Orthodontics

Last updated: Wednesday 10 September 2025

General introduction

Orthodontics (Ortho meaning straight and dontics meaning teeth) is a specialised branch of dentistry that is concerned with straightening irregular teeth and jaws.

Orthodontic treatment is provided at either Warrington Hospital or Halton Hospital, Nightingale Building.

Your bite must be of a certain complexity to be treated in the hospital environment.

Such bites include those of patients with missing teeth and / or impacted teeth and patients that need a combination of braces and jaw surgery. A number of routine cases will be seen in the department for teaching purposes.

Our department is open Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm.

How to access this service

Your dentist will refer you to the Orthodontic Department if they think that you need orthodontic treatment.

When your dentist refers you, you will be asked to liaise with the reception staff to arrange a new patient clinic appointment that is convenient for you. This may be based at either Warrington Hospital or Halton Hospital, Nightingale Building. It is important that you check your letter carefully so that you don’t attend the wrong clinic.

At your initial appointment you will have an orthodontic assessment which is very similar to a dental check up that you have at your dentist. The team will take a look at your teeth and jaws and may take an X-ray image.

Following the assessment you will either:

be discharged from the Orthodontic Department and referred back to your dentist or an orthodontist in a dental practice setting
receive another appointment to discuss your treatment further
be added to the waiting list to start orthodontic treatment

In all cases a detailed diagnosis and treatment plan will be sent back to your dentist. A copy of this will be sent to you or your parent / guardian. You will also be given information leaflets to take away with you if you need any further information.

About the team

The clinical team provides innovative orthodontic treatment for patients with complex orthodontic needs that would normally not be provided in a practice setting. The clinical team is supported by a dedicated team of dental care professionals.