special brushes to clean around the brackets and wires to prevent plaque buildup. Avoid very hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could damage the braces. An adult patient from North Finchley found that a water flosser helped keep teeth and braces clean during a 22-month treatment. If a bracket becomes loose, call our practice during office hours for advice.

The main alternative to traditional metal braces is Invisalign clear aligners. Aligners offer a nearly invisible way to straighten teeth and are removable for meals and cleaning. They require high patient compliance to wear them around 22 hours a day. Metal braces stay fixed in place, which can be more effective for complex bite corrections and eliminate concerns about wearing time. Our Invisalign Full treatment costs £4,400, while metal braces often cost less for substantial orthodontic work. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of each option during your consultation to find the best fit for your needs and lifestyle.

To help you decide on your orthodontic care, here are key questions to ask. First, what is the total estimated cost of the treatment, and does it include retainers and follow-up visits? Ask about the expected treatment duration for your case and how often you’ll need adjustments. Finally, ask what happens if a bracket breaks or a wire loosens outside of office hours and what type of retainer they recommend after treatment.

Private metal brace treatment costs vary with complexity and length. At our Finchley practice, we provide a fully detailed treatment plan after your initial visit, with no hidden fees. While we cannot offer a fixed price here, traditional braces are generally a cost-effective option. We are a private practice and do not offer NHS orthodontics. We do accept several private insurance plans, including Denplan, Cigna, and Max Bupa, which may cover part of your costs. We will explain your coverage and discuss payment options during your visit.