Frequently Asked Questions

Our team of highly-trained dentists provide treatment including orthodontics, Invisalign, dental whitening, composite bonding and all aspects of general dentistry. We also offer facial aesthetics.

During your first appointment, your dentist will take the time to discuss your needs and concerns in detail, and you’ll have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have. You’ll also receive a personalised treatment plan, either printed or sent to you via email.

We recommend visiting a dentist and a hygienist at least twice a year. This ensures that any potential concerns are addressed promptly and with the proper care. During your first visit, your dentist will provide personalised recommendations on how often you should schedule appointments based on your specific needs.

We accept most major dental insurance providers and work directly with VHI. You can also use your PRSI entitlement for a subsidised examination and hygiene appointment.

For orthodontic treatments, we offer the option to spread the cost of your treatment through monthly direct debit payments to the clinic, with 0% interest. For other treatments, we work with HUMM finance, allowing you to spread the cost of your treatments over time.

Most people benefit from a cleaning every 6 months, but your hygienist may recommend more frequent visits if you have gum disease or wear braces.

A scale and polish is a routine cleaning for healthy gums. A deep cleaning (periodontal treatment) targets plaque below the gumline to treat early or moderate gum disease.

It’s usually comfortable, but if your gums are sensitive, we can use numbing gel or adapt the technique to keep you relaxed throughout your visit.

A hygiene treatment removes surface stains, making teeth appear brighter. For deeper whitening, we offer professional teeth whitening after cleaning.

Yes, you can book a hygiene appointment directly at Chatham Dental. If we notice any issues that need a dentist’s attention, we’ll arrange a review for you.

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth, gums, and smile. Treatments may include whitening, veneers, bonding, or full smile makeovers.

Most cosmetic treatments are pain-free or involve minimal discomfort. We’ll always explain what’s involved and make sure you’re comfortable throughout your treatment.

It depends on the treatment. Teeth whitening may last 6–12 months, while veneers and bonding can last several years with proper care. We’ll explain how to maintain your results.

Not always. We’ll assess your smile and let you know if Invisalign or orthodontics should come first. Many patients combine straightening with other cosmetic treatments.

Costs vary depending on the treatment and complexity. We offer transparent pricing and flexible payment plans. You’ll receive a full quote at your consultation.

Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners, while fixed braces involve brackets and wires. Invisalign is more discreet and removable, but fixed braces may be needed for complex cases.

Treatment length varies, but most patients wear Invisalign or braces for 6–18 months. We’ll give you a clear estimate at your consultation.

You may feel mild discomfort when starting treatment or switching aligners, but it usually passes quickly. We’ll show you how to manage any pressure or soreness.

Costs vary depending on your treatment type and complexity. Invisalign typically starts from €3,895. We offer free consultations and interest-free finance options.

Not at all. Many of our orthodontic patients are adults. Modern options like Invisalign make it easier than ever to straighten your teeth at any age.

Facial aesthetics covers non-surgical treatments that soften lines, relax overactive muscles, and enhance facial balance. At Chatham Dental, this includes anti-wrinkle treatment and masseter treatment.

Yes. Treatments are safe when carried out by trained clinicians using approved products. We conduct a full medical history and assessment before treatment.

Yes. Our approach is conservative and tailored. The goal is always natural, balanced results – never a frozen or overdone look.

Most facial aesthetic treatments last between 3–6 months, depending on the area treated, your metabolism, and the dose used.

Discomfort is minimal. Most patients describe it as a quick, mild sting. Treatment takes only a few minutes.

Most appointments take 15–20 minutes, including consultation and aftercare guidance.

Results typically appear within 3–5 days, with full results visible at around two weeks.

There is no downtime. You can return to normal activities straight away, though we recommend avoiding strenuous exercise, saunas, and alcohol for 24 hours.

Yes. Many patients combine aesthetic injections with cosmetic dentistry (e.g., bonding, whitening) as part of a full smile and facial harmony plan.

You may not be suitable if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have certain medical conditions, or have had previous adverse reactions to injectable treatments. A full assessment is carried out before treatment.

