Treatment

TREATMENT – What to expect and how it all works

The Initial Consultation
This is the first appointment where we find out what your concerns and priorities are about your teeth and bite. A thorough dental and orthodontic assessment takes place and if needed, X-rays are taken. Indications for treatment and treatment options are discussed along with a general outline of the likely costs involved.

Sometimes patients are too early to start treatment or may wish to defer treatment for a while – in these instances you are put on recall and reviewed at a later date. We don’t charge for recall appointments.

Records Appointment
Should orthodontic treatment be required further information is needed – study models of your teeth, X-rays of your jaws and teeth (if not already taken) and photographs. This additional information is analysed, along with your initial examination records, to provide a customized treatment plan for you. The treatment plan will identify the problems needing to be addressed, outline options for treatment (where appropriate) and provide a definite quote of cost and payment options.

Bandup appointment(approx 1hr)
This is where the braces get glued to the teeth (bonding) and wires placed. It tends to be a long appointment (approximately 1hour). As it is also the time when detailed instructions are given on how to care for your braces and what you can and cannot eat when braces are on, and what to expect over the next few days as you get used to your braces.

Adjustment Appointment (approx 10-15 mins)
Once braces are fitted patients are seen every 5-7 weeks for about 10 – 15 minutes to adjust the wires and check progress. Unfortunately we cannot fit everyone in before and after school – so some flexibility with appointment times will be required.

The Big Reveal – Braces Off (approx 45mins)
After numerous queries about “when do you think the braces will come off?” – we do finally get to that day. While removing the braces is relatively quick – it takes time to clean all the glue off and polish the teeth. We also need to take moulds of your teeth for the retainers and end of treatment photos.

Retention (approx 5-15 mins)
Once you’ve got your teeth straight – you need to work at keeping them straight and that’s the role of the retainer(s). Retainers are either removable plates and/or bonded wires. Once fitted you are seen every 3-6 months to ensure your teeth stay in the correct place. We generally follow our patients up for 2 years following the removal of braces.