Specialist Braces for West Finchley Residents & Families

You should consider braces if you or your child have noticeable issues with tooth alignment or bite function. Common reasons include crooked, crowded, or protruding teeth that are hard to clean, which can raise the risk of decay. A malocclusion or bad bite such as an overbite, underbite, or crossbite can cause jaw pain and uneven tooth wear. Many patients also seek braces for cosmetic reasons, aiming for a straighter, more confident smile. You are a good candidate if you commit to maintaining excellent oral hygiene during treatment, which typically lasts 12 to 24 months.

Your treatment begins with a 45 minute consultation, where we take digital images and X-rays to assess your needs and discuss options. The next major appointment is the fitting, which lasts around 60 to 90 minutes. Here, we clean your teeth and carefully bond the brackets before threading the archwire through. After this, you visit every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments, which are shorter 20 to 30 minute appointments to tighten the wires and monitor progress. Total treatment time varies from 12 to 24 months. Finally, the debonding appointment to remove the braces takes about an hour, followed by fitting your custom retainers to maintain the results.

In the first days after braces are fitted or adjusted, you may feel mild discomfort or tenderness. This is easier to manage with over‑the‑counter pain relief. We suggest soft foods such as soups, pasta, and yogurt for the first week. You should adjust your cleaning routine and use interdental brushes to clean around the brackets and wires carefully. Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that may damage the appliance. Long term, wearing your retainer as instructed after the braces come off helps prevent teeth from shifting back. If you experience a broken wire, a loose bracket, or persistent sharp pain, call our practice during office hours.

In many cases, especially for adults, Invisalign offers a popular option. These clear, removable aligners are nearly invisible and can be taken out for eating and cleaning. Invisalign Lite works for minor corrections and costs £3,300, while Invisalign Full suits more complex cases at £4,400. Traditional fixed braces remain effective for severe bite issues or complex tooth movements. Another choice is ceramic braces, which use tooth‑coloured brackets for a discreet look. During your consultation we explain the pros and cons of each option based on your clinical needs and lifestyle.

To make an informed choice for your orthodontic care, ask these questions of any dentist in the West Finchley area. Inquire about the specific type of braces they recommend and why it suits your case. Seek the total estimated cost, what it covers, and whether payment plans are available. Clarify the expected treatment duration and how often you will need adjustment appointments. Finally, ask about their process for handling emergencies outside scheduled visits and the cost of retainers.

As a private practice, we offer specialist level orthodontic care with clear pricing. The cost for traditional fixed metal braces typically ranges from £2,500 to £4,500, depending on the complexity and duration of treatment. Ceramic braces may cost a bit more due to the materials used. This fee includes the fitting, all adjustment appointments, and the removal of the braces. The cost of Vivera retainers (£500) is separate and essential for maintaining results. We are a private practice and do not offer NHS orthodontics. We do accept plans from providers like Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna, and we can discuss coverage during a consultation.