FAQs

For Patients

  • What is orthodontics? +

    Orthodontics is the dental speciality that is concerned with the growth of the face and alignment of the teeth. The aim of orthodontic treatment is to provide a pleasing smile and comfortable bite. Orthodontic treatment can increase a patient's self confidence.

  • Am I too old for orthodontic treatment? +

    There is no age limit for orthodontic treatment. More and more adults are having treatment these days – both for simple tooth straightening and more complex bite correction.

  • What will treatment cost? +

    The cost of treatment will depend on the complexity of your case and the type of treatment undertaken. Inspire Orthodontics offer various payment options to help make your treatment more easily affordable.

  • Do you offer clear braces? +

    We are able to offer Invisalign and ceramic (tooth coloured) fixed appliances, which are both far less visible.

  • How often will I have to see the orthodontist? +

    We like to see our patients every 6 to 8 weeks, on average.

  • Is orthodontic treatment painful? +

    Treatment is not painful. Your teeth will feel tender after the appliance is fitted and after each adjustment, but over the counter painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol will be sufficient to alleviate any discomfort.

  • What food is it best to avoid during orthodontic treatment? +

    Acidic foods and drinks that can damage tooth enamel when consumed frequently or when sipped over extended periods of time. Most of us are well aware that sugary foods and drinks can lead to tooth decay. Starchy foods, such as potato chips, can also stick to teeth for long periods of time and cause tooth decay. Fizzy drinks and diluting squash, even diet and no added sugar versions, are especially hard on teeth because they not only contain acidic flavour additives, but also includes 10–12 teaspoons of sugar, which further increases your chance of developing cavities.

    There are also foods that can loosen, break or bend wires and bands when you are wearing braces. Avoid hard foods such as nuts. Foods such as apples and carrots should be chopped into small pieces before eating to reduce the stress on your braces. Avoid sticky foods such as caramels, toffees, muesli or fruit bars. No chewing gum.

    Habits such as nail biting, pencil chewing and nervous picking at your wires can also break braces. Be aware of these and make an effort to stop them. Remember that damaged braces mean extra appointments, inconvenience and extended treatment time. If you do break your braces, be sure to make an appointment with us immediately. Broken braces are not correcting your teeth.

    While you are wearing orthodontic braces, it is essential that you take care of your teeth and gums. The brackets and wires have many nooks and crannies that can trap food and plaque. This means your risk of tooth decay and gum problems may be higher while you are wearing braces.

    You need to pay special attention to cleaning your teeth after every meal and to your diet. Permanent damage to tooth enamel can occur if the teeth and appliance are not kept clean.

    Areas on the enamel surface may begin to lose minerals (the early stage of tooth decay), leaving unsightly white spots. You may also develop inflamed, bleeding gums (gingivitis). Gingivitis and the early stages of tooth decay can be reversed by taking extra care with your cleaning and diet. If left untreated, they can lead to bigger problems that will require treatment and have life-long effects. While you are having orthodontic treatment, you need to continue to have regular check-ups with your General Dental Practitioner.

  • Will my teeth stay straight after the treatment is finished? +

    Yes, but it is essential to wear a retainer at the end of brace treatment in order to maintain teeth in their new position. Age changes also mean that teeth move over time. These can be in various forms - clear mouthguard-style retainers, those made from wire and plastic, or it may involve a thin wire fixed to the inside of the teeth.

  • Will braces affect my speech? +

    Everybody reacts differently to braces but if this happens any speech impediment is temporary and soon goes away, particularly with simple exercises.

  • What is an oral hygiene session? +

    At this session, our experienced dental hygienist will discuss your general oral health and give you oral hygiene advice. They will also:

    Check your gums and teeth for any signs of problems, such as receding gums or tooth wear.

     

    Show you how to care for your teeth and gums by using a toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to maintain good oral health.

     

    Show you how to clean in between your teeth with floss, tape or interdental brushes and demonstrate an effective tooth-brushing technique.

    Give you advice on the types of toothbrush, toothpaste and other cleaning aids, such as mouthwashes, that are best suited to your needs.

     

    Remove any calculus or stains by scaling your teeth and then polishing them.

     

     

     

  • Benefits of an oral hygiene session +

    Good oral hygiene ensures a healthy mouth and teeth. It is important for your overall health as bleeding gums or bad breath is not only difficult to live with but could be a sign of other issues. It is recommended you see your dentist regularly.

    For a comprehensive oral hygiene routine, you should include a session with an oral hygienist as well as your regular check-ups. The benefits of an oral hygiene session are:

    A hygienist can help to remove the stains appearing on your teeth, which regular brushing and flossing won’t be able to.

    A hygienist can floss in those hard to reach places.

    A hygienist can look for signs of gum disease or plaque buildup and help to keep this at bay.

    Your teeth will also receive a comprehensive clean tailored just for you!

     

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For GDPs

  • When is the best time to refer a patient? +

    Usually once a patient is almost in the permanent dentition is the best time to refer. However, if you or the patient and parents are concerned about anything at an earlier stage we would be happy to see them.

  • How can I refer a patient to Inspire Orthodontics? +

    Please either email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or fill out a contact form

  • What should I do if a patient under orthodontic treatment needs a restoration? +

    Please contact the practice by telephone on 07925 665651 and advise us which tooth and the date you propose to undertake this. We can then arrange to see the patient just prior to your appointment to remove the bracket and wire. We can then see the patient soon after to replace the appliance.

  • What records should I send? +

    If you have a panoramic (OPG) radiograph we would appreciate you sending this with the referral. We will take a copy of this radiograph and return it to you.

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Announcements

  • Now offering direct access hygienist service +

     

    Inspire Orthodontics is please to offer a direct access hygienist service starting in August 2020.

     

    To keep our teeth in position our gums need to be healthy to anchor them in place.

     

    You can book an oral hygiene session directly with our hygienist. 

    Please email the practice on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to schedule your appointment.

     

    Read More
  • Quick Fix Braces +

    The Guardian newspaper ran an article by the British Orthodontic Society in the 23rd February 2013 edition.

    The article, entitled, Considering straightening your teeth? Don’t be misled by the promise of a quick fix, addresses the British Orthodontic Society concerns, following a growing number or reports from patients who are dissatisfied with the results of treatments used by some cosmetic dentists to straighten teeth.

    Read More
  • Free initial consultations +

    Inspire Orthodontics offer free initial consultations. There is no commitment and no charge, so come and have an informal discussion with our Consultant Orthodontist about your teeth and the possible treatment options.

    Read More
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Contact us

Inspire Orthodontics,
73-75 Estcourt Road,
Salisbury, SP1 3AX

Tel
01722 410528

Email
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.