Frequently Asked Questions
FAQS
Have a question about orthodontics?
We have put together answers to some of the most frequently asked questions on orthodontics. If you have another question not listed here for us, please get in touch with our friendly team.
If you desire to enhance your smile, improve your bite, or simply seek an opinion from a specialist orthodontist, Now is a good time!
Nevertheless, the Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic visit be scheduled when the child is between 6-8 years of age. Examination at this age allows the recording of baseline development features and allows for longitudinal (long-term) monitoring of the child’s craniofacial growth and dental development. This invaluable data will allow us to provide the best advice regarding the timing and the need for orthodontic intervention.
No, you do not need a referral.
All orthodontists are registered as specialists with the Dental Board of Australia after undergoing.
- Four to five years of full-time university study to obtain a dental degree
- A minimum of two years of experience in general dental practice
- Additional three years of full-time postgraduate university study to complete the specialist orthodontist training.
During the three years of full-time postgraduate study, they are rigorously educated and trained in
- Facial growth and dental development
- Biology and mechanics of tooth movement
- Clinical modification of jaw growth
- Facial aesthetics
- Hands-on training in orthodontic appliances
- How to practice evidence-based orthodontic treatment
Once Registered Specialist Orthodontist,
- Manage and practice only orthodontics on a full-time basis
- Undertake continuous professional development in orthodontics
Orthodontists are trained to treat the same orthodontic problem in multiple ways. We at Insight Orthodontics realise that you are different, your circumstances can be different, and therefore we will help you achieve your signature smile in the best way possible.
FAQS
Common questions about orthodontics
If you have a question that isn’t on this list, please contact us and we’ll get back to you!
The most appropriate time to commence treatment will depend on multiple factors,
- Is there a significant risk of irreversible damage to teeth, jaws or gums?
- Is the psychosocial well-being of the child affected due to the way the jaws and teeth are positioned
- Dental development status
- Jaw growth status
- Does the child understand the responsibilities related to maintenance of oral hygiene, looking after the orthodontic appliance and the ability to wear the appliance as advised
- Do they possess good oral hygiene and desire to achieve the signature smile?
Therefore, your orthodontist is the best person to provide you with this advice, after which you can make an informed decision.
Not at all! We at Insight Orthodontics believe that everyone deserves a beautiful smile.
The basic process involved in moving teeth is the same at any age, and orthodontic treatment can be successful for adults.
As adults’ facial bones no longer grow, some severe bite issues cannot be corrected with braces alone. In such cases, orthodontic treatment combined with jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) can achieve improvements.
Simply put, there could be many reasons why your child’s friend has already started treatment. Although the chronological age may be similar, children have their own dental and jaw growth patterns and development.
Furthermore, the risks of not undergoing treatment immediately may outweigh the benefits of taking a “wait and watch” approach and vice-versa. After the initial consultation, Dr. Arun Shailendran will explain the rationale for considering a “wait and watch” approach or if intervention is recommended.
Generally, over the entire course of orthodontic treatment (until discharged, including the retention period), you may have to visit us anywhere between 10 to 30 times as it depends on the length and complexity of the treatment plan. Many of these will be short visits for routine checks and adjustments (like a grease and oil change for a car). At the end of each appointment, the next one will be made and noted for your convenience on an appointment card. To offer you the most excellent choice of appointment times, it is essential to make each one approximately six to eight weeks ahead if you or your child is in braces and twelve weeks if it's clear aligners.
Pain is highly subjective. High-quality research studies conclude that discomfort and pain during the first few days of starting treatment should be expected, and the pain should reduce after 48 hours. Unfortunately, the teeth and supporting tissue cannot differentiate between metal/ceramic/plastic or other tooth/jaw moving appliances. Therefore, the idea that some appliance cause less/no pain than others is not backed up by “scientific truth” and that it also does not fit into the laws of Human Biology in the known universe.
In general, NO.
They are the tools that your orthodontist uses to move teeth. An orthodontist is the best person to determine if a particular appliance suits you! As we have already discussed, you are unique. Therefore, we need to choose the one that fits your presenting orthodontic problems and social, emotional, and personal circumstances.
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