Braces

In general braces are indicated to correct the position of the teeth. Many people seek orthodontic treatment purely for aesthetic reasons. However, it is indicated and recommended for many other reasons including but not limitied to the following:
crowded teeth – the problem with crowding is that it makes the thorough cleaning of teeth difficult. Inadequate cleaning provides areas of excessive plaque build up , which in turn can lead to cavities (decay) and or periodontal diseas (gum disease)
spacing  – open spaces between teeth allows food getting lodged. This can lead to sore gums, bleeding gum and decay over time
traumatic or deep bites  – overclosure of the teeth leads to excessive tooth loss over time. The eventual outcome is premature loss of tooth lenthg, chipping and sensitivity.
Function – Our teeth are under load every day. An unbalanced bite can affect not only the way we chew but also cause areas of pain over time, particularly in the jaw joints. Many types of “malocclusion” will over time lead to this
Crossbites – in many cases leads to early tooth wear, notching of teeth and clenching.
Overjet – is often associated with tooth trauma
Edge to edge (including anterior crossbite) –chipping of teeth, joint pain.
Open bite- notching of teet, gum irritation and excessive wear of back teeth, joint pain
Missing teeth - patients whom are missing teeth due to genetic, developmental or removal, good alignment and balanced space creation, provides better fit of bridges and/or space for implants, and in turn a better longterm outcome

It is a common myth thinking that orthodontic treatment is only during childhood and adolescence. Although the majority of our patients commence orthodontic treatment when they are young we are seeing an increasing number of adults choosing to have orthodontic treatment. You are never too old to correct a smile

Treatment can vary greatly but it can take from 18 to 30 months to complete, depending on the degree of crowding and skeletal growth.

Adult treatment can take longer to complete as the facial bones have stopped growing. Good oral hygiene is very important and will help keep treatment time on track.

Conventional braces involves the placement of metal or ceramic brackets placed on the surface of every tooth. In order for teeth to move, a wire, called arch wire, is placed into these brackets to apply force in order to move teeth into the correct functional position. These wires are changed during the course of treatment until all teeth are perfectly aligned and in a balanced function.
The process involves having individual brackets (pieces of shaped metal or ceramic) attached to the surface of your teeth. These act like handles on each tooth. An interlinking wire, known as an arch wire, then connects each of the brackets to move your teeth into position. This movement will occur gradually over the entire course of your orthodontic treatment
Braces are often asscociated with teenagers, however this is definalty not the case. At Southside Dental Options we treat many adult patients with conventional braces also.

The most commonly used options are the traditional metal brackets as they are very effective in moving teeth. However, porcelain or clear braces are available yet not suitable for every case.

Some cases may require extraction of permanent teeth in order to provide enough space to correct the crowding.

It is important however to keep in mind that every patient is different and so is every treatment plan.

The initial appointment required is for a consultation. At this appointment the dentist will assess the treatment required and an estimate fee can be provided. The 2nd appointment will be for some records to be taken, photos, xrays and molds of the teeth are required.

These records are required for the dentist to determine the best possible treatment recommendation for you.

The 3rd appointment is a discussion of the recommended treatment and provides you with the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

The complexity of the case will determine the overall cost of the treatment. Please ask your dentist at your next appointment.

We offer payment plans for orthodontics. This will be determined by the practice manager after the records have been taken.

In general every 6 to 10 weeks depending on what stage of treatment you are at.

Not necessarily. the initial placement of braces is always done by the dentist. Following this you will mostly see one of our highly trainined dental hygienists under the instruction of the dentist.

After school hours are in high demand. we appreciate your understanding that we try very hard to accomodate every patient at the preferred time. However, it will occur that appointments are during school hours. Inital placement of braces and removal of braces will be during school hours and are not available after school.

Depending on wether you are having ceramic (clear to white) or metal brackets, the actual colour are little rubber bands that hold the wire in place. at every appointment you can choose what colour you would like.

It is not an emergency but do contact the practice to schedule an appointment. A lost bracket for any length of time, means that the particular tooth/teeth will not move and will lengthen overall treatment time if it occurs regularly.

Unpon completion of orthodontic treatment you will be required to wear removable clear retainers full time for 12 months and then nightly after this.

If retainers are not worn as advised, then the teeth will re-crowd and further treatment might be required at an extra cost.

Commonly known as ‘invisible braces’ is available for adults and now, also for teenagers. Invisalign is a series of clear, removable aligners which gradually correct the rotations of the teeth.

See www.invisalign.com.au for further information.

These appliances correct the teeth alignment by removing wrong myofunctional habits. Many children suck their thumb or breathe with their mouths open. These habits can cause crowding and open bites. We can correct these habits with the use of Myobrace appliances.

The appliances are available for juniors, teenagers and adults.

See www.myobrace.com for further information.

Contact us today to enquire about invisalign and more in Morphett Vale.