We have put together some of the more frequently asked questions from our new and current patients about their treatment. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask us at your next appointment or contact us on (07) 5521 0877.
There is nothing in the orthodontic treatment that you need to be afraid of. There are no injections ….ever! The only discomfort from braces comes the morning after they have been fitted or adjusted and your teeth have started to move. This discomfort may last for a few days.
No. Only very few cases require teeth to be removed before you get braces. If your mouth is badly over-crowded there is a small possibility you may need to have teeth removed to create space for your other teeth to move into alignment.
The length of your treatment depends on your problem, growth and your cooperation. In general, braces need to worn for between nine and 30 months. The average treatment time for braces is 18 to 24 months, however, treatment time may be longer if growth is different than expected or patient cooperation is less than ideal. More severe problems take longer and require more cooperation.
You should brush your teeth at least twice to three times per day – after every meal and when you go to bed. This will keep your teeth looking great, in great condition and also make you feel better about yourself. To clean your braces, we also recommend using special high fluoride toothpaste to further protect your teeth.
After your braces are removed, you will wear a fixed, invisible retainer to prevent your teeth from moving back towards their original position. A retainer helps your teeth stay aligned while your jaw continues to grow. The fixed plate may stay in for some time. You may also wear a removable plate which you will be weaned off over time. In most cases, the longer you wear your retainer, the better chance you have that your teeth will remain straight.
When you first have your braces fitted, you will notice a slight change in the way you speak like a slight lisp. Once your tongue and lips get used to your braces, you will adjust and speak normally again. Braces don’t affect the tone of your voice.
In special circumstances, we can arrange for some of your braces to be removed but generally there is a charge for this service. For special occasions like formals, many patients choose to be fitted at no charge with almost invisible ‘white wire’. Please talk to us about this.
If any part of your braces break, please contact us as soon as possible during business hours to schedule a time to repair your problem. Problems for extended periods of time may cause a disruption in your treatment plan.
Invisalign can treat a range of orthodontic problems in many age groups and can be a discreet and effective way of treating common orthodontic problems. Technology in this area is constantly improving, and each patient needs to be assessed for suitability. Because Invisalign plates are removable, they can be easily taken out regularly which can reduce the effectiveness of treatment. They can also be easily lost or misplaced so may not be suitable for younger children.
Invisalign aligners are removable so you can eat anything. However, it is important to brush your teeth after eating and before you put your aligners back on.
