What Is Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment focuses on correcting the alignment of teeth and the jaw to improve both function and appearance. It is used to straighten crooked teeth, close gaps, correct crowding, and fix bite issues such as overbite, underbite, or crossbite.
Treatment works by applying gentle, controlled pressure over time to gradually move teeth into their ideal position. This can be achieved using braces or clear aligners, depending on your needs and goals.
Orthodontic treatment not only enhances the look of your smile but can also:
- Improve chewing and speech
- Make teeth easier to clean
- Reduce uneven wear
- Support long-term oral health
Your dentist will assess your teeth and bite to determine the most suitable orthodontic option for you.
Your Orthodontic Options
Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces use high-grade stainless steel brackets and wires to gradually guide teeth into alignment. They are highly effective for treating a wide range of orthodontic concerns, including more complex cases. Modern designs are smaller, sleeker, and more comfortable than ever before.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are removable, custom-made trays designed to gently move your teeth into position over time. They are nearly invisible when worn and can be taken out for eating and brushing. Best suited for mild to moderate orthodontic cases. Visit our clear aligners page to learn more.
How Orthodontic Treatment Works
- 1 Free Orthodontic Consultation
Your dentist evaluates your teeth, takes scans and X-rays, and discusses which orthodontic option may be appropriate for you. There is no cost for this initial consultation — call one of our clinics or book online.
- 2 Personalised Treatment Plan
A tailored treatment plan is created outlining the estimated duration, cost, and expected results. For clear aligners, you'll also see a digital preview of how your teeth are projected to move.
- 3 Active Treatment Phase
Braces are placed or aligners are issued, and you'll attend regular appointments for adjustments and progress reviews throughout your treatment.
- 4 Retention Phase
Once your desired alignment is achieved, braces are removed and a retainer is provided to maintain your results. Your dentist will advise how long and how often to wear it.
- Keeping your teeth and gums clean — Braces or aligners make cleaning harder. Without extra care, you can develop gum disease, gum recession, bone loss, tooth decay, or permanent white marks on teeth. Good brushing, flossing, and limiting sugary foods and drinks are essential.
- Teeth moving back ("relapse") — Teeth naturally tend to shift over time, especially in the late teenage years as the jaws finish growing. Wearing your retainers as instructed greatly reduces this risk, but some movement can still happen. In rare cases, another round of treatment may be needed.
- Changes from growth — As your jaws and facial bones continue to grow, it can affect how your teeth fit together. This may make treatment take longer or, after you've finished, may change your bite enough that more treatment or even jaw surgery is needed to get the best result.
- Shortening of tooth roots — In some people, the roots of teeth may shorten a little during orthodontic treatment. This is usually harmless, but in very rare cases it can affect the long-term health of the tooth. X-rays may be taken during treatment to check root health.
- Damage to a tooth's nerve ("tooth vitality") — Teeth that have been injured before, have decay, or have large fillings are more at risk. Moving these teeth can sometimes aggravate the nerve and, in rare cases, lead to nerve damage, discoloration, or the need for a root canal.
- Treatment time and cooperation — Your treatment may take longer than the original estimate. Missed appointments, broken appliances, not wearing elastics or aligners as directed, or poor oral hygiene can delay progress or affect your final results.
- Jaw joint problems (TMJ issues) — Some people develop clicking, pain, headaches, or ear problems related to the jaw joint. These can happen with or without orthodontic treatment and may last days, weeks, or sometimes longer.
- Spaces between teeth ("open contacts") — Sometimes small gaps are created to fit orthodontic bands. After treatment these usually close on their own or with a retainer, but in some cases gaps remain and may need fillings or other dental work to close them.
- Changes to the treatment plan — Occasionally, your dentist or orthodontist may need to change the plan during treatment to achieve the best results. This may include referral to a specialist for additional care.