Numbing the Area
Local anaesthetic is used to numb the tooth and the surrounding area so you don’t feel pain during the procedure.

At Chatham Dental, we use heated anaesthetics. Studies have shown that warming the anaesthetic solution to body temperature or slightly higher can significantly reduce pain felt during a treatment.

1. Rubber dam placement:
A rubber dam is a thin, flexible sheet used to isolate one or more teeth from the rest of your mouth during treatment. It keeps the area dry and free from saliva for a cleaner, more controlled procedure.

A small, comfortable clamp is placed around the tooth being treated to anchor the rubber dam. You may feel light pressure. The dam is stretched over the clamp and placed on a frame around your mouth. You can choose to use a bite block, which you can rest your jaw on so you don’t have to hold your mouth open.

You can breathe normally through your nose, and while speaking is limited, you can still communicate with the dental team using hand signals or short phrases. It may feel a bit odd at first, like something is resting on your lips or cheeks, but most patients adjust quickly – and nearly all of our patients prefer treatment with the rubber dam on.

The rubber dam keeps your tooth dry and clean, which helps materials bond properly and prevents bacteria from entering the treatment area. It also protects your tongue and cheeks from instruments, and stops you from swallowing water or debris.

2. Decay Removal
The dentist uses a drill to remove the decayed part of the tooth.

3. Cleaning
The cavity is cleaned to remove bacteria and debris before the filling is placed.
4. Filling Placement
The dentist fills the cavity with a tooth-coloured composite material, shaping it to match your bite. At Chatham Dental, we use heated composite as studies indicate that heating can increase the micro hardness and strength of the composite, making it more resistant to wear and tear.

5. Hardening the Filling
A special light is used to set the material.

6. The dam and clamp are removed gently.

7. Bite Check & Polishing
The dentist checks your bite and polishes the filling for a smooth finish.

1. Numbness for a Few Hours
Your mouth may stay numb for 1–3 hours after the appointment.

2. Mild Sensitivity or Soreness
It’s common to feel some sensitivity to pressure, cold, or heat for a few days. This should improve over time.

3. Eating & Drinking
You may be advised to wait until the numbness wears off before eating to avoid biting your cheek or tongue.

Most composite fillings last 7–12 years depending on the size and location. Good oral hygiene and regular check-ups help extend their lifespan.

Yes. Composite materials are widely used, tooth-coloured, and mercury-free. They bond securely to the tooth and are suitable for most patients.

No. Composite fillings are matched to your natural tooth colour and blend in seamlessly, unlike silver amalgam fillings.

The procedure is pain-free thanks to local anaesthetic. You may feel mild sensitivity afterward, which usually settles within a few days.

It’s uncommon, but fillings can become loose if the tooth is heavily damaged or if decay develops again. We’ll advise you on how to protect your restoration.

You should wait until the numbness wears off to avoid biting your cheek or tongue. After that, you can eat normally.

Small to medium cavities are ideal for composite. For larger areas, we may recommend an onlay or crown for better strength.

The first appointment: Tooth preparation and temporary crown/onlay

Tooth reshaping: The tooth is gently filed down to make space for the crown or onlay. If there’s a lot of missing structure, the tooth may be built up with filling material first.
Impressions: A digital scan is taken to create your custom crown or onlay.
Temporary crown: A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while the final one is being made (usually in 2-3 weeks).
Bite check and instructions: The dentist will check that your bite feels right and give you aftercare advice for the temporary crown or onlay.
This appointment can take 60-90 minutes.

The second appointment: Fitting the permanent crown

The temporary crown or onlay is removed.
The permanent crown or onlay is checked for fit, shape, and colour.
Once you’re happy, the crown is cemented in place with dental adhesive.
The dentist checks your bite and makes final adjustments to ensure it feels comfortable and natural.
This appointment can take 30-60 minutes.

An onlay covers the damaged portion of the tooth, while a crown covers the entire tooth. Onlays are more conservative and require less removal of healthy tooth structure.

Onlays typically last 10–15 years or more with good oral hygiene and regular check-ups.

No. The area is fully numbed, and most patients feel only mild pressure. Some sensitivity afterward is normal and temporary.

