Achieve Straighter Teeth with Metal Braces

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Dental braces, or orthodontic cases, 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 our dentist, applying slightly more pressure to the teeth to continue to move them into their proper position.

The cost of braces varies depending on the type of braces, the complexity of the treatment, the location, and the insurance coverage. In Australia, the average cost of braces in Melbourne is between $6,000 and $9,000 for metal braces, between $4,000 and $11,000 for ceramic braces, between $8,000 and $15,000 for lingual braces, and between $4,000 and $10,000 for self-ligating braces. However, this cost may change depending on your individual case and the orthodontist you choose. Some orthodontists may offer payment plans or discounts to make braces more affordable.

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. 

There are four main types of braces – metal, ceramic, lingual and Invisalign or invisible braces.

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.

Lingual Braces

These braces are the same as metal braces but are placed on the inside of the teeth. This makes them invisible from the outside, but it can also make them more difficult to keep clean. They can be more uncomfortable at first and adjustments can be more time-consuming than regular braces.

Invisalign (Invisible Braces)

Invisalign are clear braces- 18 to 30 customised clear plastic removable aligners that are replaced every two weeks. These allow you to eat and drink whatever you want and are virtually invisible. They are also the most expensive option, are only available for teenagers and adults, and may have slower results than traditional 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 book now a FREE consultation with our dentist as soon as possible to discuss your options and get a treatment plan.

There is no age to have recourse to orthodontics, treatments can begin at any time. The duration of treatment depends on age, severity of the problem and the technique used. It extends over several months or years.

Childhood is the ideal age to undertake orthodontic treatments, since at this age it is possible to monitor growth and anticipate problems to prevent them. It is possible to screen for malocclusions and prepare the jaws for permanent teeth with appliances. If a problem with the tongue is detected, your dentist will refer you to the appropriate specialist.

It is during adolescence that it is possible to work on both the jaws and the positioning of the teeth. Thanks to the growth spurt, treatments are often simpler and quicker.

It is still possible to work on the positioning and alignment of teeth even in adulthood. New technologies increase the possibilities of correction.

Braces work by applying constant pressure on your teeth, which gradually moves them into the desired position. The pressure is adjusted by the orthodontist during regular visits, usually every four to eight weeks. The length of treatment depends on the severity of your case, but it typically ranges from six months to three years.

Atlas Smiles Dental Wheelers Hill 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.

Some health insurance plans provide benefits for orthodontic treatments, but usually have long waiting periods (Usually 12 months) and benefit limits. smile.com.au can be an alternative to health insurance for dental, as they have no waiting periods, benefit limits or treatment exclusions. You save on every treatment, every time you visit Atlas Smiles Dental clinic. It can also work with your current health insurance to reduce your out of pocket and ensure you don't reach those benefit limits as quickly.

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 instead of braces. Your smile.com.au dentist can discuss your options with you, and discuss whether or not braces are medically necessary for you.

Braces themselves are not painful, although you may feel some discomfort or soreness after they are applied and following adjustments. This is normal and will subside within a few days. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, to ease the pain. You can also eat soft foods, such as soup, yogurt, or mashed potatoes, and avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods, such as nuts, candy, or gum.

Braces can improve your smile and your oral health in many ways. Some of the benefits of braces are:

• They can correct crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth, which can improve your appearance and self-esteem.
• They can align your bite, which can improve your chewing, speaking, and breathing functions.
• They can prevent or treat dental problems, such as tooth decay, gum disease, jaw pain, or tooth loss, which can save you time and money in the long run.
• They can enhance your overall health, as poor oral health can affect other parts of your body, such as your heart, lungs, or brain.

Taking care of your braces is important to prevent any problems, such as tooth decay, gum disease, or damage to the braces. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably after every meal, and floss once a day. You should also use a fluoride mouthwash to strengthen your enamel and prevent cavities. You should avoid foods and drinks that can stain, damage, or get stuck in your braces, such as coffee, tea, wine, soda, popcorn, ice, hard candy, or chewing gum. You should also visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings, and follow your orthodontist’s instructions for wearing and adjusting your braces.

Typically, 1-3 years but ultimately subject to each child’s unique circumstances.

Regular visits to the dentist for check-ups and adjustments would be required during the treatment period. Other factors:

• How well you follow your orthodontist’s instructions. Your orthodontist will give you specific instructions on how to care for your braces and your teeth, such as how often to brush and floss, what foods and drinks to avoid, and when to visit for check-ups and adjustments. Following these instructions can help you avoid any problems, such as tooth decay, gum disease, or damage to your braces, that can delay your treatment or affect your results. You should also wear any additional appliances, such as rubber bands or retainers, as directed by your orthodontist.
• The type and severity of your orthodontic problem. If you have a complex or severe problem, such as a large gap, a deep bite, or a crooked jaw, you may need more time and adjustments to correct it. If you have a simple or mild problem, such as a minor crowding or spacing, you may need less time and fewer adjustments to fix it.
• The type of braces you choose. There are different types of braces, such as metal, ceramic, lingual, or clear aligners. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on your needs, preferences, and budget. Some types of braces, such as metal or ceramic braces, are more powerful and efficient in moving your teeth than others, such as lingual braces or clear aligners. Some types of braces, such as clear aligners, are more convenient and comfortable than others, but they require more compliance and discipline from you.