Orthodontic treatment moves teeth gradually into a new position using braces or clear aligners. If you are considering it, a useful first step is understanding what can realistically be changed, how long it may take and what will be needed to hold the result.
Orthodontics may be considered for crowding, spacing, protruding teeth or a bite that does not meet evenly. Your dentist will assess the teeth, jaws and gums together, rather than treating the appearance of the front teeth in isolation.
Treatment time depends on how far the teeth need to move, the approach chosen and how consistently the appliance is worn. Bring your questions about appliances, timing, comfort and retainers to the consultation.
At Parramatta Dentistry | Cosmetique Dental, new and existing patients can request a free orthodontic consultation at our Hunter Street practice.
Orthodontic treatment is generally not started while there is untreated decay or active gum disease. Gum and bone health need to be stable before teeth are moved, and some cases are better managed with a specialist orthodontist referral.
Clear aligners and fixed braces suit different problems. Aligners depend heavily on wearing them as directed; fixed braces are not removable and require more attention to cleaning. Your dentist will explain which approach, if any, is appropriate for your case, and can refer you where that is the better path.
Some bite problems cannot be corrected by moving teeth alone. Where that applies, your dentist will explain the limits of what orthodontics can achieve for you and what the alternatives are, including deciding not to treat.
Your dentist will outline the sequence for your particular case. Appointment numbers and timing depend on the appliance, the movements planned and any other care required.
Discuss what you would like to change, your dental health and whether orthodontic treatment may suit you. The consultation may include scans, photographs and X-rays where clinically necessary. There is no obligation to proceed with treatment.
Records are used to plan the proposed tooth movements and estimate treatment time. Any digital preview helps explain the plan and cannot guarantee the final result.
Any decay, gum treatment or extractions identified in the assessment are completed first. Your dentist will explain whether space needs to be created and how.
Braces are bonded to the teeth, or your first aligners are issued with instructions on wear time. Expect some tenderness in the first days as the teeth begin to move.
You attend regular appointments so progress can be checked and the plan adjusted. Treatment time can change if teeth move differently than planned or wear instructions are not followed.
Retainers are needed once active treatment finishes. Teeth tend to drift without them, so retention is a long-term commitment rather than an optional extra.
Fees depend on the appliance, the complexity of the movements planned and the expected length of treatment. Your dentist will provide a personalised plan and explain the proposed charges, including review appointments and retainers.
Health fund rebates for orthodontics vary considerably between policies, and lifetime limits and waiting periods often apply. Bring your details to the consultation so the out-of-pocket estimate can be discussed with you.
Humm payment plans are available through an external provider, subject to eligibility, approval, fees and terms.
Call (02) 8090 1109 to arrange your consultation. If you are specifically considering clear aligners, our Invisalign and clear aligners page covers that option in more detail.
Cleaning takes more effort during orthodontic treatment. Your dentist or hygienist will show you how to clean around brackets and wires, or how to care for aligners and the teeth beneath them, and will recommend a review schedule.
Contact us if a bracket comes loose, a wire is irritating, or an aligner no longer fits as it should. After treatment, wear your retainers as directed and let us know if one breaks or becomes uncomfortable.
Moving teeth carries risks. These include root shortening, gum recession, decalcification or decay where cleaning is inadequate, tooth sensitivity, and jaw joint discomfort. Your dentist will explain how these apply to your case.
Estimated treatment times are estimates. Teeth may move more slowly than planned, and the plan may need to change. Results also depend on following the wear and cleaning instructions you are given.
Teeth can relapse towards their previous positions after treatment, which is why retainers are required indefinitely. Orthodontic treatment does not guarantee a particular appearance, and your dentist will discuss the alternatives with you before treatment begins.
View selected dental treatment examples. Results vary between individuals and are not a prediction of your outcome. Your dentist will discuss suitability, risks and alternatives with you.
Request our price guide as a starting point, then speak with us about an itemised quote for your individual care. We will explain what is included and any additional treatment that may be needed.
Not sure which applies to you? Call (02) 8090 1109 or book an assessment at Suite 25, Level 3, 27 Hunter Street, Parramatta.
