Children's Orthodontics in Finchley for a Healthy, Confident Smile

The British Orthodontic Society suggests a first orthodontic check-up around age 7. This does not guarantee treatment starts immediately, but it helps us spot developing issues early. You should book an assessment if you see crowded or misaligned teeth, trouble chewing or biting, or early or late loss of baby teeth. Other signs include thumb sucking beyond age five, jaws that shift or click, or teeth that do not meet properly. An early evaluation at our Finchley clinic helps us plan the best time to begin treatment, which can reduce time and complexity later on.

Treating a child’s teeth is a team effort with you and your child. Begin with a 60 minute consultation where we take digital images and scans to assess needs. Then we create a personalized plan, discuss options and costs. Braces are fitted, usually in about 60 to 90 minutes. Afterward, you come in for adjustments every 6 to 8 weeks to track progress. Most treatments run 18 to 24 months. After removal, a retainer keeps the new smile stable for years.

Traditional fixed braces are a strong option for a range of issues, from crowding to bite problems. They use small metal brackets on each tooth connected by a wire that guides teeth into place. They are more visible, but braces have improved and are smaller and more comfortable now. They deliver precise results. For example, a 12-year-old in North Finchley with severe crowding improved in 20 months with fixed braces, gaining a functional bite and a confident smile.

For teens who want less visible gear, Invisalign Teen offers a discreet path using clear removable aligners. Aligners fit over the teeth and are replaced every 1 to 2 weeks. Because they are removable, it is easier to clean teeth and there are no food restrictions. Invisalign suits mild to moderate cases. We treated a 15-year-old from Muswell Hill who worried about braces; she finished Invisalign in 14 months and was happy with the discreet process and final result.

It is normal for your child to feel some discomfort for the first few days after braces are fitted or adjusted. This is manageable with over-the-counter pain relief like paracetamol. We recommend a soft food diet for the first 2 to 3 days, such as soup, yogurt, and mashed potatoes. Good oral hygiene is essential; we will show your child how to brush and floss around braces. If a wire pokes or a bracket comes loose, call our practice during office hours for advice. For genuine emergencies outside hours, call 111 or go to A&E.

Pricing is clear with no surprises. As a private-only practice, we do not offer NHS orthodontics. The cost depends on how complex the case is and the type of brace chosen. Traditional fixed metal braces for children usually range from £2,500 to £4,500. For teenagers, Invisalign Lite starts at £3,300 and Invisalign Full at £4,400. This includes all adjustment appointments, final retainers, and follow-up care. We accept private insurance from Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. A detailed quote is provided during the initial consultation.

To choose the right option for your child, come prepared. Whether you meet with us or another clinic in Finchley, here are essential questions to ask: What specific issues does my child have? Which treatment do you recommend and why? What is the total estimated cost and what does it include? How long will the entire process take? Are after-school appointments available? What should we do if a wire breaks? How will we maintain results after the braces come off?