Fillings work for smaller cavities. If the cavity or damage covers a larger surface, a filling may not be strong enough. An onlay restores strength and prevents fractures.

Most onlays are made from porcelain or composite resin that matches the natural colour of your tooth. They are durable and aesthetically natural.

It’s rare, but it can happen if the tooth is heavily worn or if decay develops underneath. If it comes loose, we can usually rebond or replace it.

Brush and floss normally, attend regular check-ups, and avoid chewing very hard foods on the area for the first 24 hours. After that, your onlay functions like a natural tooth.

The first appointment: Tooth preparation and temporary crown/onlay

Tooth reshaping: The tooth is gently filed down to make space for the crown or onlay. If there’s a lot of missing structure, the tooth may be built up with filling material first.
Impressions: A digital scan is taken to create your custom crown or onlay.
Temporary crown: A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while the final one is being made (usually in 2-3 weeks).
Bite check and instructions: The dentist will check that your bite feels right and give you aftercare advice for the temporary crown or onlay.
This appointment can take 60-90 minutes.

The second appointment: Fitting the permanent crown

The temporary crown or onlay is removed.
The permanent crown or onlay is checked for fit, shape, and colour.
Once you’re happy, the crown is cemented in place with dental adhesive.
The dentist checks your bite and makes final adjustments to ensure it feels comfortable and natural.
This appointment can take 30-60 minutes.

Most crowns last 10–15 years or more with good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.

No. The tooth is fully numbed during preparation and fitting. Some mild sensitivity afterward is normal and temporary.

Crowns are recommended when a tooth is too damaged or weak to support a smaller restoration. They provide full coverage and long-term protection.

Most crowns are made from porcelain or ceramic materials that match your tooth colour. They are strong, durable, and highly aesthetic.

It’s uncommon, but a crown can become loose if the underlying tooth changes or if the cement weakens. We can usually re-cement or replace it.

Yes. Once the crown is fully bonded, you can eat normally. Avoid chewing on very hard objects (like ice) to protect the restoration.

Brush and floss as normal, use fluoride toothpaste, and attend regular check-ups. Good hygiene helps protect the tooth under the crown.

Root canal treatment has a reputation for being painful, but with modern anaesthetics and techniques, most patients report little to no discomfort during the procedure. Any discomfort afterwards is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.

Signs that you may need a root canal include severe tooth pain, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling in the gums, or a darkening of the tooth. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to book in with one of our dentists for an assessment.

Root canal treatment typically takes one to two hours, depending on the complexity of the case. More complex cases may require multiple visits.

In most cases, a crown is recommended to restore the tooth and protect it from further damage. A crown helps to strengthen the tooth and restore its function for chewing.

Without root canal treatment, the infection or inflammation in the tooth could worsen, leading to more severe pain, abscesses, or even the loss of the tooth. Root canal treatment is the best option to save the tooth and relieve pain.

To save your tooth: Root canal treatment can prevent the need for tooth extraction by keeping your natural tooth, which is always the first option for maintaining your long-term oral health.
Pain relief: The procedure can help eliminate the severe tooth pain caused by infection or inflammation inside the tooth.
Function and comfort: After treatment, the tooth is restored to full function, allowing you to eat, chew, and speak comfortably without the pain caused by infection.

At Chatham Dental, root canal treatment is performed by Dr Raymond Power, a highly skilled and trained endodontist who specialises in treating the inside of teeth. Here’s how the procedure typically works:

