The Treatment Process
Initial Consultation
Every appointment you have with us is important but the first one, for the new patient assessment, is of particular importance. We hope it will be the foundation of a long and rewarding relationship.
Your initial appointment begins with us taking a set of photographs and x-rays of your profile and bite, immediately followed by a consultation with the orthodontist. The initial appointment is an examination of the teeth and bite, followed by a general discussion of all orthodontic issues. The discussion will cover your possible treatment plan (if treatment has been recommended at all for the moment), the cost of the treatment including payment methods, how long the treatment is likely to take, and when your next appointment will be. The appointment is 40 minutes and it is important that a parent or guardian also attends if you are under the age of 18.
Treatment Begins
Depending on your treatment plan, we will let you know of the series of appointments required for your appliance. We will need to take a mould or a digital scan of your arches so that the orthodontist can plan for your appliance. Once it is ready you will come in to have the appliance placed and we will also take some time to show you how to care for it. The appointment will take approximately one hour on that day.
Regular Appointments and Adjustments
Your adjustment appointments are usually scheduled every 6-8 weeks and the time may vary each time depending on the type of appointment and what is required. (eg. Appointments can be 5min, 10min, 15min, or longer).
Living with an Orthodontic Appliance
During treatment we recommend maintaining excellent oral hygiene and regular general check up and cleans with your general dentist. There will be a few adjustments to your lifestyle with regards to food, sport and hygiene. However, you can still enjoy many of your favourite food and activities with some preparation.
Removal of Appliance
Once the orthodontist is happy with your results he will plan for the removal of your appliance. At your appointment we will remove your appliance and also take some moulds of your teeth to make retainers to hold your final result. Retainers are a very important part of the whole orthodontic process as we need to hold your teeth in their new positions and stabilise the roots in the bone.
Retention and After Care
Once your retainers are ready, we will fit them and provide instructions on how you need to wear them. At this appointment we will also take your final set of photos so you can see your smile’s transformation. It’s an exciting moment!
Regular appointments will be scheduled to review your retainers and ensure they are fitting correctly.
We ask that you bring your retainers to every appointment so the orthodontist can check on progress/ check on their effectiveness.
