FAQs
These are some of the frequently asked questions about orthodontics.
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What is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on straightening teeth and fixing bites. Your orthodontist is a specialist dentist, who has undergone years of extra post-graduate university training in orthodontics, and is the most qualified person to diagnose and treat orthodontic problems.
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Why straighten teeth?
Straight teeth and good bites are very important so that we can function properly and look good! Crooked teeth and bad bites can lead to a whole range of dental problems, such as difficulty brushing, tooth wear and gum problems. Needless to say, a beautiful smile is a huge benefit in today’s world!
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Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?
Of course not! Many people who missed out on having their teeth straightened as a child can still benefit from treatment as an adult. Provided you have healthy teeth and gums, orthodontic treatment can be undertaken at any age to improve function and confidence.
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Will Orthodontics affect everyday life?
Generally orthodontic treatment does not affect everyday life. You can still do the things you normally do, such as work, school, sports and playing musical instruments. However, you will need to be careful about what you eat - certain hard and sticky foods are best avoided as they can break the braces or plates. Also sugary foods and drinks can cause tooth decay, and are best avoided. If you play contact sports, we recommend you wear a mouthguard over your braces to protect your teeth and lips.
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Will it hurt?
Wearing braces or plates is generally very easy. Putting braces on, or fitting a plate does not hurt and you will be pleasantly surprised by how easy it is! After each visit the teeth can be a bit tender, but this usually only lasts for a day or two. We recommend taking a headache tablet to ease any discomfort.
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How are teeth straightened?
There are many ways to straighten teeth such as with braces, Invisalign or plates. However, it differs between patients as to the best treatment option. Your Orthodontist will be able to advise what is most suitable.
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When is the best age to see an Orthodontist?
It is never too late to see an Orthodontist! We treat a huge variety of age-groups, from children as young as 8 to adults in their 60’s. However, the ideal age to see an Orthodontist is around 8 years old. Treatment usually does not start that early (unless there is a specific problem) but growth and development should be monitored to assess the ideal time for treatment.
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How long does treatment take?
Treatment times are different for everybody, as every orthodontic problem is different. Your Orthodontist will carefully assess your bite at the initial visit, and can give you some idea about the length of time.
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Do I have to wear metal braces?
Not at all! We also offer orthodontic treatment with cosmetic braces and Invisalign. The cosmetic braces that we use are tooth coloured and non-staining, giving you the benefits of a highly aesthetic and efficient treatment. Invisalign is a treatment that uses a series of clear aligners that are custom fabricated to fit you. The virtually invisible aligners gradually reposition your teeth into alignment.
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Can I have coloured braces?
Yes you can! Coloured modules can be placed over your braces, giving your braces a fresh new colour every time you see us for an appointment.
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Will I need extractions?
The majority of our patients do not require extractions. However every patient’s teeth and bite are different and extractions may be recommended to achieve the optimal bite.
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How much will treatment cost?
The cost of treatment will depend on the severity of the problem and the type of treatment that is necessary.
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Should I take out health insurance?
Health funds repay some of the cost of orthodontic treatment if you are eligible. Please carefully check the premiums, conditions and level of rebate. You should also talk to you accountant about claiming orthodontic treatment as a medical rebate when you do your tax return. You may be better off doing this rather than taking out extra health insurance.
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Do I need a referral for a consult?
No – you can contact us directly to make an appointment.
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What is retention?
Retention is the holding of the teeth in their new position after braces are removed. The device used to do this is called a retainer. Wearing a retainer allows the bone supporting the teeth to fully form around the teeth in their new positions and allows the teeth to settle into their new bite.
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How long should the retainers should be worn?
Ideally, retainers are for life. We will supervise the wearing of retainers to start with and advise you how much to wear them. After that we will recommend retainer visits on a less frequent schedule until you are confident that you can monitor your own retainer wear.
