Orthodontic FAQs

We always do our best to avoid tooth extractions where possible. If they are necessary for your treatment, tooth extractions will be carried out by your general dentist. Our specialists will help talk you through your options and ensure you’re informed at every step of the process. 
 

No, age is not a factor! We have many adult patients who have achieved beautiful results at Chesterfield Orthodontics. We even have discreet treatments for adults from clear ceramic braces to hidden lingual braces to virtually invisible Invisalign® clear aligners. 
 

Yes, it’s especially important for you to continue to see your dentist regularly while receiving orthodontic treatment. This will help to ensure your teeth remain clean and healthy throughout your treatment.
 

Yes!  You can protect your smile and appliance by wearing a sports mouthguard. As for musical instruments, you may need a few days to adjust to your appliance, but it shouldn’t affect your playing afterwards. If needed, brace covers can be provided to prevent discomfort. 
 

Teeth don’t like change and will relapse if not stabilised. Wearing your retainers is the best insurance that your new smile lasts a lifetime. You will start by wearing your retainers all the time, and then can move to night-time only wear when instructed. 
 

We recommend that you arrive 10 minutes before your appointment as there will be new patient registration forms to complete. Please bring a list of current medications to the appointment.

When you arrive one of our reception team will check you in, hand you the forms and direct you to the appropriate waiting room. When we are ready we will call you through into one of our clinical rooms and you will meet your orthodontist.

You will have a discussion with your orthodontist about your concerns, and they will then take a series of measurements to complete the NHS orthodontic assessment. The orthodontist will then discuss if you are eligible for treatment, what this treatment is likely to include, and the possible timeframe before starting active treatment.

Generally the only equipment we will use at a new patient appointment is a mirror and a ruler. Sometimes it may be necessary to have an X-ray and photos taken of your teeth at this initial appointment, however our team will always talk you through and answer any questions before we start. These additional records will be carried out by our clinical team of orthodontic therapists and nurses on request from the orthodontist.