Frequently Asked Questions
Will braces affect my life style?
You can still do everything you could do before. This includes eating and playing contact sports.
Will braces be uncomfortable?
Modern braces are rarely uncomfortable as the wires that are used now are much gentler than they used to be. This enables very light forces to be applied to the teeth.
When can braces be started?
It is best to visit an orthodontist as soon as you suspect that you may require orthodontic treatment.
How are teeth straightened?
Teeth are straightened by the use of appliances, which are custom made to suit each patient. They may be fixed to the teeth (braces) or may be removable (plate or Invisalign) but either way they apply gentle force to the teeth to move them to the desired position.
How long does it take?
Treatment varies depending on the severity and complexity of your teeth. Your orthodontist will be able to tell you exactly.
Can I have Invisalign?
Invisalign is generally for adults but can also be used for older teenagers. This is because this technique requires all of the back teeth to be erupted and also relies on very good cooperation with wearing the aligners.
What happens after orthodontic treatment?
Teeth have some memory and tend to want to drift back toward their pretreatment positions. Therefore retainers are fitted to the teeth to ensure that the teeth stay straight. Modern retainers today are invisible so no one will actually see that you have them.
Are teeth extracted?
No. As techniques have improved it is rarely required to extract teeth nowadays.
Do I need a referral?
No. A referral is not needed.
