What is an orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed a degree in dentistry, as well as an additional 3 years of full-time postgraduate study. Specialist orthodontists focus only on treating tooth and jaw misalignment, with the aim of obtaining the best possible smile, jaw function and facial harmony.

The following training is required to become a specialist orthodontist:

• Bachelor of Dental Surgery

• Masters Degree in Orthodontics (further 3 years of full time study incorporating research and extensive clinical experience)

• Registration as a specialist orthodontist

Is a referral required?

No referral is needed. Please call the practice and we will be happy to schedule you a consultation appointment.

Do you offer payment plans?

Our interest free, monthly payment plans make it easy to invest in your smile. You pay an initial deposit at the beginning of your treatment, and pay the balance with monthly installments spread over the course of your treatment. Cost depends on the complexity of your treatment which will be explained when you attend for a consultation.

Why is it important for a child to see a specialist orthodontist?

Some problems should be treated when they first appear as they can become worse as a child grows. Orthodontic treatment aims to permanently change a child's teeth and possibly their face, so it is important that a well-qualified professional carry out this treatment.

Orthodontic specialists limit their practices to orthodontic treatment only. Further advanced specialisation has given Orthodontists the special skills required to manage tooth movement and guide facial development.

What are impacted teeth?

Impacted teeth are teeth that haven’t yet erupted into the mouth. This is usually due to severe crowding, or because the teeth have gotten ‘lost’ on their eruption path. Impacted teeth can be detected on x-rays and more detailed scans may be required to ascertain tooth position. Sometimes, it is necessary to surgically uncover an impacted tooth and actively pull or guide the tooth into the correct position using braces.

Why is it important to keep baby teeth in their normal position?

Baby teeth maintain the normal arch form and arch length. If the baby teeth are lost early due to decay or extractions, space can be lost and create a crowding problem when the permanent teeth come through.

What is a crossbite?

The upper teeth should fit outside the lower teeth like a lid on a box. If the upper jaw is too narrow, the lower jaw usually swings to one side to allow the back teeth to bite and a posterior cross-bite results. Front teeth can also erupt in anterior cross-bite.

Why should crooked teeth be straightened?

Straight teeth will certainly give you a great smile and improved self-esteem but more than that - straight teeth are easier to clean properly and are less likely to wear over time. A jaw that bites together properly is also crucial for ongoing dental health and patient comfort, as the jaw can impact a range of other related areas including the skull and spine.

Do braces hurt?

Many patients experience slight discomfort a few hours after braces are fitted. The discomfort is often described as a feeling of pressure on the teeth. This is due to the braces moving the teeth gently to the desired position. This discomfort usually only lasts for 2 to 4 days.

Is there a maximum age for orthodontics?

Orthodontic specialists can improve your smile and bite at any age! While most people tend to associate orthodontic treatment with children and adolescents, age is not a limiting factor for tooth movement. Today, more and more adults are seeking orthodontic treatment to correct crooked teeth, tooth crowding and more.

What are “clear aligners” such as Invisalign or 3M Aligners, and how do they work?

These are a series of clear removable plastic “trays” that can be used to straighten your teeth without metal wires or braces. As you replace each aligner with the next in the series, your teeth will move little by little, week by week until they have straightened to the final position your orthodontist has prescribed. Unlike braces, these clear aligners can be removed while you eat and brush your teeth, and they are almost invisible, making them a great aesthetic option.

Clear aligners are the name of the treatment, whilst you may know them by the name of the brand - there are various clear aligner brands and your orthodontist can recommend which is best for your smile.