Examination and diagnosis: We thoroughly examine your tooth using X-rays to assess the extent of the infection or damage and develop an accurate diagnosis.
Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia will be administered to numb the area around the affected tooth to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. At Chatham Dental, we use heated anaesthetic as studies have shown that warming the anaesthetic solution to body temperature or slightly higher can significantly reduce pain felt during an injection.
Rubber dam placement: A rubber dam is a thin, flexible sheet that isolates one or more teeth from the rest of your mouth during treatment. For a cleaner, more controlled procedure, it keeps the area dry and free from saliva. A small, comfortable clamp is placed around the tooth being treated to anchor the rubber dam. You may feel light pressure. The dam is stretched over the clamp and put around your mouth. You can choose to use a bite block to rest your jaw on so you don’t have to hold your mouth open. You can breathe normally through your nose, and while speaking is limited, you can still communicate with the dental team using hand signals or short phrases. It may feel odd, like something is resting on your lips or cheeks, but most patients adjust quickly. Nearly all of our patients prefer treatment with the rubber dam on. The rubber dam protects your tooth, dries it, and keeps it clean, which helps materials bond properly and prevents bacteria from entering the treatment area. It protects your tongue and cheeks from instruments and stops you from swallowing water or debris.
Removing the infected tissue: The dentist will create a small opening in the crown of your tooth to access the pulp and remove the infected or damaged tissue.
Cleaning and Shaping: After removing the pulp, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and shaped to prepare it for sealing. The dentist will use specialised tools to thoroughly clean the space to remove any bacteria.
Sealing the tooth: The empty space inside the tooth is filled with a biocompatible material to seal it. In many cases, a crown may be needed on top of the tooth to provide additional strength and restore the tooth’s natural appearance and function.
Post-treatment care: The dentist will provide aftercare instructions to ensure your healing process is as smooth as possible. Any discomfort following the procedure is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.

With modern anaesthetic and techniques, most patients feel little to no discomfort during treatment. Mild tenderness afterward is normal and temporary.

Symptoms include severe toothache, lingering sensitivity to heat or cold, swelling, tenderness when biting, or a darkened tooth. A dental assessment confirms the diagnosis.

Root canal treatment typically takes one to two hours, depending on the complexity of the case. More complex cases may require multiple visits.

In most cases, yes. A crown restores strength and protects the tooth long-term, especially if the tooth was heavily damaged.

Keeping your natural tooth is always the best long-term option. Extraction creates other issues, including bone loss and the need for replacement options like implants.

Root canal treatment has a very high success rate, especially when carried out by a trained endodontist.

Reinfection is rare, but it can occur if the tooth is not restored properly or new decay develops. Regular check-ups help prevent this.

Delaying treatment allows the infection to spread, causing increased pain, swelling, or even tooth loss.

You can eat once the numbness wears off, but stick to softer foods for the first 24 hours and avoid chewing directly on the treated tooth until it’s permanently restored.

There may be mild sensitivity for a few days. Once your crown or permanent restoration is in place, it should feel and function like a normal tooth.

A simple extraction typically takes 20 to 40 minutes, while a surgical extraction may take 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the tooth removal.

Most people feel significantly better within 2–3 days, but full healing of the gum and bone can take 1–2 weeks (or longer for surgical extractions or the removal of wisdom teeth).

Yes, mild to moderate pain and swelling are normal, especially in the first 24–72 hours. Pain should gradually improve. Severe or worsening pain may indicate complications like dry socket.

A dry socket occurs when the blood clot is lost or fails to form properly, exposing the bone and nerves. It’s very painful and can cause a delay in healing.

To prevent it:

Don’t smoke or use straws
Avoid spitting or vigorous rinsing for 24 hours
Follow all aftercare instructions carefully

You can eat once the numbness wears off, usually a few hours after the procedure. Start with soft, cool foods and chew on the opposite side of the mouth.

Mild discomfort, a visible clot, and reduced swelling over several days are signs of normal healing. If pain increases after 3–4 days or you notice bad breath or discharge, please contact us.

No. Smoking and alcohol can delay healing and increase the risk of dry socket. Avoid both for at least 72 hours, preferably for a longer period.

Yes, for simple extractions. But if you had a
difficult or surgical extraction (like wisdom teeth), it’s best to rest for at least 1–2 days.

Teeth may need removal due to severe decay, infection, fractures, gum disease, overcrowding, or impacted wisdom teeth.

Yes. We only recommend extraction when the tooth cannot be saved through treatments like fillings, crowns, or root canal therapy.

A simple extraction removes a tooth that is visible above the gum. A surgical extraction is used for broken, impacted, or partially erupted teeth.

You’ll feel pressure, but you shouldn’t feel pain. The area is fully numbed with local anaesthetic before the extraction begins.

