The happiest teeth are the straight teeth

At Straight Orthodontics, we believe it’s never too early or too late to achieve your straighter smile. No matter if you’re a teenager or adult at any stage in your life, a healthy smile is important. This why we are happy to help everyone achieve the smile of their dreams.

However, during the teenage years between 10 to 14 specifically is the best timeframe to undergo braces treatment. The advantage is that the mouth and jaw are still growing, meaning teeth and the jaws are easier to manipulate.

But adults, don’t let that or the appearance of braces turn you away. Because there are many discreet options too!

Straightened teeth are easier to clean, and the chances of dental issues are decreased.

The different types of treatment

So many options, and yet they all do the same thing, straighten your teeth! What exactly are all these options?

Conventional Metal Braces:

The affordable and effective traditional way to straighten teeth. Traditional metal braces use brackets bonded to each tooth, archwires and elastic bands to help move teeth into the correct positions. Many patients are concerned about the appearance of traditional braces; however, brackets are much smaller now through advances in the industry and clear elastic bands can be used.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are traditional braces; however, they offer brackets which are made from a clear or tooth-coloured ceramic material instead of the metal counterpart. These braces are preferred by patients who are worried about the aesthetics and are self-conscious about wearing braces. These braces are not completely invisible.

Clear Aligners

The alternative to braces, are clear aligners. Clear aligners are seen as a miracle for a lot of patients and are increasing in popularity very fast, due to the discreetness and removability. Adults and teens love clear aligners, as they can happily smile while subtly straightening their teeth.

Retainers

Retainers are usually used post braces treatment to hold the new smile in place. The newly positioned teeth need time to adjust to their new locations, otherwise they will slowly return to the original locations. This is exactly what a retainer does, it retains your new smile!

At Straight Orthodontics, we offer Invisalign, Teen Invisalign and Spark Clear Aligners. These options all straighten your teeth discreetly over time, while being removable.

Find out more information about braces and retainers, by clicking below.

If you would like to find out more about your treatment options or to book an appointment, please contact us today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Braces, commonly used in orthodontics, can benefit a wide range of individuals with various dental conditions. The primary candidates for braces include:

  • Children and Teenagers: This group is the most common demographic for braces. As children grow, their teeth can sometimes come in crooked, crowded, or out of alignment. Braces can correct these issues during their developmental years.
  • Adults with Alignment Issues: More adults are opting for braces to correct alignment issues that were either not addressed in childhood or have developed over time. These issues include crooked teeth, overcrowded teeth, or bite problems such as an overbite or underbite.
  • Individuals with Jaw Misalignment: Braces can help in repositioning the jaw for those who have misaligned jaws, which can lead to issues with biting, chewing, and even speech.
  • People with Oral Health Issues: Misaligned teeth can contribute to oral health problems like increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease due to difficulty in cleaning. Correcting the alignment can improve oral hygiene and overall dental health.
  • Those Seeking Cosmetic Improvement: Many individuals choose braces for cosmetic reasons. Straighter teeth and a more aligned smile can boost confidence and self-esteem.
  • Patients with Speech Impediments: In some cases, improper teeth alignment can affect speech. Braces can help in adjusting the positioning of teeth, which can improve speech issues.
  • Individuals with Chewing and Eating Difficulties: Misaligned teeth can make it difficult to chew food properly. Braces can correct the alignment to ease these difficulties.
  • Patients with Excessive Wear on Teeth: Improper alignment can lead to uneven wear and tear on teeth. Correcting the alignment with braces can help distribute the force of biting and chewing more evenly.

    It’s important to consult with a dental professional or orthodontist to determine if braces are the appropriate solution for specific dental issues. They can provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend the best course of action.

    • Early orthodontic treatment addresses dental or jaw development issues while a child is still growing — often between ages 7 and 11. It may reduce the complexity of treatment later on. Not all children need early intervention; an assessment will determine whether it’s relevant.

    A general guideline is around age 7 to 9 for a first orthodontic assessment, once enough adult teeth have come through to assess jaw and bite development. Early assessment doesn’t necessarily mean early treatment — it simply provides useful information for planning ahead.

    Deciding which type of braces is right for you involves several factors, including your orthodontic needs, lifestyle preferences, budget, and aesthetic concerns. Here’s a breakdown of key considerations to help you make an informed decision:

  • Orthodontic Needs: Consider the complexity of your dental issues. Traditional metal braces are effective for a wide range of orthodontic problems, while ceramic or lingual braces might be suitable for less severe cases.
  • Aesthetic Preferences: If appearance is a concern, explore less visible options like ceramic braces, lingual braces (behind the teeth), or clear aligners like Invisalign.
  • Lifestyle Considerations: Assess your daily activities, such as sports or playing musical instruments, to choose braces that won’t interfere with your routine. Removable options like clear aligners offer flexibility.
  • Comfort and Sensitivity: Some types may be more comfortable based on your sensitivity. Metal braces might initially cause irritation, whereas clear aligners are generally more comfortable but require getting used to.
  • Treatment Duration: The type of braces can affect the length of treatment. Discuss with your orthodontist the estimated treatment time for each option.
  • Budget: Factor in the cost. Metal braces are usually more affordable, while ceramic braces, lingual braces, and clear aligners tend to be pricier.
  • Maintenance and Care: Consider the maintenance each type requires. Clear aligners need regular cleaning, while metal braces require careful cleaning around brackets and wires.
  • Professional Consultation: Finally, consult with an orthodontist to get a personalised recommendation based on your specific dental needs and preferences.

    • When wearing braces, it’s important to follow specific dietary guidelines to ensure the braces remain effective and undamaged, and to maintain good oral hygiene. Here are some common dietary restrictions and recommendations:

  • Avoid Sticky and Chewy Foods: Foods like caramel, gum, taffy, or sticky candy can get stuck in braces and may even pull them off the teeth.
  • Steer Clear of Hard Foods: Hard foods, such as nuts, hard candies, ice, and popcorn kernels, can break or damage the wires and brackets of braces.
  • Cut Down on Sugary Foods and Drinks: These can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, especially as braces can make it harder to clean teeth properly.
  • Limit Starchy Foods: Foods high in starch, like white bread and potato chips, can easily get trapped in braces and lead to plaque buildup.
  • Avoid Tough Meats and Raw Vegetables: It’s best to stick to softer meats and cooked or cut-up vegetables to prevent damage to your braces.
  • Cut Foods into Small Pieces: For fruits like apples or carrots, cut them into small, bite-sized pieces rather than biting into them with your front teeth.
  • Be Careful with Chewy Breads: Bagels and other chewy breads can stick to braces and potentially cause damage.
  • Avoid Biting into Hard Foods with Front Teeth: Use your back teeth instead to prevent damaging the brackets on your front teeth.
  • Limit Acidic Foods and Beverages: Items like citrus fruits and soda can erode tooth enamel and irritate mouth tissues.
  • Stay Hydrated with Water: It’s the best drink for overall oral health, especially with braces, as it helps wash away food particles and reduces the risk of tooth decay.

    Remember, these are general guidelines. It’s always a good idea to follow the specific advice given by your orthodontist as they may have particular recommendations based on your individual treatment plan. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are also crucial while wearing braces.

    • Yes, Straight Orthodontics in Mentone and Frankston offers both traditional braces and clear aligners including Invisalign, alongside early treatment and surgical orthodontics. The most appropriate option is recommended based on each patient’s individual clinical needs.