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Orthodontics
Orthodontics in Diggers Rest, Caroline Springs, Hillside, Taylors Lake & Sydenham
Considering orthodontic treatment? At Diggers Rest Dental House, we assess alignment and bite concerns carefully to determine the most appropriate approach for your age, needs, and circumstances.
When Alignment Is Affecting How Your Teeth Function
Crowded, spaced, or misaligned teeth don’t just affect appearance. They can make cleaning harder, place uneven pressure on teeth and jaw joints, and affect how you bite and chew over time. Orthodontic treatment addresses these concerns gradually through controlled tooth movement.
What Is Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment uses braces and specialised appliances to gradually move teeth into improved positions over time. Options include traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, palatal expansion devices, and growth guidance appliances for younger patients, each suited to different case types and ages.
Treatment typically involves comprehensive assessment, appliance placement, regular adjustment appointments over months to years, and a retention phase to support the alignment achieved. Early intervention in children around ages 8-9 can allow for growth guidance, while adolescent treatment often makes effective use of active growth periods. Adult cases may require a different approach depending on complexity. Duration and outcomes depend on case complexity, age, and how consistently treatment is followed.
Is Orthodontic Treatment the Right Approach for You?
Orthodontic treatment may be worth exploring if the following apply, though individual assessment is always required first.
What the Treatment Process Typically Involves
Treatment varies considerably depending on age, alignment concerns, and appliance type, but most patients can expect the following stages:
Initial orthodontic assessment
Detailed examination with X-rays, photographs, and impressions to evaluate alignment issues and develop appropriate treatment options. (1-2 appointments, typically 90-120 minutes total)
Treatment planning and appliance selection
Treatment options, duration estimates, and costs are discussed, and the most appropriate approach is selected for your situation. (Same visit or follow-up consultation)
Appliance placement
The chosen orthodontic appliance is carefully fitted, initial adjustments made, and comprehensive care instructions provided. (1 appointment, typically 60-120 minutes depending on appliance type)
Regular adjustment appointments
Periodic visits for appliance adjustments, progress monitoring, and addressing any concerns throughout the active treatment phase. (Every 4-8 weeks throughout treatment, typically 30-45 minutes each)
Treatment completion and appliance removal
A final assessment is conducted, appliances are removed, and the retention phase is planned to support long-term results. (1-2 appointments for completion and retention planning)
Retention phase
Retainers are provided and monitored to prevent relapse, with ongoing appointments to confirm long-term stability. (Periodic visits for retention monitoring and adjustments as needed)
Initial orthodontic assessment
Detailed examination with X-rays, photographs, and impressions to evaluate alignment issues and develop appropriate treatment options. (1-2 appointments, typically 90-120 minutes total)
Treatment planning and appliance selection
Treatment options, duration estimates, and costs are discussed, and the most appropriate approach is selected for your situation. (Same visit or follow-up consultation)
Appliance placement
The chosen orthodontic appliance is carefully fitted, initial adjustments made, and comprehensive care instructions provided. (1 appointment, typically 60-120 minutes depending on appliance type)
Regular adjustment appointments
Periodic visits for appliance adjustments, progress monitoring, and addressing any concerns throughout the active treatment phase. (Every 4-8 weeks throughout treatment, typically 30-45 minutes each)
Treatment completion and appliance removal
A final assessment is conducted, appliances are removed, and the retention phase is planned to support long-term results. (1-2 appointments for completion and retention planning)
Retention phase
Retainers are provided and monitored to prevent relapse, with ongoing appointments to confirm long-term stability. (Periodic visits for retention monitoring and adjustments as needed)
Risks & Recovery
Orthodontic treatment is a well-established approach to tooth alignment, though it involves an extended commitment and carries risks worth understanding from the outset.
Potential risks include:
- Gum irritation, mouth ulcers, or soft tissue discomfort from appliances and adjustments
- Increased risk of decay or gum disease if oral hygiene is not maintained carefully during treatment
- Temporary discomfort and some dietary adjustments following placement or major adjustments
- Root shortening, tooth mobility, or relapse if retention protocols are not followed after treatment
Recovery considerations:
- Some discomfort in the days following placement or significant adjustments is normal
- A softer diet during adjustment periods helps minimise discomfort and protect appliances
- Thorough oral hygiene throughout treatment is essential to prevent complications
- Regular professional monitoring supports progress and oral health for the duration of treatment
Invest in Your Oral Health
Quality dental care is an investment in your long-term health and wellbeing. Download our comprehensive price guide today.
Any questions?
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment duration varies significantly based on case complexity, age, and the appliance used, typically ranging from 12 to 36 months. We’ll provide a realistic estimate based on your individual assessment rather than a general timeframe.
Will it be uncomfortable?
Some discomfort following placement and adjustments is normal and typically lasts a few days. Most patients adapt well to their appliances, and any discomfort is generally manageable with over-the-counter pain relief as needed.
What happens if I don’t wear my retainers after treatment?
Without consistent retainer wear, teeth can gradually shift back toward their original positions. Retainers are a long-term commitment, and how consistently they’re worn directly affects how well results are maintained over time.
Making Your Smile Affordable
We offer flexible payment plans to suit your budget. Get the dental care you need, when you need it.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you'd like to explore orthodontic options for yourself or a family member, get in touch with our Diggers Rest team today to arrange a consultation.
Disclaimer: The material posted is for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Results vary with each patient. Any dental procedure carries risks and benefits. If you have any specific questions about any dental and/or medical matter, you should consult your dentist, physician or other professional healthcare providers.
Medically Reviewed by Dr Christina Xia, DDS
Last Reviewed: July 24, 2026
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