Orthodontics

Early interceptive orthodontics

Some malocclusions are caused by functional problems such as incorrect swallowing, mouth breathing and jaw position. Early intervention and treatment can correct these problems and create a more ideal template for the eruption of the permanent teeth. Using myofunctional appliances (retraining muscles) and functional appliances which gently expand the dental arches & reposition the lower jaw into a more balanced position we can almost always avoid the extraction of permanent teeth.

At the same time we work with chiropractors and osteopaths to correct any body imbalances that may affect the teeth and jaw development such as neck, pelvis and leg-length discrepancies and look at strengthening the immune system through diet modification & where appropriate nutritional supplements. This co-treatment approach is known as chirodontics.

Straight teeth - beautiful smile

Once all the permanent teeth have erupted we correct the alignment of the individual teeth to create a beautiful smile.

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Invisalign Aligners – an "invisible" alternative to braces. A series of clear plastic aligners is used to gradually straighten the teeth using computer scanning of the dental models & 3-D imaging to determine the final position of the teeth and create the aligners. These are worn 24 hours per day, except for eating. The length of time depends on the severity of the malocclusion. More about Invisalign Aligners

 

Braces - small metal or ceramic (tooth coloured) brackets are bonded to the teeth & a series of wires is used to align the teeth over a 9 – 12 month period.

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Adult Orthodontics

Many adults are choosing to have orthodontics for cosmetic and health reasons. In some cases it is the preferred or only way of correcting temporomandibular (TMJ) disorders & symptoms such as headaches, neck and shoulder pain, blocked sinuses & ear problems. More about TMJ 

Again we follow the chirodontic approach and co-treat with different practitioners such as osteopaths, chiropractors, massage therapists, physiotherapists, acupuncturists, GPs & naturopaths. Using lightwire appliances for gentle expansion, build-ups bonded to the teeth for bite correction and invisalign aligners we can offer virtually invisible orthodontic treatment and a whole-body approach to greatly enhance your health and wellbeing - as well as creating beautiful smiles.

Retention

Retaining the orthodontic correction is an important part of the orthodontic treatment. It takes the surrounding bone several months to catch up with and firm up around the newly positioned teeth. We stress the need to wear retainers for 1 – 2 years following the orthodontic treatment (usually only at night) and regularly monitor the teeth for any movement or bite problems. In adults it is especially difficult to change functional problems that may contribute to relapse of the teeth and we usually devise a plan for permanent retention such as bonded wires and occlusal splints for night wear.