Treatment for independent patients
If your child is ineligible for treatment under the NHS we can see them as an independent patient. You will have to pay for this treatment, but as an independent patient the team at Bishops Stortford Orthodontics will provide you with the same level of care we would an NHS patient at a reduced cost.
Your treatment journey
Before you begin treatment as an independent patient, we will assess your orthodontic needs and sit down to discuss your treatment options. Not all types of orthodontic braces are available but we'll explain this to you at your assessment. We'll also take an x-ray to help us assess your growth and development.
Once your braces have been fitted we ask you come in for regular checks so we can see how well your teeth are moving into position. This is when we'll tighten your braces to ensure your teeth continue to move. Although this isn't painful, it can cause some discomfort, such as headaches, so you may wish to have some over-the-counter pain relief at hand.
When your teeth have finally moved into their new position and your braces have been removed, we'll fit you with a retainer. This helps to keep your teeth straight. Your retainer should be worn both day and night immediately after treatment and then just at night. We'll advise you on this at your appointment.
If at any time during your treatment your brace breaks or causes you problems, contact us to arrange an emergency appointment.