Orthodontics

Orthodontics is used to straighten misaligned teeth, correct bite discrepancies, and improve people’s appearance. The most common forms of treatment are braces and Invisalign.

In some cases, where there are problems with the size and/or shape of the actual jaw bones and not just with the position of the teeth in the jaw bones, surgery is used to alter the shape of jaw bones. It is absolutely essential that anyone who has had any form of orthodontic treatment should wear the retainers provided by the orthodontist.

We refer all our orthodontic patients to a specialist orthodontist. Prior to any treatment, the orthodontist will need a full set of records, comprising X-Rays, photographs and study models. Using these records, he will plan the treatment, in some cases in collaboration with us and/or with other specialists.

Braces

Traditional braces  have metal brackets that are bonded to the teeth, with a wire passing through the brackets. The wire is held in place by small elastics bands that fit over the wire and hook onto the brackets. There are also self ligating braces that do not require the elastic bands. In these brackets, the wire is held in place by small clips in the brackets. The orthodontist will select the bracket type most suited to your treatment.

For patients who want a less visible, more discreet, solution to straightening their teeth than traditional metal braces, an option is clear or ceramic braces. Ceramic braces use the same principles as traditional braces, except the brackets are transparent or tooth-coloured. While not totally invisible, clear brackets are significantly less conspicuous.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a revolutionary way to treat crooked or misaligned teeth. In many cases, Invisalign can be used instead of conventional braces, allowing a more comfortable, hygienic and lifestyle-friendly solution to correcting problems with smiles, because there are no brackets or wires, Invisalign allows for almost invisible treatment.

Not all situations can be treated with Invisalign. The orthodontist will carefully assess your teeth and bone structure to ensure that Invisalign will be suitable for you, before embarking on any treatment.

For treatment with Invisalign a series of custom made, hospital-grade clear plastic “aligners”  is made. The Invisalign aligners are designed and produced specifically for your teeth. The process starts with taking impressions of your teeth which are sent to the Invisalign headquarters. At the Invisalign headquarters, a treatment plan is worked out and the aligners are made in accordance with that plan. 3-D computer imaging technology allows the orthodontist to show your or your child’s complete treatment plan, indicating the expected progress and end result even before treatment commences!

Invisalign liner for invisible braces

Need more information?

For more information about our dental practice in general, or if you have a specific question about your dental care needs, please call us on (02) 8883 4560, email our dental practice at [email protected] or send us a message below and we will do our best to help you.

    How can our dental practice help you with your dental care needs?

    Whether your dental care needs are a regular dental check-up or you require more comprehensive dental care, the team at our dental practice will do our best to provide you with the best possible advice and care.

    Dr. KEN LIPWORTH, BDS
    Dr. KEN LIPWORTH, BDSDentist
    DEBRA EGELTON
    DEBRA EGELTONPractice Manager

    Want more information about our dental practice?

    For more information about our dental practice in general, or if you have a specific question about your dental care needs, please call us on (02) 8883 4560, email our dental practice at [email protected] or send us a message below and we will do our best to help you.