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Hereford Orthodontist
Looking for an expert Hereford orthodontist? The Mayhill is a long-established private dentist and orthodontist located in Monmouth, South Wales, not too far from Hereford.
Our leading dental practice is the recipient of multiple dentistry awards, including the Welsh Dentistry Award in 2016, so you can relax knowing your smile is in safe hands.
Book your consultation today
If you want to achieve a more desirable and pleasing set of teeth, why not contact our helpful reception team and book a consultation at The Mayhill today? You can book online or by phone during our opening hours, between 8:30 am to 5:30 pm every weekday.
What are orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on straightening teeth. Orthodontic treatment such as fixed braces and clear aligners can be a fast and cost-effective way of improving your smile and restoring your confidence.
In addition to having improved aesthetics, correctly aligned teeth are usually healthier and are easier to maintain, reducing the chances of tooth decay and gum disease.
Orthodontics in adults is now commonplace with the introduction of advanced technologies such as “invisible braces” or Invisalign, which are disguised from view.
Why do patients choose us?
Those searching for an expert Hereford dentist opt for us thanks to our excellent record of providing premium dental care and services - in fact, 85% of our patients are referred to us by personal recommendation!
With us, you'll receive orthodontic treatment in the comfort of the most modern, state-of-the-art facilities completed by an expert in the field.
Our specialist orthodontist in Hereford, Dr Ben Cross, has over 17 years of experience delivering the best smiles and has an excellent reputation based on a thorough and empathetic approach to treatment.
Ben can be relied upon to offer the best outcome for his patients whether they're dealing with tooth crowding, protruding teeth, cross bites or gaps between the teeth. His experience, calming manner and understanding puts his patients at ease immediately and throughout their time at The Mayhill.
Adult Orthodontics in Hereford
We offer the best teeth straightening solutions to tackle orthodontic issues such as:
- Overcrowding
- Overlapping
- Crooked teeth
- Gapped teeth
- Bite irregularities (malocclusion)
- Jaw irregularities
Our expert orthodontist is also able to correct orthodontic relapse from childhood.
Types of Braces:
See our extensive range of teeth alignment options:
Traditional Braces
A reliable alignment method with proven results, traditional metal braces can give patients the straighter smile they've always craved.
Traditional metal braces work by applying pressure to your teeth, gradually moving them into position over a series of months. They consist of several metal brackets that are positioned on the front of the teeth and connected by archwires, which are tightened periodically during treatment.
Conventional braces are very effective at aligning teeth and are a highly affordable option, perfect for teenagers. However, their appearance can be off-putting to adults who prefer a more discreet method, such as ceramic braces.
The length of treatment for fixed metal braces can last between 6 months to 2 years, depending on the severity of your case.
Ceramic Braces
Also known as clear braces, ceramic braces work in the same way as conventional metal types and offer the same great results, but differ in their aesthetic.
To make them more inconspicuous than metal types, the brackets are either made of a translucent ceramic material which allows the teeth to show through, or are tooth-coloured.
As they're more discreet and concealed, ceramic braces are an incredibly popular option with adult and child patients alike.
Depending on the complexity of your case, treatment duration can range from 6 months to 2 years.
Lingual or Incognito Braces
Ultra-modern and near undetectable, the incognito or lingual system is the ultimate in invisible orthodontics.
Unlike traditional or ceramic types, where the device is fitted to the front of the teeth, the brackets are fitted to the back of your teeth with lingual braces, keeping them hidden from view.
Incognito braces are favoured among working professionals who desire a straighter and more aesthetically pleasing smile but don't want to feel self-conscious about their appearance throughout treatment.
Treatment times for lingual braces can last up to 2 years depending on your individual case.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are an alternative to traditional orthodontic treatments and can give you a set of straight teeth without the need for fixed braces.
Using 3D technology, a custom-made aligner is made to match the exact dimensions of your teeth. These are completely transparent and comfortable to wear whilst gently moving the teeth to the desired position. We use the Insignia system, which has given patients excellent results.