Many patients return to work the next day. If you have a surgical extraction or a physically demanding job, you may need more time.

Yes, if you’ve had local anaesthetic only. If sedation was used, you’ll need someone to drive you home.

Apply a cold compress for the first 24 hours in 10–15 minute intervals. This helps minimise swelling and discomfort.

You can brush gently the same day, avoiding the extraction site. After 24 hours, you can rinse gently with warm salt water.

Bite firmly on gauze or a damp tea bag for 30 minutes. If bleeding continues after 2–3 hours, contact us.

If you experience worsening pain after 3–4 days, persistent bleeding, bad breath, swelling that increases, or a fever, please get in touch.

Most people benefit from a hygiene visit every 6 months. If you’re prone to gum disease or heavy tartar build-up, we may recommend more frequent visits.

Cleanings shouldn’t be painful. We use warm water and gentle airflow polishing to reduce sensitivity and keep you comfortable.

Hygiene cleanings remove surface stains caused by food, drinks, and smoking. For deeper or long-term whitening, we may recommend professional teeth whitening.

Yes. Even with excellent brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar, which only a hygienist can remove.

Airflow is a modern cleaning technique that uses warm water, air, and fine powder to remove biofilm and stains gently and effectively.

Yes. Removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria is one of the most effective ways to manage bad breath.

Absolutely. Hygiene care is safe and recommended during pregnancy to reduce gum inflammation.

We’ll create a personalised care plan, which may include deeper periodontal cleaning or more frequent hygiene visits.

Yes. Special techniques are used to clean around implants, Invisalign attachments, and braces effectively.

Mild bleeding can happen if gums are inflamed. With regular cleanings and good home care, this improves over time.

Early signs include bleeding gums, bad breath, soreness, redness, and gums that look swollen or puffy.

Most patients feel only mild discomfort. We use warm-water ultrasonic cleaning and gentle techniques to keep treatment as comfortable as possible.

This depends on the severity of your gum disease. Mild cases may need one or two sessions, while more advanced cases may require multiple visits and ongoing maintenance.

Periodontal treatment helps stop further bone and gum loss, but lost gum tissue does not typically grow back. The goal is to stabilise the condition and prevent progression.

A hygiene clean focuses on routine care above the gumline. Periodontal treatment cleans deeper areas below the gumline where gum disease develops.

Most patients notice reduced bleeding and fresher breath within 1–2 weeks. Deeper pocket healing is evaluated at follow-up visits.

Yes, untreated gum disease can damage the bone and tissues that support your teeth. Early treatment helps prevent tooth loss.

While advanced gum disease can’t be reversed, it can be effectively managed and stabilised with regular treatment and good home care.

Avoid smoking, hard foods, and vigorous brushing for the first 24–48 hours. Follow your personalised aftercare plan.

Many patients benefit from maintenance every 3–4 months to keep gum disease under control.

With proper care, porcelain veneers typically last 10 to 15 years—sometimes even longer.

Yes. Porcelain closely mimics the look and translucency of natural tooth enamel, so veneers are designed to blend seamlessly with your smile.

Most patients experience little to no discomfort. Some enamel is removed during preparation, and local anaesthesia is usually used. Temporary sensitivity after the procedure is normal.

Yes. Since a small amount of enamel is removed, the procedure is not reversible, and you will always need some form of covering on those teeth.

It depends on your smile goals. Some people get a single veneer, while others opt for 4–10 veneers on the top front teeth for a full smile makeover.

Porcelain is stain-resistant, so veneers won’t discolor as easily as natural teeth.

Yes, you can eat most foods as usual. That said, you should avoid biting into very hard items (ice, pens, fingernails) to prevent damage.

No special products are needed. Just maintain good oral hygiene—brushing twice daily, flossing, and attending regular dental checkups.

Depending on your needs, alternatives include composite bonding, teeth whitening, orthodontics, or crowns.

With proper care, veneers typically last 10–15 years and sometimes longer.

Yes. Porcelain mimics natural enamel, giving veneers a lifelike appearance.

Most patients feel little to no discomfort; mild sensitivity is normal afterwards.

