Frequently Asked Questions

WE INVITE YOU TO PERUSE OUR FAQS BELOW FOR FURTHER INFORMATION IN REGARDS TO OUR ORTHODONTIC TREATMENTS AND SERVICES…

Please do not hesitate to contact our friendly staff on (08) 8373 1363 if you have any further enquiries that are not found below.

HOW LONG DOES ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT TAKE?

The length of treatment depends upon the severity of the problem. Orthodontic treatment may last between 6 to 30 months.

HOW MUCH DOES ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT COST?

The cost of treatment will vary according to whether one or both arches of teeth need treatment; how severe the problem is; the type of braces chosen; and whether there are alternatives to braces. A detailed quotation is given at the discussion visit. The cost of treatment is broken down over the course of treatment to make payment easier.

HOW OFTEN DO I NEED TO HAVE MY BRACES ADJUSTED?

Adjustment visits once braces are in place are short appointments that occur 3 to 8 weeks apart.

WILL I NEED TO HAVE ANY TEETH REMOVED?

In some cases teeth may need to be removed, in order to make enough room to fit crowded teeth into position. Fortunately, modern orthodontics involves a much lower requirement to remove teeth and if treated at the correct age, teeth may only need to be removed in 10 to 15 percent of cases.

DO BRACES HURT?

The majority of patients experience slight discomfort when their braces are first fitted and then a day or two after each adjustment.

WILL I STILL BE ABLE TO TALK WHEN I HAVE BRACES?

Yes, standard braces should not affect how you talk or the sound of your voice. In certain cases, we may need to use an appliance that could get in the way of your tongue. You may then experience slight trouble talking clearly for a day or two. However, your tongue will then readjust and you will be able to talk like normal.

WILL BRACES CAUSE ULCERS IN MY MOUTH?

When you first get braces, you could experience some ulcers in your mouth. If you rinse in warm salty water, they will heal within a week or two. We provide orthodontic wax when you get braces, as this helps to protect the inside of your cheeks from rubbing against the brackets – which in turn helps prevent ulcers forming. Your gums and cheeks will become accustomed to the braces and after a while you shouldn’t need to use wax anymore.

DOES IT HURT TO EAT WITH BRACES?

For the first few days after your braces have been put on your teeth will feel a little tender and you may wish to eat softer foods. After this you should be able to eat normally again.

IS THERE ANYTHING I CAN'T EAT DURING TREATMENT?

You can eat most of the good things that you eat now. However hard, sticky, or crunchy foods should be avoided because they may stick to the brackets and pull them off your teeth. In addition, the sugar can get around the braces and cause cavities. When you begin treatment, we will discuss with you the best foods to eat and the ones to avoid. Plain soft chocolates are fine as long as you brush afterwards.

WHAT IF A BRACKET FALLS OFF?

We will simply re-attach it. Usually this is not a problem; however, if this does occur please make an appointment with us as soon as possible.

HOW LONG DO I NEED TO WEAR RETAINERS FOR?

Expect to wear your retainers full time (day and night) for at least 1-3 months after your braces are removed, then at night time as instructed. Some patients are fortunate enough to have their teeth remain straight with minimal effort, while others need to work harder to keep them aligned. We will guide you through your retainer period for optimal results.

DO I CONTINUE TO SEE MY GENERAL DENTIST WHILE WEARING BRACES?

Absolutely. You should maintain regular check-ups with your dentist to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy before, during and after your orthodontic treatment.

WHY IS ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT SO IMPORTANT?

The name given to an orthodontic problem is ‘malocclusion’ and essentially means a ‘bad bite’.
Most malocclusions are inherited, although some can be acquired. Acquired malocclusions may be instigated by accidents, early or late loss of baby teeth, or sucking of the thumb or fingers for a prolonged period of time.

Malocclusions which may be fixed through orthodontic treatment include:

  • Crowding
  • Spacing
  • Impacted Teeth
  • Cross Bites
  • Protruding Teeth
  • Under Bites
  • Over Bites

Treatment to resolve these conditions can take between 6 to 30 months, depending upon the age of the patient and the severity of the problem. If left untreated, orthodontic problems may worsen over time. They may lead to tooth decay, gum disease, destruction of the bone that holds teeth in place as well as chewing and digestive difficulties. Orthodontic problems can cause abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, inefficient chewing function, excessive stress on gum tissue and the bone that supports the teeth – sometimes leading to chronic headaches or pain in the face or neck. ​
Treating orthodontic problems early may be less costly than the restorative dental care required to treat more serious problems that can develop in later years.