This method is used for light to moderate tooth movements.
Childhood orthodontist near Hereford
Creating a beautiful smile for your child will help boost confidence and give them a great start in life.
Our dental facility in Monmouth, near Hereford, caters to children as well as adults, helping them to feel as comfortable as possible during their visits.
It's recommended that your child gets their first orthodontic consultation between the ages of 7 and 11 while their teeth and jaws are still developing.
Get in touch
We offer 0% finance plans to help our patients fund their alignment journey. To find out which option is best for you, get in contact and book a consultation with Dr Evans by filling in this form or calling 01600 712020.
Will having a brace hurt?
Whilst there may be some tenderness in the first or second evening after having your brace installed, the actual fitting of the brackets is painless. Over-the-counter painkillers can be used to ease any discomfort, and dental wax can be applied to your brace to relieve rubbing.
Will I need to have any teeth out?
This will depend on the level of crowding. Most treatments with modern brace systems can be done without removing teeth. However, there are cases when removing a tooth or teeth will provide much better results and a straighter set of teeth.
During a consultation at our dentist, Hereford patients will be provided with more information by their clinician on whether any teeth need to be removed before receiving a brace.
Will I be able to eat and drink as normal?
With fixed braces, you will need to avoid certain foods that could damage your braces and cause tooth decay. For example, sugary, hard, crunchy or sticky foods such as sweets, nuts and fizzy drinks shouldn't be consumed.
However, with clear removable braces, you can simply take them out whilst eating, so the aligners won't break or lose their shape.
Will I need a retainer?
Yes - a retainer will be needed following the completion of treatment to prevent your teeth from returning to their original position (relapse).
Without one, you could impact the long-term success of your alignment treatment and lose your new and straighter smile.
How often will I need an appointment?
Once your brace has been fitted, you will need to see the orthodontist every 6-8 weeks for adjustments.
Here, your Hereford orthodontist will also check the progress of your alignment and inspect the condition of your brace to ensure it's working as it should be.
Is orthodontic treatment expensive?
The cost of your treatment will depend on the type of brace you want and the length of treatment.
Typically, metal braces are the most affordable option, and lingual the most expensive.
We recommend weighing up the expense of the treatment against the long-term quality of life that straight teeth will give you.
Or, you could consider flexible financing, which allows you to pay for your orthodontic braces over a series of months. This way, straightening your teeth won't seem as costly.
How do I care for my teeth and braces?
Whilst wearing braces, it's essential you look after your teeth and gums. Brackets and wires have many nooks and crannies that can trap food and cause plaque build-ups. To keep your oral health and braces in excellent condition, you must:
- Continue to visit your dentist for regular check-ups.
- Maintain a regular tooth brushing routine, paying special attention around the brackets and between the teeth and gums.
- Avoid hard, sugary and sticky foods or drinks such as toffee, nuts and fizzy drinks. Foods like apples should be cut into small pieces.
- Refrain from chewing on pencils or biting your fingernails.
- Wear mouthguards if you play contact sport.
- Avoid snacking between meals.
Can braces break?
Although braces are designed to withstand eating forces, brackets and wires can sometimes become damaged. This could happen for various reasons, for example, as a result of eating hard foods or teeth grinding.
Signs that your brace system is broken may include discomfort, wires digging into your cheeks, missing brackets or unusually bent wires.
If you suspect that your brace is damaged, please call our Hereford orthodontist for advice and we'll book you in for a repair.
How long will I need to wear my braces?
This completely depends on the severity of your alignment issues. Some patients may only need to have braces for 12 months, whereas others with severe misalignment may require 2 years of treatment.
During an examination at our state-of-the-art practice, an experienced orthodontist will examine your teeth and determine how long you can expect to have your braces fitted.
To book a consultation today, simply call us on 01600 712020 or use our handy contact form.