Orthodontics

What does getting orthodontics mean?

Orthodontics is a dental specialty that addresses misaligned teeth and jaw issues. Treatment options include braces and clear aligners to straighten teeth and correct bite problems.

To begin orthodontic treatment, you will consult an orthodontist who will assess your dental needs and create a tailored plan. The treatment duration can range from several months to years, depending on the complexity of your case, and will involve regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress and make adjustments.

Does Private Health Insurance Cover Orthodontics?

Patients with “Extras” cover might have their private insurance cover some of the braces costs. However, this varies between Private Health Funds. Therefore, please check with your provider to clarify if your package includes orthodontics. Some Private Health Insurance providers do not have orthodontics as part of their “Basic Extras”, but have it as part of their higher levels of “Extras”.

If you’re unsure, please contact our team to discuss in detail what your dental package may include.
Orthodontics is NOT covered under Medicare or the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.
Orthodontic Item Numbers (treatments may differ based on patients’ needs):

• 825 Sequential plastic aligners – per arch
• 831 Full arch banding – per arch
• 881 Complete course of orthodontic treatment

What’s the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?

An orthodontist and a dentist both promote oral health, but have distinct roles.

Dentists provide various dental services, including preventive care, routine checkups, fillings, root canals, and extractions. They diagnose and treat common issues like gum disease, tooth decay, and oral infections.

In contrast, orthodontists specialize in aligning teeth and jaws. They undergo additional training after dental school to become experts in treating malocclusions with braces, aligners, and other devices.

While dentists and orthodontists can practice general dentistry, orthodontists focus solely on orthodontic care. In Australia, registered orthodontists can only perform orthodontic treatments and must refer patients for other dental services. Dentists with orthodontic training can offer both general dentistry and orthodontic treatments.

Why do teeth move after orthodontic treatment?

Tooth movement is part of the body’s natural processes and can occur due to several biological and lifestyle factors. Understanding these reasons can help you protect your results and maintain a straight, healthy smile.

Key Reasons Teeth Move After Braces or Aligners:

Elastic Memory of the Periodontal Ligaments

Teeth are connected to the jawbone by tiny elastic fibres called periodontal ligaments. During orthodontic treatment, these fibres stretch as teeth move into new positions. Once treatment ends, they naturally try to pull teeth back to their old places, which is why retainers are essential.

Bone Remodelling Takes Time

When teeth shift, the surrounding bone must also adapt in a process called bone remodelling. This takes time even after braces are removed. Without retainers, teeth are more likely to move before the bone fully stabilises.

Natural Mesial Drift

Teeth slowly drift forward throughout life — a process known as mesial drift. This natural movement often affects the front teeth and can cause crowding over time, making lifetime retainer use highly recommended.

Soft Tissue Pressure

Your tongue, lips, and cheeks all apply constant pressure on teeth. Habits such as tongue thrusting or thumb sucking can make this shifting worse. Addressing these habits helps maintain orthodontic results.

Growth and Development

For younger patients, teeth may move as the jaws and face continue to grow, particularly during the teenage years and early adulthood.

Lack of Retainer Use

Retention is just as important as active treatment. Skipping or inconsistently wearing your retainer allows teeth to relapse, especially in the first few months after treatment.

Wisdom Teeth Eruption

When wisdom teeth emerge, they can push against molars, causing pressure and crowding. Not everyone is affected, but regular dental check-ups can catch issues early.

Bite Forces and Teeth Grinding

Daily chewing and habits like clenching or grinding (bruxism) can gradually move teeth out of position. A night guard may be recommended if grinding is an issue.

How to Prevent Teeth From Moving After Orthodontics

• Wear retainers exactly as prescribed (removable or fixed).
• Address habits like thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or grinding.
• Have wisdom teeth monitored with regular dental visits.
• Schedule follow-up appointments with your orthodontist to catch small shifts early.
• Use a night guard if you grind or clench your teeth.

What are elastic bands for with braces?

Elastic bands, also known as rubber bands, are essential in orthodontic treatment with braces. They correct bite issues and align the upper and lower teeth by applying pressure to address problems like overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite.

Elastics enhance tooth movement beyond what braces alone can achieve and come in different types, such as Class II for overbites and Class III for underbites. Patients must attach them to small hooks on their braces and wear them for 20-22 hours daily as prescribed.

Consistent use is crucial—properly wearing elastics can shorten treatment time and improve results. While some discomfort may initially occur, this usually disappears as you adjust. Skipping or not wearing elastics can delay progress, so following the guidelines is essential for the best outcome. Despite minor challenges, elastics are vital in achieving a well-aligned and functional smile.

Do I need to have teeth removed for orthodontic treatment?

In some situations, tooth removal may be recommended by your orthodontist, particularly if:

• You have severe crowding and insufficient room in your jaw to properly align all the teeth.
• You have protruding teeth or a significant bite issue requiring more realignment space.
• Your treatment requires adjustments to the facial profile or jaw symmetry.

Whether or not you need teeth removed for orthodontic treatment depends on your individual dental structure and treatment goals.

IMPORTANT: Why do costs for braces differ?

Several factors influence the cost of dental braces:

• Type of braces: Options include traditional metal braces (least expensive), ceramic braces, lingual braces, and clear aligners (most expensive).
• Severity of the case: Complex dental issues may require longer treatment and more adjustments, increasing costs.
• Length of treatment: Longer treatment times usually lead to more adjustments, affecting overall prices.
• Additional procedures: Sometimes extra treatments (like dental fillings, gum treatment, tooth extractions, composite bonding, dental crowns, or jaw surgery) may be necessary, adding to the cost.

Due to these variables, brace costs are quoted individually. We offer a FREE analysis* for a personalised quote. Fill out the form below to schedule a consultation.

*Free consultation does not include any treatment.