Practice News

When you visit an orthodontist, you may be advised to have specialist X-rays taken as part of your assessment. Two of the most common types are OPG and CEPH X-rays. While they might sound technical, they play avital role in planning safe, accurate, and effective orthodontic treatment.

If you are searching for MARPE treatment in Manchester, you may have come across Aligned Orthodontics as one of the few practices offering this advanced option. Before assuming MARPE is necessary, it is important to understand when it is truly needed and when it is not. Below, we answer the most common questions about MARPE at Aligned Orthodontics, including alternatives such as aligners and braces. *The images in this post have all been achieved without using MARPE and braces alone.

If you or your child has been told palatal expansion is needed, you may hear terms like RME, MARPE, TADs, and different types of braces. It can sound overwhelming but these tools all work together to create a healthier bite and a wider, more balanced smile. So how do they work and why are some patients told they need more than just braces?

When treating a narrow upper jaw (maxillary constriction), orthodontic expansion can significantly improve bite, breathing and overall oral health. Three commonly discussed approaches are RME, MARPE and SARPE. While they all aim to widen the upper jaw, they differ in how they work, who they are suitable for, and where the treatment is carried out. 

Choosing the right type of braces is an important step in planning your orthodontic treatment. Each option offers unique advantages, along with factors worth thinking through before making a decision. At Aligned Orthodontics, we provide a range of solutions to suit different needs, lifestyles, and treatment goals. Below is a detailed overview to help you make an informed choice.

Angel Aligners are a modern clear-aligner system designed to straighten teeth discreetly and comfortably. In this blog, we answered common patient questions about what makes Angel Aligners different from other leading brands. Their smooth, polished edges, natural-looking material, and dual-aligner technology offer a comfortable and effective alternative for a wide range of orthodontic needs. With strong aesthetics, predictable tooth movement, and good value, Angel Aligners are becoming a popular choice for patients seeking a nearly invisible way to improve their smile.

We are thrilled to announce that our practice has partnered with Retainers4Life, making it easier than ever for our patients to maintain their beautiful smiles. Retainers4Life allows us to provide you with high-quality, custom retainers using digital scans of your teeth. This means you can order replacements quickly and conveniently, without needing to return to the practice for every new set.

Learn how to prepare your teeth and gums for braces with excellent oral hygiene, calculus removal, and periodontal care. Protect your gums and ensure a safe, successful orthodontic treatment. Starting braces is an exciting step toward a straighter, healthier smile. Oral health preparation ensures that your teeth and gums are healthy, reduces the risk of complications, and allows for safe, effective tooth movement.

If your child’s orthodontist has recommended a rapid maxillary expander (RME), you might be wondering what it is, how it works, and what changes you can expect to see. Let’s take a closer look at this gentle, effective treatment and how it supports your child’s natural growth and smile development.

Getting braces is one of the best investments you can make in your smile, but if you’re new to orthodontic treatment, you probably have a lot of questions. Whether you’re a parent preparing your teen or an adult thinking about straightening your teeth, understanding what to expect can make the journey much smoother. At Aligned Orthodontics in Manchester, we hear these questions every day from patients starting their treatment. Here’s everything you need to know before, during, and after getting braces.

When considering braces or clear aligners, one of the most common concerns is: “Will I need to have teeth removed?” The thought of extractions can feel worrying, but the truth is this: teeth are only removed if clinically necessary.

It can be worrying if your braces don’t feel right or if you’re not seeing the results you hoped for. Many patients think they have to continue just because they’ve already invested time and money, but that’s not always the best choice.

Interproximal Reduction, or IPR, is a simple and safe orthodontic procedure where your orthodontist gently reshapes the sides of your teeth. By polishing away a tiny amount of enamel (often less than the thickness of a fingernail), space is created so your teeth can move into a healthier, straighter position.

Back-to-school season is exciting, new classes, fresh supplies, and the chance to reconnect with friends. But if you or your child recently got braces, heading back to school can feel a little different. The good news? With a few smart strategies, you can rock your braces with confidence and keep your smile healthy all year long.

You’ve invested time, care, and effort into achieving your dream smile, now it’s time to protect it. After orthodontic treatment, whether through Invisalign® or traditional braces, retainers are essential to keep your teeth beautifully aligned. That’s where Vivera retainers come in.

