Orthodontic treatment is the development and management of irregularities in teeth and jaws. It generally involves the use of braces, removable appliances, functional appliances or headgear to move the teeth and/or jaws into an ideal relationship. Badly aligned teeth may be caused by crowded teeth, extra teeth, missing teeth or misalignment of the jaw. Sometimes the cause is genetic, other times misalignment may be the result of accidents, thumb-sucking or the early/late loss of baby teeth. The aim of orthodontics is to enhance a patient’s smile by delivering a healthy, functioning bite and beautiful straight teeth.

Who can benefit from orthodontics?

Waverley Smile Clinic offers a full range of orthodontic treatment suitable for children and adults.

Our patients benefit from orthodontic treatment as it has many cosmetic and medical advantages. The end result of straight teeth and an attractive smile gives our patients increased confidence and self-esteem. Beyond the cosmetic advantages, there are also medical benefits. For example, crowded and overlapping teeth are hard to clean which can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. By bringing teeth into proper alignment, teeth are easier to clean and patients will have better oral hygiene.

Orthodontic process

Orthodontic treatment begins with a thorough assessment of the mouth, including X-Rays, photos, study models and measurements. This allows a tailored treatment that uses appliances that are best suited for you to achieve the best smile.

This treatment is carried out using a range of appliances, which may be removable or fixed temporarily to your teeth or a combination of both, depending on your treatment needs. The orthodontic process varies from 6 – 24 months in duration. However, the length of treatment depends on the severity of the misalignment, the type of treatment carried out and the co-operation of the patient.

When your dental surgeon is satisfied that your teeth, lips and jaw are aligned, the braces are removed and a retainer is fitted to hold the teeth in their new position. A retainer is a removable plate or wire fitted behind the teeth. It is important for patients to wear a retainer so teeth do not move back towards their original position.

Braces solutions

Braces are the most efficient and accurate way of moving teeth. Brackets are adhered to each tooth with special dental glue and are commonly made of stainless steel or a clear plastic material. A wire is inserted through the brackets so that teeth can be moved into its correct position. Wires are adjusted at every four – six week intervals.

No Braces Solutions

Removable Appliances

In some cases, if treated early, it may be possible to use removable appliances.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a series of nearly invisible, removable aligners that are changed every two weeks. As each aligner is replaced, teeth move until they have straightened to the final position.

 

For any enquiries or more information on orthodontics, please contact the Waverley Smile Clinic on tel: 03 95609573 or email: info@waverleysmileclinic.com.au