Frequently Asked Questions

East Coast Orthodontics Model Listening to Music

The following is a list of frequently asked questions about treatment and orthodontics in general. If you have a question that hasn't been answered here, please email it to at info@eastcoastorthodontics.ie us and we will include it.

What is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a special area of dentistry that is concerned with the treatment of malocclusions (improper bites), which may be a result of tooth irregularity, disproportionate jaw relationships, or both.

Why is orthodontic treatment important?

Everyone wants a beautiful smile-and everyone should have a healthy one. The orthodontist's goal is to achieve both for the patient.

Crooked and and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain. This may contribute to conditions that cause not only tooth decay but eventual gum disease and tooth loss. Other orthodontic problems can cause abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, excess stress of supporting bone and gum tissue, or misalignment of the jaw joints with resultant chronic headaches or pain in the face or neck.

When left untreated, many orthodontic problems become worse. Treatment by a specialist to correct the original problem is often less costly than the additional dental care required to treat the more serious problems that can develop in later years.

The importance of an attractive smile should not be underestimated. A pleasing appearance is a vital asset to one's self confidence. A person's self-esteem often improves as treatment brings teeth, lips and face into harmony. In this way, orthodontic treatment can benefit social and career success as well as improving one's general attitude toward life.

When is the best time to begin treatment?

Orthodontic treatment can be started on certain types of tooth problems before all permanent teeth have erupted.

Early treatment, usually beings after the four permanent upper and lower front teeth have erupted (aged 7 to 9).

The advantages of early treatment include:

- Moving the front teeth back so they will be less susceptible to injury.
- Improving the relationship of upper and lower jaws, allowing more normal future growth and development.
- Using maximum advantage of growth for successful treatment
- Improving facial appearance and self-esteem
- Taking advantage of the good cooperation of patients at this age
- Possibly avoiding or reducing the need for further treatment when patients are older.

Is orthodontic treatment effective for adults?

Yes! Healthy teeth can be moved at any age. Many orthodontic problems can be corrected as easily for adults as for children. Orthodontic forces move teeth in the same way for both adults and children.

Many options are available today to minimise the appearance of braces. Today's appliances are smaller and sleeker, and some are next-to-invisible. We can advise you as to what options are recommended for your particular needs.

You can do almost anything during orthodontic treatment - sing, play a musical instrument, dine out, kiss and even have your picture taken. Some adjustments will be necessary, but if you're like the vast majority of adult patients, you'll adjust quickly. New techniques and materials today have made wearing braces more comfortable than ever.

Where is East Coast Orthodontics Located?

East Coast Orthodontics is located at Apt 7, Cube 1, Beacon South Quarter, Sandyford Industrial Estate, Dublin 8. Have a look at this map for further details.

What are the opening hours for each practice?

Our practice is open from 8.10am to 5pm, Monday through Wednesday.

What is the best way to get in contact?

During our opening hours, ring us in Dublin on: 697 91 84. If it outside our opening hours, send us an email at info@eastcoastorthdonotics.ie and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

How do I make a consultation appointment?

Simply give us a ring! You don't need a specific referral (although your dentist will sometimes give you one). You just need to get in contact with us and we can arrange a date. An initial visit will cost 60 Euro. Please complete a medical questionnaire online before arriving for this initial consultation.

What forms do I need to bring with me?

You need to bring a completed Medical History Form (printout of medical form). We recommend completing this form before you visit us, as it will allow you more time with the orthodontist. We also offer the option of filling out an online medical form instead of having to print it out and bring it in. (online medical form).

How can I check me appointments?

You can log into your profile by clicking the "patient login" at the top of this page, and entering your first name, second name, and password that you were assigned when you began treatment with us. If you are having problems, please get in contact with us.

What type of braces are available?

There are four main classes of braces: Metal, Ceramic, Lingual and Clear Aligners.
Metal and ceramic braces are attached to the outside of the teeth and are the type most people are familiar with. Lingual braces are attached to the back of the teeth and are therefore invisible. Clear aligners are special plastic trays that are worn on the teeth somewhat like a mouthguard. A set of 5 aligners are worn in series. Each aligner is worn for approximately 4 weeks. Have a look at our treatment page for more information.

I'm interested in invisible aligners

If you are looking for invisible aligners, please phone for a quotation as we often have special promotions on the cost of aligners and our fees are very competitive.

Will there be discomfort?

In the first week, there will be mild discomfort as your teeth get used to the braces. Once past the first week, subsequent visits do not cause much further discomfort. Over the counter pain medication is sufficient to control any discomfort.

I have further questions about life with braces?

First have a read through the information in our life with braces section for a comprehensive overview of the various stages of treatment. Also read our "living with braces" page to see if your question is answered. You can also contact us with any questions you might have using the contact form.

How much will treatment cost?

The cost depends on the type of treatment required. This will be discussed in your initial consultation. For a list of prices for the various treatment options, please have a look at our fees section.

I already have a quotation from a Northern Irish Dentist?

If you have a written quotation for treatment from a Northern Irish Orthodontist, please contact us before committing to treatment. We will do our best to try and match the fee where possible, saving you the hassle of having to travel for treatment!

How is payment made?

Payment can be made my cash, cheque, credit card or laser card. If you decide to pay up front you can avail of a 10% discount of the overall fees. Alternatively we can arrange a finance scheme that will spread the cost over the course of your treatment.

Can health insurance cover the cost?

Yes. We will complete all insurance forms for you on receipt of payment, which will allow you to recoup the cost of treatment from your insurance company.

Do you have any special promotions?

Yes! If one of your children is already receiving treatment with us, any other child in the family can be seen for a consultation at a special price of € 30. Furthermore, they can receive treatment with a 10% reduction in fees, plus start treatment at any time!

This is not all. Have a look at our special offers section to see what offers are currently running.

I have had braces fitted elsewhere and I'm looking to continue treatment?

We can normally take over your treatment started by previous orthodontists. It is helpful if you can obtain as much documentation of your case, such as photos, letters and X-rays as this will facilitate the efficient transfer of care. Please arrange to bring this documentation with you on your initial visit or ask your previous orthodontist to email your records to info@eastcoastorthodontics.ie.

Please ask your orthodontist to contact us.

Help! I need urgent care.

There are two types of dental emergencies involving orthodontics:

The first one, and the more serious, involves trauma to the face and mouth when wearing fixed appliances. It is normally a consequence of a sports injury. In these circumstances you need to contact your own dentist who will provide emergency care. Outside office hours, please contact VHI Swiftcare, or send us an email at emergency@eastcoastorthodontics.ie

The second type involves either a loose wire or a loose bracket. The brackets are the attachments that are glued to the teeth. if they come loose they are still held on the wire by rubber band and although may look strange and you can fiddle with them with your tongue. This can normally wait until the following day. If the wire is poking your cheek or gum it can be covered with wax to relieve the irritation or it can be bent out of the way. This can also normally wait until the following day.

A minority of patients, after braces are fitted, are very sensitive to pain and discomfort. Please remember that this pain and discomfort will ease and disappear after four days. In the meantime, please take Neurofen or it's equivalent on a regular basis (as per the instructions on the package) for the first four days. Drink plenty of water and confine your diet to soft foods (lots of Ice Cream!).