Frequently Asked Questions
Which patients are suitable for Invisalign?
The vast majority of patients can be treated using. Dr Coley-Smith is a leading Invisalign provider and has treated over 200 patients with the appliance system.
Will if hurt?
It is unusual for patients to experience discomfort from treatment with aligners.
Can I play wind instruments or contact sports?
The aligners can be removed to play wind instruments and for contact sports.
Will I need to wear another brace once my treatment has finished?
Once the active phase of your treatment has finished you will need to wear a retaining brace (retainer) to hold your teeth in their corrected position. The retainers may be removable or they may be permanently fixed behind your front teeth. The length of time these have to be worn can vary.
How often will I need an appointment?
You will need to attend for an appointment every 8 weeks. It is possible to have longer intervals between appointments and we have patients who travel abroad for extended periods of time. It is important that this is discussed in detail before treatment commences.
Will if affect my speech?
The effect on speech is usually minimal and only for a very short period of time.
Do I still need to see my regular dentist?
Yes. It will be important for you to have check-ups with your regular dentist throughout your course of orthodontic treatment so that your teeth can be checked for any signs of decay.
Request your complimentary assessment
Other Treatments Provided by Solihull Orthodontic Centre
Private Treatment
Private orthodontic treatment is available to patients of all ages. You can be referred to us by your family dentist, or self refer.
Ceramic Aesthetic Fixed Braces
Ceramic aesthetic fixed braces are a good choice if you are concerned about the appearance of metal braces. They work in exactly the same way as stainless steel appliances but are made from a translucent ceramic so that they blend with the underlying tooth colour.
NHS Treatments
NHS treatment is available to eligible patients under 18 years and is intended to provide treatment for those patients who require it on the grounds of dental health.
Functional Appliances
A functional appliance is made up of two parts, one that fits in the upper jaw and one that fits in the lower jaw. They work together to alter the way that your teeth bite together by holding the lower jaw forwards.
Traditional Fixed Braces
Fixed braces are carefully bonded onto the teeth and stay in place for the course of treatment. Straightening wires run between the various attachments and are held in place with elastics.
Removable Braces
Removable braces can be removed from your mouth yourself for cleaning. They are used to carry out simple tooth movements and often used in conjunction with a fixed brace.
Retainers
Following orthodontic treatment it is important that the teeth are held in their new straightened position. This can be achieved by wearing removable or fixed retainers or a combination of the two.