Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that commencing orthodontic treatment can be associated with many valid questions. Whether you’re considering braces, clear aligners, early treatment for your child, or simply want to know what to expect during your orthodontic journey, our frequently asked questions are here to help.
Browse the answers below to learn more about treatment options, appointments, costs, oral hygiene and life with braces or aligners. If you can’t find the information you’re looking for, our friendly team is always happy to assist.
If you’re wondering whether you need braces, the best step is to book a consultation with a specialist orthodontist. They can assess your teeth, bite and jaw alignment to recommend the right orthodontic treatment, including braces or aligners.
Common signs you may need braces or orthodontic treatment include:
– Crooked or crowded teeth
– Gaps between teeth
– Jaw pain or clicking
– Difficulty chewing
– An overbite, underbite, or crossbite.
A dentist provides general dental care, including check-ups, hygiene cleans fillings and preventive care to help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
A specialist orthodontist is a registered dental specialist who focuses on diagnosing, preventing and treating problems with crooked teeth, bite issues, jaw alignment and facial development. Orthodontists provide treatments such as braces and clear aligners to help create a healthier, straighter smile.
All orthodontists are qualified dentists first, but to become a specialist orthodontist in Australia, they complete an additional three years of full-time specialist university training after their dental degree. This advanced training focuses on tooth movement, facial growth and bite correction. AHPRA describe orthodontists as dental specialists with additional recognised training and specialist registration.
It is important to continue seeing your dentist for regular dental check-ups and general oral health care. However, if you are considering braces, aligners, or treatment for crowded teeth, overbite, underbite or jaw alignment issues, it is recommended that you see a specialist orthodontist.
The timing of orthodontic treatment is important for children because their jaws are still growing. Early orthodontic treatment can guide jaw growth, correct bite problems and reduce the need for more complex treatment later, such as jaw surgery, tooth extractions or longer treatment times.
Early treatment, also called Phase 1 orthodontic treatment, may be recommended to correct jaw development issues and reduce the risk of damage to prominent teeth. This may involve a custom-made removable plate or other orthodontic appliance designed for your child’s needs.
The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic assessment at around age 7, even if braces are not yet needed. An early check-up can identify bite, jaw or crowding concerns and help determine the best time for treatment.
Adults can also benefit from orthodontic treatment. If you are wondering whether you are too old for braces or aligners, the answer is no. Teeth can be moved into healthier, better-aligned positions at almost any age, although treatment may take a little longer than it does for children or teenagers.
Many adults choose orthodontic treatment to improve crowding, spacing, bite problems or tooth movement that has occurred over time.
No referral is needed from the dentist when booking an orthodontic consultation.
After braces are placed, within 2-3 hours you will experience some discomfort from the initial movement of teeth. The discomfort can last for a few days or up to a week, depending on everyone. Eating or drinking anything cold will help relieve the discomfort and Panadol may be needed. As braces are not a natural part of your mouth, they may initially cause a few ulcers as the tissue rubs against them. This however will subside. We do also give our patients some tips to help minimise this and avoid ulcers in some cases.
Discounts may apply for upfront payment on the commencement of treatment and when more than one family member is treated.
Treatment time with braces varies depending on your individual needs and the complexity of your case. For most patients, treatment is completed within 12 to 24 months, although some cases may take more or less time.
Your orthodontist will create a personalised treatment plan and guide you every step of the way. Following your treatment instructions carefully can also help keep things on track and deliver the best possible outcome.
Our goal is to create a smile that looks great and functions beautifully, with a healthy, balanced bite that lasts.
Early treatment to correct jaw development issues and reduce the risk of damage to prominent teeth may involve a custom-made removable plate or other orthodontic appliance designed for your child’s needs.
Teeth straightening options for teenagers and adults may include metal braces, translucent/clear braces and aligners.
To help you manage your orthodontic expenses with ease and convenience, we offer interest free in-house payment plans for orthodontic treatment, AfterPay, Discounts for those who would like to pay upfront and family and sibling discounts.
- In house payment plans for orthodontic treatment.
- Weekly, Fortnightly or Monthly Payments
- Payment plans up to 18 months
- Interest free
- AfterPay – to allow you to receive treatment immediately and pay in four interest free installments over six weeks,
- Fortnightly payments
- Pay in 4 interest free installments
- Interest free
- Discounts on upfront payment on the commencement of treatment
- Family and siblings discounts
