Frequently asked questions

No. You can register directly without a referral from your dentist. Of course you are also welcome if your dentist has referred you.

We can assess children from age 7 or 8 if there is reason to do so (for example a narrow palate or a jaw irregularity). The most common treatment start is between ages 10 and 12, when the permanent teeth have come through. We always judge individually what the right moment is.

The first consultation takes about 45 minutes. We look at the teeth and jaws, take a brief medical history and explain what we see. You will receive our findings the same day. We discuss possible treatment options together — no obligations. You can bring both parents; your child is welcome to ask questions too.

On average 18 to 24 months, but this depends on the severity of the irregularity, the type of appliance and your child's cooperation. After removing the brace there is always a retention phase of at least 2 years.

During the treatment phase every 6 to 10 weeks for a check-up. The appointments are usually short — 15 to 30 minutes. We work by appointment only, so there is rarely a wait. After the brace is removed, annual retention check-ups follow for at least 2 years.

Yes. For contact sports we recommend a custom-made mouthguard that fits over the braces. Wind instrument players may need a short adjustment period. Removable appliances are simply taken out during sports and music practice. We always give personal advice.

Hard, sticky or chewy foods are best avoided: hard bread crusts, whole apples (cut them up instead), toffees, chewing gum, nuts and raw carrots. These can bend wires or pull off brackets. Soft foods and anything cut into small pieces are fine. We give a clear overview at the fitting appointment.

Right after placement or after a tightening appointment the teeth can feel tender for a few days — especially when biting. A regular painkiller such as paracetamol helps. After 3 to 5 days this usually passes. Brackets that irritate the cheek can be covered with orthodontic wax (included in your care kit).

For children up to 18 years: orthodontics is covered by basic health insurance if the irregularity is severe enough. Severity is determined using the IOTN index. A score of 5 or higher means full coverage. A score of 4 may be partially covered by supplementary insurance. We determine the IOTN at the first consultation and explain it clearly. For adults (18 and over): basic insurance does not cover orthodontics. Some supplementary policies do cover a portion — check your policy or contact your insurer.

Orthodontic fees in the Netherlands are set by the Dutch Healthcare Authority (NZa). All orthodontists charge the same maximum rates. You will never pay more than legally permitted. You can find the current rates on the NZa website. We always provide a cost estimate with the treatment plan.

After removing the brace we immediately fit retainers. These are often a fixed wire behind the upper and lower front teeth and/or a removable retainer for night-time use. Retention is essential — teeth naturally tend to drift back. The retention phase lasts at least 2 years, with annual check-ups.

Call us during opening hours on 070 000 00 00. For a protruding wire: carefully bend it away from the cheek with a pencil eraser or cover it with orthodontic wax. For a loose bracket: leave it on the wire and call us. For a broken removable appliance or retainer: keep the pieces and call us. Outside opening hours, contact your own dentist or the dental emergency service in The Hague.