Yes. A small amount of enamel is removed, so veneers are a long-term commitment.

It depends on your smile. Some people need one, others a full set across the front teeth.

Porcelain is stain-resistant, so veneers stay brighter for longer.

If you grind your teeth, you may still be a candidate, but a night guard is usually recommended to protect your veneers.

Veneers can improve the appearance of mild misalignment. For more significant crowding, Invisalign may be recommended first.

No. Brush, floss, and attend regular check-ups as normal. Avoid biting hard objects like ice or pens.

Most patients adjust immediately. Any minor changes in speech disappear within a few days.

Yes, when done correctly under the supervision of a dentist or using approved products, dental whitening is safe. It does not damage your teeth.

The effects of dental whitening can last anywhere from a few months to up to 2-3 years, depending on your diet, oral hygiene habits, and lifestyle choices (like smoking or drinking coffee).

At-home treatments can take several days to weeks, depending on the product and method used. The average treatment time is 14 days.

Some people may experience temporary sensitivity or gum irritation. These effects usually subside after a short period, but if they persist, it’s important to let us know.

Dental whitening is effective on surface stains caused by food, drinks, or smoking, but it may not fully eliminate deep or internal stains, such as those caused by trauma or certain medications.

Yes, but we may recommend a lower-strength gel or shorter wear time. Sensitivity is usually temporary and manageable.

Often yes. Removing plaque and tartar helps the gel work more evenly and improves your final result.

Yes. Whitening can be done before, during, or after Invisalign, but we’ll advise on the best timing for your case.

Avoid dark or acidic drinks for at least 48 hours, as teeth are more prone to staining during this period.

Yes. Most patients complete whitening in 10–14 days, so starting two weeks before weddings, graduations, or photoshoots works well.

With proper care, composite bonding can last 3 to 5 years or longer. Avoiding habits like nail biting, chewing on pens, or opening packages with your teeth helps prolong its life.

No, bonding is typically painless and often doesn’t require anaesthesia unless it’s used to fill a cavity or repair tooth damage near a nerve.

Your dentist will take the time to discuss your needs and concerns, whether it’s chipped teeth, gaps, or reshaping. You’ll also discuss your cosmetic goals and what you would like to achieve with composite bonding.

If composite bonding is a suitable option for you, your dentist will:

Explain how the procedure works.
Recommend how many teeth to treat and where.
Discuss alternative treatments if needed (e.g., veneers or whitening).
You’ll receive a personalised quote for the treatment, and the dentist will outline:

How long will the procedure take?
What will aftercare involve?
Any limitations (e.g., dietary changes, long-term durability).
If you haven’t had a dental examination recently, we will arrange this for you along with the option of a hygiene appointment, before your composite bonding appointment.

Book your free composite bonding consultation.

1. Colour Matching
Your dentist will begin by selecting a shade of composite resin that closely matches your teeth. This ensures the bonded area blends in beautifully with your smile.

2. Tooth Preparation
Most bonding procedures require little or no drilling, and in many cases, you won’t need an injection. The tooth surface is gently roughened, and a special gel is applied to help the bonding material stick securely.

3. Applying the Composite
The dentist will apply the tooth-coloured resin to your tooth and carefully shape it by hand. This step is where your new smile starts to take shape!

4. Hardening the Material
Once the resin is perfectly shaped, it is hardened using a special curing light. This only takes a few seconds per layer and makes the material strong and durable.

5. Final Touches
The bonded area is polished and smoothed to look and feel just like the rest of your teeth. The dentist will also check your bite to ensure it’s comfortable and natural.

6. Aftercare

You can eat and drink as normal after the procedure.
Avoid biting into very hard foods, biting nails or pens or opening things with your teeth.
Try to limit coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking to reduce the risk of staining, especially within the first week of getting the composite placed.
Maintain good brushing and flossing habits, and visit your dentist regularly.
If you grind your teeth, your dentist may recommend a nightguard to protect your teeth while you sleep.

Bonding usually takes between 2-3 hours and is often completed in a single visit.

Yes! Our dentists are trained to carefully sculpt the resin to your natural teeth, so the result is seamless and natural-looking.

