In my practice as a Specialist Orthodontist I am used to seeing lots of children and adults of all ages choose orthodontics as an option to improve the appearance of their teeth and smile, as well as correct their bite.
One thing has come to dominate over recent years, and that is the huge number of apparently magical and speedy brace treatments promoting their benefits direct to patients. The upshot of this is that patients are often confused or even misled about what may be the best treatment for their needs.
A key part of what we do at Queensway is to debunk some of the myths about tooth straightening and help patients make the best choices to suit their needs and expectations.
Myth: Orthodontic treatment means wearing metal braces
Metal braces remain a popular option for many patients. A popular alternative is a tooth coloured or ceramic fixed appliance which, while not invisible, is very discreet and a more understated option for patients who don’t want to shout about their treatment. For virtually invisible treatment more and more teenagers and adults are choosing Invisalign removable aligners. Invisalign is now an incredibly important part of my practice as it allows more patients to access the benefits of having their teeth straightened who were put off by the appearance of traditional braces. At Queensway we have treated over 500 patients with Invisalign and love seeing the results that can be achieved and how easily it fits into people’s lifestyles. It’s also worth mentioning that more teenagers than ever are choosing Invisalign – for the same sorts of reasons as the adults, but also because they perhaps play a lot of sport or wind instruments.
Myth: Orthodontic treatment is for kids
I treat patients of all ages, young and old (currently, my oldest patient is 77). Age is certainly not a barrier when it comes to achieving a healthy, confident smile, and while some people want and need comprehensive treatment, quite commonly treatment will be focussed on one or two key concerns and can be simple and surprisingly fast. We look after lots of brides and bridegrooms and will always try to make the Big Day deadline!
Myth: Everyone who straightens teeth is an orthodontist
While some general dentists offer treatment to straighten teeth and are very good at it, a Specialist Orthodontist has completed (at least) five additional years of study and training in how teeth move, before they can register as a Specialist. If you are in doubt you can have a look at the credentials of who is doing your treatment on the General Dental Council website or via the British Orthodontic Society.
Myth: Orthodontic treatment is expensive
Treatment from a Specialist Orthodontist means access to the skills, expertise and efficiencies of someone entirely focussed on straightening teeth and trained accordingly. While treatment is certainly an investment, if well looked after and the retainers are worn the results can last a lifetime (unlike some of the more invasive alternatives such as veneers). In addition, most practices (including Queensway) offer some sort of payment plan. We find a lot of our patients choose a flexible interest-free option to pay over 12 to 18 months.
Myth: Orthodontic treatment is purely cosmetic
Although we always plan for a great looking smile there are many other benefits to treatment including a better bite and teeth that may be easier to clean, look after or for a dentist to repair. Orthodontics is normally a once in a lifetime treatment and it is worth considering the additional value over and above just straight front teeth before making a final choice.
Myth. All orthodontists do is take those horrible moulds
This used to be the case but no more! At Queensway we have two of the latest iTero intra-oral scanners which means there is no gunge and no impressions easy! Plus we can now take advantage of the latest software planning and treatment simulation software to help you visualise your treatment before you have anything done. Visit our Facebook page or website to see videos of the scanner in action.
Orthodontic treatment is a great option for lots of adults (and children), but think carefully about your options and choose an orthodontist who can provide the best treatment options for you, achieving the confident straight smile you are looking for.
Dr Guy Deeming BDS Hons, MFDS, MSc, Morth is a Specialist Orthodontist and partner at Queensway Orthodontics, working in Billingham and Jesmond. He is a Clinical Speaker for Invisalign, involved with teaching and training other orthodontists and has treated over 500 cases. In addition he is the Director of Clinical Practice on the board of the British Orthodontic Society, a founder member of the UK Invisible Orthodontic Network and previously an Honorary Clinical Lecturer and visiting practitioner at Newcastle Dental Hospital.
Dr Guy Deeming – has recently become an Invisalign Diamond Provider, 1 of only 10 in the UK!
This accreditation is to recognise that Guy has completed more than 150 cases in the last year using Invisalign, demonstrating his wealth of experience with the virtual invisible aligner system. He has seen and treated over 500 Invisalign patients at our practices in Billingham and Jesmond, from those with very mild to extremely complex cases. His experience and commitment to the clear braces means he knows how to get the very most out of the system to deliver the best possible results.
To celebrate we are giving away a Philips Sonicare rose gold DiamondClean electric toothbrush plus an air-polish for a clean, white, super sparkly smile a prize worth £395! For your chance of winning, add Queenswayjesmond on Instagram and share your best smiley selfie with us. Tag @Queenswayjesmond and use the hashtag #Mydiamondsmile
