Why Experience Matters When Choosing Your Orthodontist

When you’re choosing an orthodontist, it’s easy to start with whoever is closest to home. And while location is certainly worth considering, it shouldn’t be the only factor.

Orthodontic treatment can take months, sometimes years, so it also helps to look at the person behind the treatment plan. Their training, experience and approach to diagnosis can shape how your care is planned from the very beginning.

Why Specialist Training and Experience Matter

Orthodontics is a recognised dental specialty that requires additional training beyond general dentistry. That extra study focuses on areas such as tooth movement, bite, jaw development and facial growth.

Clinical experience matters too. It can help an orthodontist recognise potential complexities, weigh up different treatment options and adjust a plan as treatment progresses.

*”Good orthodontic care starts with understanding the whole picture. My goal is to carefully assess each patient and develop a plan that makes sense for their individual needs.”*
– Dr Riaan, Dee Why Orthodontist

Meet Dr Riaan

Dr Riaan has more than 20 years of clinical experience and has completed specialist orthodontic training. He is also involved in teaching postgraduate orthodontic students at the University of Sydney.

Over the years, his work has included early intervention for children, functional appliances, clear aligners and complex orthodontic cases. That broad experience informs the way he approaches diagnosis and personalised treatment planning at Wavescape Orthodontics.

Looking Beyond Individual Teeth

Orthodontic care isn’t just about straightening one or two teeth. A thorough assessment looks at how your teeth, bite and jaw work together before a treatment plan is recommended.

For some patients, travelling a little further can feel worthwhile when they’re looking for a specialist whose approach to diagnosis and planning aligns with what they want from their care.

Making Visits to Dee Why Easier

We know travel still matters. Our practice offers complimentary on-site parking at Dee Why Grand Shopping Centre, with public transport nearby. Where clinically appropriate, appointments may also be spaced further apart to help reduce the number of trips needed during treatment.