Yes, but it’s best to avoid staining foods and drinks (like coffee, red wine, and tobacco) especially in the first week, as the material is more prone to staining than natural enamel.

Bonding can make slightly crooked or uneven teeth appear straighter, but it’s not a substitute for orthodontic treatment in more severe cases.

Brush and floss daily, attend regular dental check-ups, and avoid biting hard objects to keep your bonding in good shape.

Alternatives include porcelain veneers, crowns, or orthodontic treatments depending on your goals and the condition of your teeth.

Bonding can improve the appearance of mild misalignment, but more complex cases may require Invisalign. We’ll advise after examining your teeth.

The material can stain from coffee, tea, red wine, or smoking. Regular hygiene visits and occasional polishing help maintain the colour.

Yes. Bonding is fully reversible because it doesn’t permanently alter the underlying tooth.

Whitening gels don’t change the colour of composite resin. If you plan to whiten, we recommend doing it before bonding so the resin can match your new shade.

Yes, bonding is commonly used on front teeth. However, habits like biting nails or pens can weaken or chip the resin.

Brush and floss as normal. Gentle brushing helps maintain the polish and reduces staining.

Yes. Composite resin can be shaped to close small gaps and improve symmetry without orthodontics.

If you grind your teeth, a nightguard protects both the resin and your natural teeth.

The duration of your Invisalign® treatment depends on the complexity of your case, but most patients wear their aligners for about 6 to 12 months. Your dentist will create a personalised treatment plan to suit your needs.

Yes! Invisalign® aligners are made from smooth, BPA-free plastic, so they are generally much more comfortable than traditional metal braces. You may experience some initial discomfort as your teeth shift, but this is temporary.

No, you should remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. This helps prevent staining and ensures your aligners stay in good condition.

For the best results, you should wear your aligners for at least 22 hours per day. The more consistently you wear them, the quicker you’ll see results.

Simply rinse your aligners with lukewarm water and clean them using the Invisalign® cleaning crystals, retainer cleaning tablets or a gentle toothbrush. Avoid using hot water, as it may warp the aligners or toothpaste, and it may scratch the aligners.

Invisalign® is effective for most cases, including mild to moderate misalignments, overcrowded teeth, gaps, and bite issues. However, for more complex cases, your dentist will evaluate if Invisalign is the best treatment or if other options are needed.

Invisalign® attachments are small, tooth-colored buttons or bumps that are temporarily bonded to specific teeth during your Invisalign treatment. These attachments help the aligners grip your teeth more effectively, enabling them to apply precise pressure to move your teeth into the desired position.

Attachments come in various shapes and sizes, depending on the movements needed for your teeth, and are designed to blend in with your natural teeth, making them discreet. Once treatment is complete, the dentist will remove the attachments, leaving your teeth smooth and aligned.

Interproximal reduction (IPR) is a procedure used during orthodontic treatments, including Invisalign®, to create small amounts of space between teeth. It involves carefully sanding or filing down any amount of enamel from the sides of certain teeth. This avoids the need for extractions and allows the teeth to shift more effectively into their desired positions, improving the overall alignment and bite.

The amount of enamel removed is minimal, usually only a fraction of a millimetre, and is done carefully to avoid harming the teeth. It is a common and safe practice in orthodontics, and your dentist will monitor the process closely to ensure it doesn’t affect the tooth’s health or structure.

Yes, we offer the option to spread the cost of your treatment through monthly direct debit payments to the clinic, with 0% interest.

The duration of treatment typically lasts between 18-24 months, depending on your specific needs. Your dentist will provide a more precise timeline during your initial consultation.

You may experience some discomfort after your braces are first applied or after each adjustment. This is completely normal as your teeth begin to move. Over-the-counter pain relief can help manage any discomfort.

Yes, you can still participate in sports while wearing braces. However, it’s recommended to wear a remouldable mouth guard to protect your braces and teeth from injury.

Yes, you should avoid sticky, hard, or crunchy foods like gum, popcorn, and caramel, as they can damage the braces or get stuck in the wires.

