Orthodontic FAQ's
When it comes to orthodontic care in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, there’s a lot to take into account, and we want to make sure you are confident in your treatment with us.
Here are some straightforward answers to common questions about Invisalign treatment and braces.
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is an advanced branch of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Usually, this involves fitting an appliance like aligners or fixed braces to ensure healthy alignment of the teeth and jaws.
The custom-made aligners are created to fit perfectly, using leading technology that measures the contours of your mouth. Plus, you can take them out while you eat and brush your teeth, so you don’t have the same restrictions as with traditional braces.
What is the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?
All Specialist Orthodontists started as dentists, but then took on a further 3 years of postgraduate study to specialise in the field of orthodontics. Your general dentist helps you with oral hygiene and fillings, but an orthodontist has the added training to straighten your smile.
What are invisalign aligners?
Invisalign offers a discreet, removable alternative to traditional braces by using custom-made clear trays to gradually straighten teeth. For effective results, these aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours daily, following a professional consultation to ensure they suit your specific dental needs.
Does orthodontic treatment hurt?
No, it doesn’t hurt. You may experience some soreness the first few days after fitting and adjustment appointments. However, this should pass quickly and is manageable with over-the-counter pain relief if needed.
What age is best for orthodontic treatment?
If your child is coming up to 7 years old, now is a great time to book an orthodontic appointment! This helps us catch orthodontic issues before they cause bigger problems.
Complex issues are easier to treat while the jaw is still growing, which is why the most popular time for treatment is between ages of 11 to 13. That being said, as long as your teeth and gums are healthy, we can treat adult patients into their 70s.
Am I a good candidate for Invisalign?
Invisalign can correct a wide range of orthodontic issues, including crowded teeth, gaps between teeth, overbites, underbites and crossbites. However, it’s not suitable for all cases, especially very severe ones. A free consultation with our orthodontist is the best way to determine if it’s the right treatment for you.
How long does invisalign take?
Invisalign treatment at Bamford Orthodontics Rochdale is approximately 18 months, though mild cases can be completed in as little as 12 months. Your specific timeline depends on the complexity of your dental needs and your commitment to wearing the aligners for 22 hours a day.
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign uses a series of clear, custom-made plastic aligners to gradually shift your teeth into the desired position. During your initial consultation, we will use a 3D scanner to create a precise model of your teeth. This model is then used to map out your treatment plan, which shows the step-by-step movement of your teeth. Each set of aligners is slightly different from the last, applying gentle, controlled pressure to move your teeth over time. You’ll typically change to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks from Bamford Orthodontics.
How much does invisalign cost?
Invisalign treatment typically starts from £3,000 for children and £4,000 for comprehensive adult cases. This fee is generally all-inclusive, covering the initial 3D scans, all necessary appointments with a specialist orthodontist, and essential aftercare.
We also offer “extras” such as three sets of retainers and a professional teeth whitening kit to complete your new smile.
Flexible payment plans are available, including 0% interest-free finance over 12 months.
Extended plans are also available with payments starting from approximately £89 per month, depending on your deposit. Because pricing is tailored to the complexity of your teeth, we recommend booking a free initial consultation to receive a precise, fixed-price quote.
See our full costs breakdown here: https://bamfordorthodontics.com/costs/
Can you still eat and drink normally with invisalign?
No, you cannot eat or drink normally while wearing Invisalign; you must remove the aligners for everything except plain, room-temperature water. Eating with your Invisalign aligners in can crack or warp the plastic, while drinking anything sugary, acidic, or colourful can lead to permanent staining and “trap” fluids against your enamel.
This creates a high risk for rapid tooth decay and cavities, as your teeth are essentially bathed in sugar or acid until the trays are removed and cleaned.
The trade-off for this inconvenience is that there are no dietary restrictions once the trays are out. You are free to enjoy crunchy or sticky foods that are off-limits with traditional braces, provided you brush and floss thoroughly before putting the aligners back in.
To stay on track with your treatment, you just need to ensure the trays are back in your mouth quickly enough to meet the required 22-hour daily wear time.
How long does fixed braces take?
Fixed braces treatment typically takes between 12 and 24 months, though some mild cases can be completed in as little as 6 to 9 months. The exact duration depends heavily on the complexity of your dental alignment and the specific goals of your treatment. For instance, clinical results show that moderate crowding can often be resolved with upper and lower fixed braces in approximately 14 months.
Your personal timeline is influenced by factors such as how well you follow care instructions, the type of brace used (metal or ceramic), and how quickly your teeth respond to pressure. To keep treatment on track, it is essential to attend all adjustment appointments and avoid damaging the brackets with hard foods. A personalised consultation and 3D scan at the practice are the only ways to receive a definitive estimate for your specific case.
How much does fixed braces cost?
Fixed braces at Bamford Orthodontics Rochdale typically start between £3,500 and £4,200. Specifically, dual-arch Ceramic Braces begin at £4,200, while Champagne Gold or a metal-ceramic mix start around £3,500. For those seeking maximum discretion, Lingual Braces (fitted behind the teeth) are the premium option, with prices starting from £4,500. These fees generally include the consultation, X-rays, all adjustments and your final retainers.
To help manage the investment, we offer 0% interest-free credit over 12 months or low-interest plans for up to 36 months, which can reduce monthly payments to roughly £89 – £160.
While some children may qualify for NHS care, adult and cosmetic treatments are private. A personal consultation is required to get an exact fixed-price quote based on your specific dental alignment needs.
Do I still have to visit my dentist during treatment?
Absolutely yes. It’s especially important for you to continue to see your dentist regularly while receiving orthodontic treatment because this will help to ensure your teeth remain clean and healthy throughout your treatment.
Do I still have to visit my dentist during treatment?
Yes! Invisalign® aligners can easily be worn during sport and instrument practice. But if you have fixed braces, we recommend that you protect your smile and appliance by wearing a custom sports mouthguard.
Why are retainers needed after orthodontic treatment?
Teeth run the risk of reverting back to their previous positions if they’re not stabilised. Wearing your retainers will help make sure your new smile lasts a lifetime.
Can you straighten my teeth before my wedding day?
At your initial consultation, we can give you an estimate of how long your orthodontic treatment is going to take. Bear in mind that your teeth need time to realign slowly, so if your wedding date is coming up soon, consider a discreet option like
Why are straight teeth important?
Orthodontics isn’t just about improved cosmetics. There are serious health and lifestyle benefits to teeth that are properly aligned. Straighter teeth make eating, speaking, breathing and sleeping easier. Straight teeth are also easier to clean, and less likely to get injured!
Have any further questions for our team in Rochdale?
If you still have questions about treatment, you can contact us or ask us directly at your first consultation.
