Treatment duration varies depending on the complexity of your case and the type of orthodontic appliance used. On average, traditional braces treatment takes between 12 to 24 months, whilst clear aligner therapy may range from 6 to 18 months for mild to moderate cases. During your initial consultation, we'll provide a personalised timeline based on your specific needs and treatment goals.
Your Journey to a Confident Smile Starts Here
Looking for expert orthodontic care in Oxford? At Summertown Dental Practice, we understand that achieving a confident smile is about more than just appearance – it’s about your oral health and wellbeing. Our experienced orthodontic team offers a comprehensive range of treatments tailored to patients of all ages, from children and teenagers to adults seeking to improve their smile. Whether you’re considering traditional braces or modern clear aligners, we’re here to guide you through every step of your orthodontic journey.
Orthodontic Treatments to Suit You
We offer a range of orthodontic solutions to suit different clinical requirements and personal preferences.
Bite Correction & Teeth Grinding
Orthodontic solutions to improve bite alignment and reduce issues caused by grinding or clenching.
Smile Makeover
A combination of orthodontics and cosmetic dentistry to enhance the overall appearance of your smile.
Get In Touch
A Beautiful Smile at Any Age
- Is there a 'wrong age' to get braces?
Absolutely not! Whilst many people associate orthodontic treatment with teenagers, adults make up a growing proportion of orthodontic patients. Whether you missed out on treatment as a child or your teeth have shifted over time, it's never too late to achieve the smile you've always wanted. - When is the best age for a child to visit the orthodontist for the first time?
We recommend that children have their first orthodontic assessment around age seven. Early evaluation allows us to identify potential issues whilst your child is still growing, which can make treatment easier and more effective. However, this doesn't necessarily mean treatment will begin immediately-we'll only recommend intervention when the timing is right. - Who's the best person to contact if I have a query about my child's teeth?
Our friendly reception team is always happy to help with any questions about your child's orthodontic needs. You can reach us by phone or email, and we'll arrange a consultation with one of our orthodontic specialists who can provide expert advice tailored to your child's individual circumstances. - What age can I get retainers?
Retainers are typically provided at the end of active orthodontic treatment, regardless of age. Whether you complete treatment as a teenager or an adult, retainers are essential for maintaining your results. Custom-made to fit your teeth perfectly, they're comfortable, discreet, and designed for long-term wear.
Benefits of Orthodontics
- Improved confidence and self-esteem through a beautiful smile
- Better oral health as straighter teeth are easier to clean effectively
- Enhanced facial aesthetics with properly aligned teeth and jaws
- Reduced risk of tooth decay and gum disease through improved oral hygiene
- Better chewing function and reduced jaw strain
- Long-lasting results that can benefit you for a lifetime
Orthodontics - FAQs
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Will orthodontic treatment be painful?
Whilst orthodontic treatment shouldn't be painful, it's normal to experience some discomfort, particularly in the first few days after your braces are fitted or adjusted. This mild soreness typically subsides within a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief if needed. Modern orthodontic techniques are designed to be as comfortable as possible, and any discomfort you do experience is a sign that your teeth are moving into their correct positions.
How much does orthodontic treatment cost?
The cost of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the complexity of your case and the type of appliance you choose. During your consultation, we'll provide a detailed, transparent quote with no hidden fees. We offer flexible payment plans to help spread the cost of treatment over manageable monthly instalments, making orthodontics accessible to more patients.
Can I still play sports with braces?
Yes, you can continue to enjoy sports whilst wearing braces. However, we strongly recommend wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard to protect your teeth, lips, and orthodontic appliances during contact sports or activities where there's a risk of facial impact. We can provide a specially designed orthodontic mouthguard that fits comfortably over your braces.
What if I need a brace removed?
Orthodontic appliances should only be removed by a qualified orthodontist or dentist. If you're experiencing discomfort, have a loose bracket, or need your braces removed for any reason, please contact our practice immediately. Emergency appointments can usually be arranged quickly, and attempting to remove or adjust braces yourself can damage your teeth and compromise your treatment results.
Do I need to avoid certain foods with braces?
Yes, certain foods can damage your braces or become trapped around the brackets and wires. We recommend avoiding hard foods (such as nuts and hard sweets), sticky foods (like toffee and chewing gum), and foods you need to bite into with your front teeth (such as whole apples or corn on the cob). We'll provide you with a comprehensive list of foods to avoid and tips for maintaining your braces during your treatment.
Start Your Orthodontic Treatment Today
Commencing your journey toward a better smile is just a click away. Book your consultation today and discover how our expert team can help you.
Phone 01865 558822 or email [email protected]
Summertown Dental Practice
01865 558822 