Yes, wearing a retainer is crucial to prevent your teeth from shifting back into their original position. Retainers are typically worn full-time for a period, and then only at night.

Yes, we offer the option to spread the cost of your treatment through monthly direct debit payments to the clinic, with 0% interest.

Fixed braces work for both teens and adults. As long as teeth and gums are healthy, age is not a barrier.

Most patients return every 4–6 weeks for wire tightening or elastic changes, depending on progress.

Yes. Fixed braces are highly effective for treating overbites, underbites, crossbites, and deep bites.

Speech changes are minimal and usually temporary. Most people adjust within a few days.

You’ll need to brush more carefully and may use interdental brushes or floss threaders. Our team will show you exactly how.

Contact us as soon as possible. A loose bracket isn’t an emergency, but it should be repaired promptly to avoid delays.

Retainers are essential for maintaining results. We provide clear retainers and guidance on how often to wear them.

Braces don’t stain teeth, but plaque build-up can. Good hygiene prevents marks around brackets.

If you prefer a more discreet option, we can discuss ceramic brackets as part of your treatment plan.

A lip flip relaxes muscles to roll the lip outward (creating the illusion of fullness). Lip filler adds a gel substance to physically increase volume.

You may feel a slight difference in how your lip moves for the first few days (e.g., whistling or drinking through a straw might feel odd), but this settles quickly as you adjust.

Discomfort is minimal. It feels like a few tiny pinches and is over in seconds.

Because the mouth is a high-movement area, results typically last 2–3 months. Regular top-ups can maintain the look.

Yes. Many patients use a lip flip to shape the lip and a small amount of filler for hydration or volume.

Yes, when performed by a qualified professional. Side effects are rare but can include minor bruising or swelling at the injection site.

No. When performed correctly, the result is subtle. Your lip will still move, it just won’t lift as high, ensuring your expression remains natural.

Most patients report minimal discomfort, often described as a tiny pinch. The process is very quick.

You will start to see changes within 3–7 days, with the full result visible around the 2-week mark.

No, the effects typically last 3–4 months. Maintenance treatments are recommended to keep your smile looking its best.

This treatment works best for muscle-related gummy smiles. If the issue is skeletal or dental, we may recommend alternative options during your consultation.

There is virtually no downtime. You may have slight redness at the injection site, but you can return to work or normal activities immediately.

Most patients see results for 3–4 months. Regular maintenance keeps lines softer long-term.

You’ll start noticing improvements within 3–5 days, with full results around 10–14 days.

No. Our approach focuses on softening lines while keeping your natural facial expressions.

Most people feel only a small pinch. The procedure is quick and very well-tolerated.

Yes. There is no downtime, and you can return to normal activities immediately.

Temporary redness or small bumps can occur and usually settle within minutes.

Most treatments take around 10–15 minutes.

Injections can be used in the masseter muscles to help with clenching and teeth grinding. At Chatham Dental, this is offered as a dedicated masseter treatment. Your clinician will advise whether this is suitable for you.

Yes. Many patients combine it with treatments like teeth whitening or composite bonding as part of a wider refresh.

Avoid alcohol, aspirin, or anti-inflammatory medication 24 hours before your appointment unless advised otherwise by a doctor, and follow any instructions given by your clinician.

It helps with jaw clenching, teeth grinding (bruxism), tension headaches, jaw discomfort, and a bulky or square-looking jawline.

No. You can chew normally. The treatment only reduces excessive clenching force, not normal chewing ability.

Most patients feel improvements within 1–2 weeks, with full results after 4–6 weeks.

Effects typically last 4–6 months, depending on muscle strength and grinding habits.

Yes. As the muscle becomes less active, it gradually reduces in size, creating a slimmer and more contoured jawline.

Discomfort is minimal. Most patients describe it as a quick pinch. The entire procedure takes 15–20 minutes.

No. You can return to work or daily activities immediately.

Yes. Many patients combine both treatments for overall facial balance and to address multiple concerns at once.

Most patients return every 4–6 months. Consistent treatment can extend the time between appointments.

No. The muscle gradually becomes active again, so ongoing treatment is needed to maintain both functional and slimming benefits.