Frequently Asked Questions

No. You can arrange a consultation without your dentist’s referral, however we will ask you to see your dentist for a check-up prior to any treatment. If you do not have a dentist, we will happily provide you with some convenient options. We have a large number of well-respected and caring colleagues who can look after your general dental needs.

Book a complimentary consultation

On average, orthodontic treatment usually takes 18 – 24 months. More complex cases may take longer to complete, simple cases less time. The total treatment time depends on a large number of factors, which include the severity of the original bite problem, the type of treatment carried out, and the co-operation of the patient. Treatment that extends longer than originally planned is usually the result of poor patient compliance with appointments, oral hygiene or treatment.

No two orthodontic problems are the same and the cost of orthodontic treatment will depend on the severity of the problem and the treatment required. Many orthodontic problems require only simple treatment and you might find that the cost is lower than you thought. Costs will be discussed in full at your initial consultation. The fee that we quote covers all aspects of your orthodontic treatment and the majority of patients pay this fee in installments over the duration of the treatment thus making payment more manageable.

Read more about the cost of orthodontics here

We are sensitive to the financial pressures on families today, so for your convenience, we provide a payment plan for your orthodontic care. An initial deposit is paid when the appliances are constructed or fitted, and the balance is paid in monthly installments for the duration of the treatment.

Read more about the cost of orthodontics here

Health funds repay some of the cost of orthodontic treatment for fund members who have the appropriate level of dental insurance. Please carefully check the premiums, conditions and level or rebate to see whether you will be better off with insurance or not.

At your initial consultation, we will provide you with a written quote and information to assist with claiming a rebate, should your level of cover include orthodontics.

The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends that every child be evaluated by an orthodontist by age 8. The majority of children examined at this age will not require immediate treatment, perhaps never, however early assessment helps detect problems that can benefit from early intervention.

Early treatment is only indicated where there is demonstrable benefit in intercepting a developing problem, that is the condition would worsen without intervention to the point where future treatment may be compromised. An example of this would be an extreme bite problem which is amenable to corrective treatment at an early age, but potentially difficult or impossible to treat when older.

Advances in orthodontic materials and techniques has reduced the need for permanent tooth extractions in the majority of cases. Additionally, Glenn and Brett both share a conservative treatment philosophy that favors non-extraction treatment, wherever it is biologically sound to do so. Nonetheless, there are cases where severe crowding, the position of the teeth in the face, or the bite dictates the need to extract teeth.

Wearing braces is simple and generally quite easy with the modern appliances available. However, they do need to be regularly adjusted (approximately every 6-8 weeks), and this will make the teeth feel tender for a few days. During this short period, soft foods and a mild analgesic may be needed. The fitting of braces is generally painless. Discomfort usually occurs several hours after placement of the appliances and similarly after adjustments.

Yes, you can play contact sports BUT you must ask us for a mouthguard to protect your teeth and lips/cheeks from accidental injury.

The care of your appliances will be fully explained when they are placed. You’ll get a thorough run-down on cleaning, things to avoid eating (to prevent damage to the teeth and appliances) and how to keep and get yourself out of trouble.

We share your concern about missing work or school, and we make every effort to ensure that all patients receive a fair share of convenient appointments. We schedule longer appointments during school hours and shorter appointments before and after school. The majority of your appointments will fall under the ‘short’ (10-15 minutes) category.

Definitely! It is very important to continue your regular dental check-ups to prevent and detect dental decay and to monitor your overall dental health. Your dentist can scale and clean around any orthodontic appliances.

Book a Complimentary Consultation

Your first visit is FREE!

"*" indicates required fields