If you’ve been looking into orthodontic care in Manchester, chances are you’ve come across the name Dr Anika Maini. As the Principal Specialist Orthodontist at Aligned Orthodontics in Swinton, Dr Maini has built a reputation for clinical excellence, compassionate care, and results that transform not only smiles but also confidence.

We are delighted to welcome you to our practice. This page will guide you through what to expect at your first visit, the treatment options available, and the differences between NHS and private orthodontic care.

So, you’ve decided to straighten your teeth, that’s a big (and exciting!) first step. But now you’re faced with a new question: Which type of braces should I choose? From traditional metal braces to invisible aligners and behind-the-teeth options, each type has its strengths, and its limitations. To help you decide, we’ve broken down the comparisons of the most popular orthodontic treatments.

If you’re considering braces or aligners, one of the first questions you probably have is: “How much will it cost?” At our clinic, we believe in specialist orthodontic care with fully transparent pricing, so there are no hidden fees, no surprises, and everything is clearly explained before you begin your treatment. Whether you're looking for traditional metal braces, discreet aligners, or cutting-edge lingual options, here's everything you need to know about what’s included, and what you can expect to pay.

Getting braces or aligners is a big step toward a healthier, straighter smile, but it's not just about straightening teeth. Keeping your mouth clean and healthy during treatment is just as important as moving your teeth. So… how do you maintain great oral hygiene when your mouth is full of wires, brackets, or plastic trays? Let’s break it down ,and ask a few important questions along the way.

One of the most fascinating advancements in recent years is the use of mini screws, also known as Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs). If your orthodontist has recommended them, you might be wondering: What are they? Do they hurt? Are they really necessary?

So, you’ve just had your braces removed, congratulations! That moment when you finally see your straight smile is exciting. But the truth is, the work isn’t over yet. To keep your teeth in their new positions, your retainers are now the most important part of your orthodontic journey.

Aligned Orthodontics delivers specialist orthodontic treatments with straight forward pricing, excellent clinical care, and flexible finance options. Whether you're seeking traditional braces or the most discreet solutions, their fees are clear and all-inclusive.

Understanding the NHS orthodontic referral process is crucial for general dental practitioners aiming to provide optimal care for their patients. In Greater Manchester, the pathway typically involves assessing the patient's eligibility based on clinical need. GDPs should utilize the NHS e-Referral Service to submit referrals electronically, ensuring accurate and timely processing. It's essential to include comprehensive clinical notes, radiographs, and any relevant medical history to support the referral. Additionally, staying informed about the latest local commissioning policies and guidelines can aid in determining which cases are likely to be accepted for NHS-funded orthodontic treatment.

Finding an NHS dentist who is currently accepting new patients in Manchester can be challenging due to high demand and limited availability. However, some practices still open their doors periodically for new NHS patients, including both adults and children.

If you’re thinking about getting braces but don’t currently have a dentist, you might be wondering whether it’s still possible to start treatment. In this blog, we explain why having a general dentist is important for your oral health during orthodontics, how dentists and orthodontists work together, and what steps you can take if you’re not registered with one. From managing routine check-ups to ensuring your teeth and gums are healthy before braces, we’ll guide you through how to get started, even if you’re not yet on a dentist’s list.

When starting orthodontic treatment, it’s natural to wonder what’s included in your plan. In this blog, we explain how most treatment packages cover routine appointments, adjustments, and emergency visits for breakages, plus whether retainers are part of the package or an additional cost. We break down why retainers are essential for maintaining your results, how many are typically provided, and what happens if you need replacements. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect so there are no surprises along your smile journey.

Your wedding day is one of life’s most photographed moments, and your smile will be in nearly every shot. In this blog, we share how orthodontic treatments, from discreet braces to clear aligners, can help you feel confident and radiant when you say “I do.” We’ll discuss treatment timelines for brides and grooms-to-be. Whether your big day is months away or just around the corner, it’s never too late to give your smile the attention it deserves.

Many parents wonder when their child should first see an orthodontist. In this blog, we explain why the ideal time for an initial assessment is usually around age 7–9, when adult teeth are starting to come through but the jaw is still developing. We cover the benefits of early evaluation, how it can identify potential issues before they become more complex, and why some children may need to start treatment earlier or later. The goal is to give parents peace of mind and the best chance for their child to have a healthy, confident smile.

We’re thrilled to share that our practice has been named one of the Three Best Rated orthodontic practices in Manchester! This recognition is based on a thorough review of reputation, patient satisfaction, service quality, and dedication to excellence in orthodontic care.