Frequently asked questions

Orthodontics is a specialist branch of dentistry that focuses on correcting the overall alignment of the teeth and jaws. Well-aligned teeth can help improve bite function and oral hygiene, as well as boost your confidence and self-esteem.

A Specialist Orthodontist is a dentist who has completed additional postgraduate training in the specialist field of orthodontics. They are trained to manage a wide range of orthodontic problems with a variety of brace systems. They have passed the required postgraduate examinations in orthodontics and are registered with the General Dental Council as specialists.

A dentist is focused on general oral health, while Specialist Orthodontists focus specifically on the alignment of your teeth and jaws.

Treatment times vary depending on each case, with the average time being 18-24 months. However, teeth straightening can take between six months to over three years, depending on the severity of your problem.

Appointment frequency depends on your treatment plan, but most patients visit every 5 to 10 weeks. If you're using clear aligners, you may not need to come in as often, especially if you're using Dental Monitoring.

Your teeth may feel tender for a couple of weeks following the initial fitting of your braces, and you may experience a little soreness after your regular adjustments. This is normal and can be treated with over-the-counter pain relief.

If your orthodontic needs aren’t eligible for NHS treatment, or if you’d prefer not to wait to get started, we’re happy to explore private treatment options with you. We’ll also work with you to make payments more manageable and affordable.

Absolutely not! You’re never too old to improve your smile. Many adults choose to have orthodontic treatment later in life, and we have great discreet treatment options that are ideal for adult patients.

Once your braces or aligners come off, retainers help prevent your teeth from shifting back to where they were before treatment. We offer both removable and fixed retainers at Colchester Orthodontics Centre.

This will depend on the nature of the problem that needs correcting. Extractions are sometimes required, but we try to avoid them whenever possible. A decision can only be made after we have carried out a detailed case assessment.

Yes, but we recommend you wear a mouth guard over your brace to protect it and avoid injuries to your mouth. If you are wearing clear aligners, you can simply remove them while playing any contact sport, but remember to put them back in immediately afterwards.

Clear aligners usually have no impact on playing a musical instrument. Braces may require a bit of adjusting, but most musicians get the hang of it with a bit of practice. In some cases, orthodontic wax can help reduce irritation while playing.

Please contact our Practice Manager, Karina Fogarty, by telephone (01206 756210) or email: karina@colchesterorthodontics.co.uk