Frequently Asked Questions

An orthodontist is a specialist dentist in the area of diagnosing, preventing and treating problems related to improper bites and tooth position irregularities. Our orthodontists are highly experienced and regularly keep up to date with the ever-advancing body of knowledge in this field. They are all members of the Australian Society of Orthodontists and the Australian Dental Association. They also have experience teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels at the University of Melbourne. In addition, they have lectured at continuing professional education conferences and forums attended by dental professionals.

Whilst some general dentists offer orthodontics (in addition to general dental services), only a specialist orthodontist has undergone a further three years of full-time specialist training. This gives orthodontists the required expertise in facial growth and dental development, so they are the best person to move your teeth into their correct positions within the face and jaws. This gives you not only a great smile but also ideal function of the bite.

More information is available at the Australian Society of Orthodontists.

There are a variety of orthodontic problems which are specific to each individual. Some of these issues are best dealt while your child is young. So if you or your dentist/oral health therapist are concerned about your child’s teeth or bite, we recommended coming in to see us. We can then assess the need for treatment and plan for it in relation to your child’s growth. If treatment is not required at the time, we will monitor their growth and intervene (if necessary) when the time is right in their growth and development.

If your child has had a baby tooth extracted due to decay or infection, we recommend coming in to see us to assess the need for a space maintenance appliance to avoid the impaction of successive adult teeth.

See here for more information.

Absolutely not. We see many adults. Orthodontic treatment can be done at any age.

If you are familiar with orthodontic treatment if your children have undergone it, be mindful that your treatment as an adult may undertaken differently.

We avoid extractions where possible. However, in a small number of cases having teeth extracted will provide the best outcome. We will talk you through your different options so that you can decide what is best for you.

Treatment costs vary depending on individualised treatment plans. We offer all our patients payment plans to make it more affordable.

Conventional treatment with braces typically takes 18-24 months. With Suresmile, treatment is even faster and with less appointments.