FAQs

Orthodontic treatment is a specialised type of dental care that focuses on straightening teeth and correcting jaw alignment. Using braces, clear aligners, plates, or other appliances, orthodontics helps improve the function, health, and appearance of your smile. A properly aligned bite also makes it easier to keep your teeth clean, reduces wear on your teeth, and can prevent future dental problems.

Children do not need a referral to see an orthodontist, you can book an appointment directly. However, if you are an adult, you will usually need a referral from your dentist to start orthodontic care. If you’re unsure, our team can help guide you through the process.

A dentist looks after your general oral health, including cleaning, fillings, and preventive care. An orthodontist is a specialist who has completed extra years of university training to focus only on straightening teeth and correcting jaw alignment. In other words, all orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists.

We offer a wide range of orthodontic options to suit different needs and lifestyles, including:

- Traditional metal braces

- Clear ceramic braces

- Invisalign® clear aligners

- Growth modification appliances for younger patients

One of our orthodontists will help you choose the best treatment to achieve a healthy, confident smile.

No, it’s never too late to straighten your teeth! Orthodontic treatment works at any age, and many adults choose braces or Invisalign® to improve their smile and bite. As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, you can benefit from treatment at any stage of life.

Invisalign® uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners that gradually shift your teeth into their ideal positions. Each aligner is precisely designed to apply gentle, controlled forces to specific teeth at each stage of treatment. By changing to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks, your teeth progressively move until your smile is beautifully aligned.

Invisalign aligners can be just as effective as traditional braces for many orthodontic problems, including mild to moderate crowding and spacing. For more complex bite or jaw issues, braces may still be the best option. Your orthodontist will help you decide which treatment will give you the best results for your smile.

You might feel some mild discomfort or pressure when braces or aligners are first fitted or adjusted, as your teeth begin to move. This usually settles within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relief and a soft diet can help during this short adjustment period.

The length of treatment varies depending on the complexity of your case and the type of appliances used. On average, most orthodontic treatments take between 12 to 24 months. Our orthodontist will provide a personalised estimate based on your specific needs during your consultation.

During orthodontic treatment, visits are usually scheduled every 8-10 weeks. These appointments allow your orthodontist to monitor progress, make necessary adjustments, and ensure your treatment stays on track for the best results.