New Year, New Smile: Start 2026 With Confidence at Northern Orthodontics

A new year is the perfect moment to invest in yourself. If a straighter, healthier smile has been on your mind, we would love to help you make it happen. At Northern Orthodontics in Ashton-under-Lyne, our Specialist Orthodontist uses digital scans, AI-assisted monitoring and in-house fabrication to deliver precise, comfortable care for children, teens and adults. Whether you are considering fixed braces, Invisalign® or custom sports mouthguards for the season ahead, here is how to start 2026 with confidence.

Why Start Orthodontic Treatment In January?

January gives you a clean slate and a clear timeline. Beginning now means you can set steady habits early, track progress across the year and reach milestones in time for spring events or summer holidays. You also benefit from our digital workflow, which reduces clinic visits while keeping Specialist Orthodontist oversight.

Quick Habits That Make A Difference:

Rinse with water after snacks if you cannot brush right away.
Carry a travel brush or interdental brush for work or school.
Cut crunchy foods into small, bite-sized pieces to protect brackets.
Remove aligners for meals, brush before reinserting and store them safely.

Your Treatment Options, At A Glance

Every smile is unique. We plan your care after a full clinical assessment and 3D scan, then match treatment to your goals and lifestyle.

Fixed Metal Braces

Predictable and versatile for simple through complex cases. Modern brackets are low profile with smooth finishes for comfort.

Ceramic Braces

Tooth-coloured brackets blend with your smile for a discreet look while delivering reliable control.

Lingual Braces

Fitted behind your teeth and hidden from view, ideal if you prefer a fully concealed option.

Clear Aligners

Invisalign^® or our in-house NorthoClear aligners use near-invisible trays to straighten teeth with removable convenience.

Comfort, Convenience And Technology

We combine precision with practicality:

3D intraoral scanning replaces messy impressions and is fast and accurate.
Digital planning maps tooth movement for efficiency and comfort.
AI-assisted remote monitoring lets you submit smartphone scans between visits so we can keep treatment on track while reducing in-person appointments.
After-school and selected Saturday appointments support busy families.

Patients often tell us they feel listened to and reassured. Clear explanations, punctual appointments and quick responses are part of our everyday care.

FAQs For The New Year: Mouthguards And Costs

Many families start the year with winter training or a new sport. Protecting teeth is essential, especially if you wear braces or plan to begin orthodontic treatment.

Which Type Of Sports Mouth Guard Is Most Effective?

A custom dentist-made mouthguard offers the highest level of protection. Designed from your digital scan, it fits snugly, stays in place on impact, allows easier breathing and preserves speech. Boil-and-bite guards can be bulky, less secure and less protective, particularly if you wear braces. For comfort and safety, a custom option is best.

Can I Get A Mouthguard On The NHS?

The NHS does not usually provide sports mouthguards as a standard benefit. Some hospital or community programmes may offer them for specific medical needs, but routine sports use is generally private. We fabricate custom mouthguards in-house and can advise on the right thickness for your sport.

Can I Sleep With A Sports Mouth Guard?

Sports mouthguards are designed for impact protection during activity, not overnight wear. They can be bulky and may not support a healthy jaw position while sleeping. If you grind your teeth, a clinician-prescribed night guard is recommended. If you have braces, we will advise on safe night-time options that do not interfere with treatment or retention.

How Much Should A Mouthguard Cost From A Dentist?

Costs vary by region and design, especially if you need brace-compatible features or additional thickness. Custom mouthguards cost more than chemist options because they include professional assessment, digital scanning and precise fabrication. We provide an exact quote after assessment and advise on replacement as children grow or teeth move during treatment.

If you are organising protection for school or club sport, we can create custom mouthguards for sports using digital scans for a precise, comfortable fit.

What About Braces Or Aligners, Costs And Accessibility?

We provide both NHS and private orthodontic care. Under 18s may be eligible for NHS treatment based on clinical need. Private care offers flexible scheduling, broader appliance choice and faster starts. We also provide interest-free and flexible finance plans for eligible patients, with full pricing confirmed after assessment.

What To Expect At Your First Visit

Free Virtual Suitability Consultation

Share photos, discuss your goals and receive a preliminary view of suitable options.

In-Clinic Assessment

We take a 3D scan, assess your bite and gum health, and explain the pros and cons of each option.

Personalised Plan

You receive a clear plan outlining timelines, costs and appointment schedules, plus practical care tips so you can start smoothly.

Practical Day-One Tips:

Stock soft, brace-friendly meals for the first 48 hours if starting fixed braces.
Use orthodontic wax as needed while your cheeks adjust.
Only chew sugar-free gum if your orthodontist confirms it is safe for your appliance.
Keep an aligner case with you so trays are never wrapped in tissues or napkins.

What Patients Say

Families and adults often highlight friendly staff, clear explanations and great results. Many describe feeling supported at every step, from first scan to retainer fit. We value that trust and work hard to make treatment predictable, comfortable and worthwhile.

Make 2026 The Year You Love Your Smile

A confident smile can change how you feel at school, work and in every photo. Whether you choose fixed braces, ceramic options or Invisalign^®, our specialist-led team will guide you with clarity and care. If sport is part of your year, we will help protect your teeth with a custom mouthguard that fits your season and your smile.

Ready to start? Book your free consultation with Northern Orthodontics today and discover the best path to your 2026 smile.

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