Orthodontic treatment is a way of straightening or moving teeth, to improve the appearance of the teeth and how they work. It can also help to look after the long-term health of the teeth, gums and jaw joints, by spreading the biting pressure over all the teeth.

At the initial appointment, your dentist will do a very detailed dental examination. If necessary, a number of X-ray pictures may be taken. These show your dentist how the facial bones and teeth are developing. The dentist may also make some moulds of your teeth and take some photographs.

If you have any decayed teeth, these will need to be treated by your dentist before orthodontic treatment starts. Your orthodontist will explain:

The length of treatment depends on how severe the problem is, and may take anything from a few months to two and a half years. Most people can be treated in one to two years.