Frquently Asked Questions
Here You Can Find Any Possible Answers to Your Questions
Yes. We recommend that you see your dentist for a complete checkup before, during and after your orthodontic treatment as per your normal 6 monthly or 12 monthly routine. They will deal specifically with your general dental needs.
- You don’t like the look of your smile.
- Your teeth are crooked.
- You have gaps between your teeth.
- Your upper and or lower teeth stick out.
- Your upper and lower front teeth cannot touch each other when the back teeth bite together.
- Your teeth show signs of wear.
- You have difficult chewing.
- You don’t like the look of your jaws.
An Orthodontist is a dentist that has undertaken an approved post graduate university course (Full time for three years) which makes them registrable with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. This makes them a Specialist in orthodontics – Similar to how a GP doctor is different to a heart doctor (Cardiologist).
Specialist orthodontists ONLY practice orthodontics which give them the necessary skills and experience to be the most qualified professional to straighten teeth and jaws.
Dr Riley, Dr. McGlade, Dr. D’Adamo, Dr. Shastri and Dr. Kang are all Registered specialist Specialist Orthodontists. To check if a practitioner is a reistered specialist, you may check the AHPRA website here.
Orthodontic treatment can be started at any age.
We strongly recommend that the first consultation is at about 7 or 8 years of age. This allows any simple intervention to be made early to ensure that when your child is ready for braces treatment, it is kept as simple and straightforward as possible with best results for the long term.
A growing number of adults are also seeking orthodontic treatment for more youthful smiles later in life. There is no age restriction for orthodontic treatment and various options are available to suit your lifestyle and budget.
Straight teeth as a result of orthodontic treatment makes us feel good about our appearance. The improvement in confidence and self-esteem as a result of orthodontic treatment is a great advantage. Research has shown that better smiles directly translate to better jobs, pay, relationships, and a happier life.
Every person is different. On average most patient’s wear braces for 18 to 24 months.
For more simple problems it may be much less.
Braces have been used for over one hundred years to straighten teeth. Whilst the basic principle remains the same, modern technological advancement has allowed clear braces (ceramic), and gentle wires to be used now.
Invisalign or clear aligner treatment may be another option for suitable patients.
Braces are fairly sturdy appliances but will break if treated roughly. You should avoid hard sticky or chewy foods. The general rule is – If you can’t cut it with a knife and fork, don’t eat it. Care and common sense will prevent breakages.
Retainers are plastic removable plates that are worn after the braces come off to help settle the teeth into a naturally stable position and keep them straight. It is extremely important to wear retainers as directed by your orthodontist or unwanted tooth movement can occur.
Wearing braces does not interfere with sport. Mouldable mouthguards are available from most pharmacies can be worn over the braces to provide protection. These are highly recommended.
No they will not. The space available for the front teeth does not increase as you grow. If this were to happen, people with straight teeth would end up with gaps between their teeth. Of course this does not occur.
The cost of the initial consultation is $60 and INCLUDES all X-Rays, and photos. Please note that the X-Rays are bulk billed with a valid Medicare card.
After filling in your details, you will meet the orthodontist. There will be a comprehensive examination and assessment of all of the orthodontic problems. Your options will be discussed. Additional information such as x-rays, or moulds of the teeth may be taken to further plan your treatment (No charge). You will be given the opportunity to return and finalise your treatment plan at a later visit (No charge).
The cost of treatment will vary depending on your individual treatment plan. We provide NO DEPOSIT, INTEREST FREE payment plans to allow you to have the smile you always wanted without emptying your wallet. Our friendly staff will also structure your payment schedule to maximise your health fund rebate.