Young patients with baby teeth present may benefit from early intervention to commence some correction before braces are placed. If this is an option then we will discuss the types of early treatment. Not all patients will benefit from early treatment and individual diagnosis and selection is important.

The majority of orthodontic problems are best corrected with braces. Braces are usually placed after 12 years of age. Braces are still the most effective and least expensive method for the majority of patients. Modern braces are small and comfortable. Teenagers often enjoy having colours. Adult patients mostly choose clear braces to be placed on the top front teeth.

Some problems are suitable for treatment with Invisalign. This involves wearing a series of clear plates called aligners. Excellent cooperation is required. Invisalign is more expensive than braces and not all orthodontic problems are suited to this method.

People of all ages, including adults, have orthodontic treatment. When to start depends on your problem. Some people are best treated when some baby teeth are still present, while others should ideally start once all the adult teeth are present. If you are not ready to start treatment, we will place you on recall. There is no fee for recall visits. While on recall we will monitor your dental development for any problems that may require earlier intervention. You should maintain your routine check-ups with your dentist while on orthodontic recall. An increasing number of adults are seeking treatment nowadays, as modern clear braces do not stain like the older styles.

Treatment duration varies considerably depending on the problem. The most common problems require 18-30 months for correction.

The account is paid over the course of the treatment. We understand orthodontic fees impact on the family budget and endeavour to be as flexible as possible. Payment can be made by cash, cheque, or credit card (all major cards are accepted). Should you have health insurance, we also work with your health insurance plan.

About every six to eight weeks is usual once we are under way. We try to give you the appointment of your choice, however, this may not always be possible if booking at short notice. Priority for after school appointments is given to students undertaking VCE.

X-rays and dental models, together with photographs, allow for the best possible treatment plan to be advised for each person.

Modern orthodontics is pain-free most of the time. There will be some soreness as the teeth start to move, usually for the first week after braces start, and for 1-2 days after adjustments. Panadol or Nurofen generally gives relief.

It is critical that toothbrushing be regular and thorough. Our hygienist will monitor and advise on toothbrushing and gum health before and during treatment. However, it must be emphasised this does not replace the need for regular check-ups with your own dentist.

If eating sugary foods, ensure to brush straight away afterwards so that the sugar does not stay on the braces. Sugar can cause decay around and under the braces.

Hard, crunchy foods, such as apples and raw carrots, can be eaten if cut into smaller pieces. Otherwise, they can knock off the braces or break the wires.

Regular dental check-ups with your family dentist are essential. Orthodontic clinics do not do check ups or cleans.

This depends on the individual problem, and yes, in some cases.

There are two broad groups of surgery associated with orthodontics. The first group includes very minor procedures to the gums and the second consists of jaw (orthognathic) surgery. Most minor procedures are performed under local anaesthesia and can be completed by your dentist or a specialist periodontist.

Jaw or orthognathic surgery, as an adjunct to orthodontics, may be recommended for some patients. Here the treatment involves working in conjunction with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

Yes, with a custom moulded mouthguard.

Yes, there will be a “getting used to it” period.

Once the teeth have been corrected and the braces removed, it will be necessary to maintain the teeth in their new positions with retainer appliances. We will monitor the retainer appliances and teeth for two years after treatment.

Every effort is made to provide a long term result, and it is with this view that removal of some teeth may be recommended or jaw surgery considered. No orthodontist can provide a guarantee that the teeth will remain perfectly straight forever. All we can do is take as much care as possible. Nevertheless, it should be appreciated that the vast majority of patients obtain a very satisfying long term orthodontic result.

Yes, as for any medical/dental treatment there are risks involved in orthodontic treatment. We will provide a brochure for you that has been prepared by The Australian Society of Orthodontists.