Can i get NHS orthodontics for crooked teeth or will I need to go private

[Dan_1]

Hi,

I have not been to the Dentist since a very young age. I’m absolutely disgusted with my teeth and I am too embarrassed to smile. I have been having tooth ache for a week now, since I stopped using Sensodyne. I get a pain in my lower set of teeth whenever I drink something cold. I really need to do something about my teeth because I cannot live like this any longer, I have two canine teeth that are not a full length and the teeth that are next to the canines are sitting behind the my bottom set of teeth when I close my mouth. I now I need to do something about this, but I am too embarrassed to make the first step, I am worried what the dentist will think of my yellow crooked teeth.

I have seen several Orthodontics treatments being offered and I appreciate that without a full consultation the Dentist will not be able to direct me to the correct treatment. But, I would really like to make the first step and would like to know if a Dentist on this forum could give me his/her advice as to whether Orthodontics would be suitable in my case? I know I have problems with my teeth, so should I get these resolved by an NHS dentist as I qualify for free treatment, or should I pay a private dentist to have these matters resolved.

Many thanks in advance

An embarrassed and ashamed forum member

[Dr Sepehrara]

Hi

I am sorry to hear about your circumstances.

It is impossible to say weather you qualify for orthodontics without having a full examination. Of course you have said that you have not seen a dentist for many years. Therefore it is important that your mouth is made healthy before this approach is considered.

There are many type of treatment which are not included on the NHS and this is something you would have to look into. I think the most important thing is to look for a highly qualifed and sympathetic dentist.

Good luck!

Raha

[Dan_1]

Hi Dr Sepehrara,

I just like to say thank you for a very prompt reply. Its very refreshing to see health care professionals taking out their own personal time to reply to Joe Public. Its obvious to see that you have a passion and a genuine interest in helping people, may I ask you what experience you have in using orthodontics i.e. how many years and how many procedures you have performed?

Many thanks

[Dr Sepehrara]

Hi

I am a general dentist and particularly enjoy doing orthodontics, but am not a specialist orthodontist.

I carry out various types of orthodontic treatments, ie invisalign, inman aligner, clearstep and 6 months braces (which has just arrived in England). I am also currently taking a MSc in Orthodontics.

I hope this answers your question and I wish you the best of luck with your treatment

Regards

Raha