Orthodontics FAQs
Common Questions About Orthodontics
Find out more about orthodontic treatment. These are some of the most frequently asked questions our team here at Kids Dental and My Braces gets asked.
You can download our Orthodontics Guide here, including these FAQs.
What is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a specialised branch of dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating alignment issues with teeth and jaws. Common issues include crooked teeth, overcrowding, and misaligned jaws, often referred to as malocclusion. Treatment typically involves braces, aligners, or other corrective appliances to achieve a functional and aesthetically pleasing alignment.
What is the difference between a dentist and a specialist orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed additional specialised training in orthodontics. This includes at least three years of postgraduate education focusing on tooth movement and facial development. Orthodontists are experts in correcting misaligned teeth and jaws, while general dentists focus on overall dental care, including fillings, crowns, and cleanings.
What’s the right age for orthodontic treatment?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. However, it’s recommended that children have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7 if a problem is suspected. Early intervention can prevent more serious issues later on. While many children start comprehensive treatment after their permanent teeth have erupted (around ages 12-15), orthodontic care can be effective at any age.
How long will treatment take?
Treatment duration varies based on the complexity of the case, the type of appliances used, and patient compliance. Most comprehensive treatments with braces take between 18 to 24 months, but more complex cases can take longer.
How much does treatment cost?
The total cost of treatment can vary between $1300 and $11000 depending on the case. The Average cost is $8900. We can only provide an exact quotation once a thorough examination has been completed and all the relevant diagnostic information has been analysed.
Will I Need Teeth Extracted?
We believe in a non-extraction treatment philosophy whenever possible here at Kids Dental and My Braces. With this goal in mind, we stress the importance of early screenings and interceptive treatment for young children whenever it is indicated. Even with early treatment, sometimes removing permanent teeth is required to achieve the best orthodontic result – especially if there is severe dental crowding and protruding teeth to begin with. Recent research suggests that about 25% of patients will need teeth removed as part of their overall orthodontic treatment program.
What Are Retainers?
Retainers are devices used after removing braces to hold teeth in their new positions while the surrounding bone and gums stabilize. They can be removable plastic plates or fixed wires behind the teeth.
Can I Get Treatment for Just My Top or Bottom Teeth?
It’s possible but not usually recommended. Treating only one arch can lead to an uneven bite, which might cause further issues like teeth wear, gum damage, or jaw pain. It’s best to treat both arches for a balanced and stable result.
Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Removed After Orthodontic Treatment?
Sometimes. There is limited compelling evidence to suggest that routinely extracting wisdom teeth will prevent the front teeth from moving over time and therefore the third molars are no longer removed as a matter of routine. However, in many cases there are tangible benefits in extracting them soon after treatment has finished. For example – if a wisdom tooth has very limited space and cannot fully erupt, a local gum problem will usually develop over time. Episodes of acute gum infection can become very regular and chronic abscesses can form. Damage to the adjacent teeth is also possible. In these cases, the wisdom teeth should be removed. With the aid of a full mouth radiograph (X-ray) taken near the completion of orthodontic treatment, we can advise on the status of third molars and potential future problems. In older patients, sometimes it is necessary to remove the wisdom teeth before treatment commences.
Do I Still Need to See a Dentist During Orthodontic Treatment?
Yes. It is very important that orthodontic patients continue regular 6-monthly checks and cleans with their general dentist to ensure oral health is maintained. Orthodontic treatment may need to be put on hold or stopped altogether if there is a significant deterioration in oral health during the active treatment period. To start your treatment journey with the team at Kids Dental and My Braces, book your orthodontic consultation today.
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