FAQs

A specialist orthodontist holds dual degrees in dentistry and orthodontics and is required to practice as a dentist for a number of years before embarking on further orthodontic specialty training. This additional study focuses on the growth and development of the face, jaws, teeth, occlusion (bite), biomechanics and treatment planning cases.

Specialist orthodontists dedicate their practice exclusively to orthodontics, treating everything from simple tooth alignment to resolving complex developmental and functional issues that can impact the quality of life.

An orthodontist has 4 years of specialised training after graduating as a dentist. Our orthodontist specialise in straightening teeth and ensuring ideal form and function. A dentist may see a small number of orthodontic cases per year amongst his/her other patients. A specialist orthodontist only practices orthodontics and treats significantly more orthodontic patients per year, therefore, is far more qualified and experienced.

You DO NOT need a referral to see our specialist orthodontist. All you need to do is phone to make an appointment and our friendly team will arrange everything for your initial consultation.

An orthodontic consultation is recommended if any of the following signs are present:

• Top front teeth are protruding (bucked)
• Crowded, overlapped, misplaced or extra teeth
• Excessive spaces between the teeth
• Top front teeth bite behind the bottom front teeth
• Baby teeth falling out too early or late
• The centre (midline) of the top and bottom front teeth don’t line up
• Deep bite - top front teeth cover more than 50% of the bottom front teeth
• Open bite - top & bottom front teeth don’t touch
• Cross bite - jaws that shift off centre when the teeth bite together
• Traumatic bite - lower front teeth biting up into the roof of the mouth
• Thumb or finger sucking habit
• Sinus, snoring or mouth breathing issues
• A weak or prominent chin

Most orthodontic concerns are best treated early. Our orthodontist recommend an initial assessment at 8-9 years of age. Early interceptive treatment takes advantage of facial growth and tooth eruption, making treatment less complex and time consuming.

Creating a beautiful smile is not just for children and teenagers! Many adults are now seeking orthodontic treatment as there are so many options available to help create that confident smile. Modern technology including Invisalign (clear removable aligners) and ceramic braces have allowed older patients to discreetly and successfully undertake orthodontic treatment.

Wearing braces is simple and easy with the latest technology in brackets and wires available today. We use state-of-the-art micro brackets and super elastic arch wires to minimise any discomfort. It is normal to feel discomfort after having your braces placed and following your adjustment appointments however this sensation is usually mild and short lived.

Our orthodontist have a conservative approach to removing teeth and their preference is not to remove teeth if possible. However in some instances, it is necessary to remove teeth to achieve the best outcome. This decision will only be made after careful analysis of all possible alternatives. We do not recommend the removal of teeth unless it is absolutely necessary.

By using the latest in high-tech braces systems and archwires, we schedule our orthodontic adjustments every 8-12 weeks.

When your braces are fitted, one of our friendly team members will review the types of foods that need to be avoided. Hard and sticky foods are on the top of the list. Maintaining a healthy diet is essential throughout your treatment and most foods are fine to eat if cut into smaller pieces. Most unscheduled visits, to repair broken or loose braces, can be avoided by taking care of what you eat. Damage to your braces may also increase treatment time as well as causing you inconvenience.

Apart from your initial consultation and some longer appointments, including fitting and removing appliances, which generally require at least an hour, the majority of shorter adjustment visits (15-30 minutes) can usually be scheduled before or after school.

The average “treatment” time in braces is generally 18 to 24 months. Orthodontic treatment is a team effort in which you and your orthodontist play important roles that affect the length of treatment and the quality of the final result. The length of treatment depends on a number of issues, including the severity of the case, growth, patient cooperation, keeping all appointments as scheduled and a commitment to good oral hygiene by maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

After braces are removed, retainers are placed to prevent your teeth from moving back towards their original position. There are two types of retainers, fixed (a small wire bonded behind the teeth) and an upper removable clear retainer that is worn during sleeping hours only. These retainers are custom made to fit your teeth and jaws and need to be worn strictly as instructed, to maintain your teeth in the best possible alignment.

It is very important to continue your regular checkup and clean visits with your dentist throughout your orthodontic treatment. This ensures healthy teeth and gums, which plays an important role in helping the teeth to move efficiently during orthodontic treatment.

Yes! If you play any contact sport, we recommend you protect your teeth by wearing a mouthguard. Our friendly clinic team will advise you on the best way to do this throughout your orthodontic treatment.

A quotation for your total package of care will be provided during your initial consultation. We will thoroughly discuss and explain the payment options to enable a tailored solution to suit your needs.

Our fee structure allows payments to be spread out in instalments over the period of active treatment. We offer a range of payment options by accepting Visa, Mastercard, Cheque, Cash, EFTPOS and via Electronic Funds Transfer. Our payment plans include interest free terms over the course of treatment.