How do I know if I need braces or clear aligners?

Private orthodontic care usually does not require a referral. You can contact a practice directly or start with an online assessment. NHS orthodontic referral routes vary and are usually based on age, dental development and treatment need. Your regular dentist can still be a useful starting point, since they know your dental history and can flag gum or decay problems that need treating first. For NHS treatment the route normally runs through a dentist, who checks the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need before referring you on to an NHS orthodontic service.

Ask what problem is being treated, which appliances are suitable, how long treatment may take, what is included in the fee, how refinements work, how emergencies are handled, and what retainer plan is needed after treatment. It also helps to ask who will carry out the treatment and whether they are on the General Dental Council specialist list for orthodontics, what happens if treatment takes longer than planned, and whether there is a written treatment plan and itemised fee before you commit.