Dental braces, or orthodontic brackets, are devices used by dental professionals to straighten crooked teeth or correct a misaligned bite. They help to reposition the teeth with an aim to adjust the bite and result in a beautifully straight smile.

Braces work by placing constant pressure on each tooth to move them to the desired position. They are tightened at each returning visit to your smile.com.au dentist, applying slightly more pressure to the teeth to continue to move them into their proper position.

The cost of braces will vary depending on your individual circumstances. In Australia, the cost of ceramic braces can range from $5,000 to $8,500 for a standard 18-month treatment. Traditional metal braces can cost up to $8,000. For more complex cases the cost of  braces start at approximately $7,500 for a single arch and from $12,500 for a full treatment. Clear braces tend to cost between $2,000 and $9,000 depending on the type of aligners you get and your individual circumstances.

We understand that costs are often a barrier for patients and flexible payment plans are offered.

People of all ages require braces for a variety of reasons. They may need to fix orthodontic problems or they may simply desire a perfectly straight smile if they were not blessed with naturally straight teeth. You might consider getting braces if you have:

• Crooked teeth
• Crowded teeth
• Gapped teeth
• An overbite
• An underbite
• A crossbite
• An incorrectly positioned jaw.

Whether you are looking to correct a structural issue or you are considering getting braces purely for cosmetic purposes, they can not only correct the positioning of your teeth, but also improve your overall oral health.

If you identify with any of the below issues, orthodontic braces or clear aligners will work for you.

Metal Braces

Metal braces consist of metal brackets and wires. Modern metal wired braces are much smaller and less noticeable than they used to be, and even feature heat-activated archwires that use your body heat to assist in moving teeth faster and less painfully.

This style is the most affordable, and the option of fun coloured bands allow you to personalise them with your favourite colours. Traditional, metal braces are the most noticeable type.

Ceramic Braces

While these are the same size and shape as metal braces, they feature tooth-coloured or clear brackets to blend in with the teeth for a less noticeable appearance. Some even have the option of tooth-coloured wires for further subtlety.

Ceramic braces are a great option for those who desire the fast results of metal without standing out so much on the teeth. This style can stain easily if not looked after correctly.

Clear Aligners – Spark or Invisalign

Clear aligners are clear invisible braces – 18 to 30 customised clear plastic removable aligners that are replaced every one-two weeks. These allow you to eat and drink whatever you want and are virtually invisible. They are only available for teenagers and adults, and may have slower results than traditional braces. 

Clear aligners dentist Kenmore Dr Rachel Hall uses SPARK clear aligners to straighten your smile without anyone knowing your getting braces.

Orthodontic treatment gives you more than just an aesthetically pleasing smile. You can also enjoy other benefits such as:

• Teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of plaque build-up, gum disease and tooth decay
• Breath is improved
• Reduced risk of teeth wear
• Improved chewing functionality
• Eliminated stress and pain of jaw joints.

Orthodontic problems can lead to more serious health issues, so if you are concerned about your oral health, it is always best to visit your Evolve Kenmore dentist as soon as possible to discuss your options and get a treatment plan.

Your treating dentist will schedule adjustment revisits depending on your needs and the stage of your treatment. Generally, patients are seen every 4-8 weeks, but this can change for each individual. Regular monitoring is required by your dentist to review the treatment progress whether you are having traditional braces or clear aligners.

Some health insurance plans provide benefits for orthodontic treatments, we will work with you to maximise your health insurance claim for dental and have flexible payment options to help spread the costs of your orthodontic care.

Depending on your orthodontic issue, there are alternative treatments available. For example, if you are looking to correct a small gap in your front teeth, you might consider dental bonding or veneers instead of braces.