Traditional Braces in Dee Why

Traditional braces closeup The traditional metal braces most people think of when considering orthodontics are still popular today for a reason. They’re highly efficient, predictable, and provide reliable treatment outcomes. With traditional braces, we can address a range of moderate and severe dental issues, such as overbite, underbite, crossbite, crowding and spaces between teeth.

Traditional braces at Wavescape Orthodontics consist of small, metal or ceramic brackets, and are affixed (glued) onto individual teeth. A wire is used to move teeth into the desired position, and braces are held in place using small elastic bands.

What Are Some Benefits?

While there are many orthodontic options available today, traditional braces are a tried-and-true way to straighten your smile. Traditional braces are fixed and can move teeth efficiently by using light and consistent forces.

Because these braces are fixed, they provide consistent force delivery 24 hours a day, which is needed to efficiently move teeth. Orthodontists have been using traditional braces for a long time, as they offer a highly predictable way of moving teeth. Moreover, orthodontists have greater flexibility to adjust traditional braces than clear aligners, where the change between each fortnightly tray can only be minimal.

While orthodontic treatment can greatly improve the appearance of your smile, it does so much more. It can dramatically decrease your future risk for tooth decay, gum disease, chewing issues, speech challenges, jawbone loss, bruxism or teeth grinding.

What to Expect

Throughout the process, multiple teeth need to be adjusted. Some teeth may need to be moved before others, causing what seems like a delay in treatment (although it’s very methodical). This is a reason you may see certain teeth straighten out before others, instead of the most noticeable ones first.

Getting fitted with a new set of braces at our practice is painless and takes about 30-40 minutes. Here’s what to expect:

The teeth will be cleaned and prepared.
The braces will be affixed to the teeth using a special adhesive that we paint on the teeth.
A special blue light is used to set the adhesive.
After the brackets have been glued, we will place the rubber bands and wire on.

Every 6-8 weeks, you or your child will visit us so that progress can be checked, the rubber bands can be replaced, and the wire tightened if needed.

Retaining a Straight Smile

Once the braces are removed, we provide our patients with both fixed and removable retainers. Our treatment fee includes two years of aftercare once treatment is done.

FAQs

Will it hurt?

No, getting braces isn’t painful.

How long will it take?

While some cases take as few as six months, standard orthodontic treatment is approximately 18-24 months. Treatment duration depends on the severity of the problem and the amount of teeth that need to be moved. We also need to consider whether any jaw movement is required.

What can I do to reduce my time in braces?

The most important thing is to always follow your home care instructions related to elastics, and be sure to change out aligners or other appliances, as these help shift your teeth. Second, ensure you keep every appointment with us. Delaying visits can extend the time required to see your full results.

Lastly, make sure you practice good oral hygiene to maintain your healthy smile. Dental infections can affect the health of your bone, teeth and gums, potentially hindering tooth movement.

Are there any foods that I can’t eat?

It’s important to avoid eating hard and sticky foods, as these can break the braces.

What types of braces are available at the practice?

We offer both traditional metal and clear (ceramic) options. Both types offer great results, so it’s purely an aesthetic choice. The ceramic ones are the clearest option, so they’re not as obvious on the teeth.

Do I have to get a referral to see an orthodontist?

No. However, your dentist may spot a problem with your bite or teeth and refer you to an orthodontist.

BOOK A CONSULTATION

Take that first step towards getting a beautiful aligned smile for you or your child. Contact Wavescape Orthodontics to schedule a consultation with Dr Riaan Foot (Orthodontist).
CONTACT US

Any invasive or surgical procedure may carry risks. Before moving forward, it is recommended that you seek a second opinion from an appropriately licensed medical professional.

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