WHITFORD CITY ORTHODONTICS
(08) 9307 4033
CURRAMBINE ORTHODONTICS
CURRAMBINE ORTHODONTICS
(08) 9407 3800

Faqs

No. A referral letter is not required to see an orthodontist. That means you can make an appointment without one. However, many dentists provide a referral as a courtesy to your orthodontist.

Early examination and treatment are always the best option. However, many adults now seek orthodontic treatment too. In fact, we treat many adults in our practice.

Examination
The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends children visit the orthodontist when they are approximately 7 or 8 years of age. That way, problems can be identified early and optimal treatment strategies, including start times, can be determined. If in doubt about when to start treatment, visit your dentist and ask for a referral. Or call our practice (link to contact info) directly. A treatment plan can then be developed based on the orthodontist’s examination.

Treatment
Orthodontic treatment generally occurs when all the baby teeth are lost. This usually happens when a person is in their early teenage years. Sometimes, it is optimal to start treatment before the last baby teeth are lost. Early treatment is preferred because better results are achieved when the face and jaw are still growing. Treatment at a young age may:

  • Help to prevent serious problems when a person is older.
  • Reduce the severity of problems down the track.
  • Make future problems less complicated.

Adults
In the past, it was rare for adults to seek orthodontic treatment. Today, many adults see an orthodontist to improve their bite or crooked teeth. Because an adult’s jaw has stopped growing, a multi-faceted treatment approach is often used to attain excellent cosmetic results.

There are no prescribed fees for treatment with braces. This is because the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission views fee fixing as anti-competitive. As such, orthodontists may set their own fees. Of course, this means fees can vary. Speak to your orthodontist about obtaining a quote for their services.

Finally, do not begin treatment until a fee is agreed upon. The agreement should be in writing and include a payment plan.

Traditional braces are an accurate and affordable way to move teeth. However, there are alternative methods available that may work depending on your situation.

An orthodontist can assess whether these methods are suitable for you.
Alternatives methods to traditional braces include clear aligners and ceramic braces. Read more

Unfortunately, the answer is no. Severe orthodontic problems must be corrected using traditional braces. This is because braces provide the best quality result compared with non-traditional methods.

Usually anywhere between 1 year and 3 years. Treatment duration is dependent on how quickly your teeth move, how much movement is required, and whether there are any underlying bite or jaw issues that need to be corrected.

Some people opt for “six front teeth” braces which are aimed at changing aesthetics rather than providing therapeutic treatment. However, these do not ‘fix’ any issues; and if you opt for this treatment without correcting underlying problems (such as misaligned jaws), you may experience an increased risk of jaw pain, bite problems and relapse down the track.

If you need to get teeth removed or have any other surgery (e.g. jaw surgery or wisdom teeth removed), you may need to factor in longer time frames due to healing and more involved treatment. Talk to us when you come in to see us as part of your individualised consultation.

There is no one size fits all answer. With proper patient evaluation, diagnosis and treatment planning by your orthodontist, you can be comfortable that any prescribed extractions will only be beneficial to the patient being treated. Orthodontists do not recommend elective extractions when there is any risk of negative side effects on their patient’s general well being, smile appearance and facial aesthetics.

A dentist who also practices orthodontics is not a specialist orthodontist. A specialist orthodontist:

  • Has completed a 3 year full time specialist course, in addition to the general dental degree.
  • Belongs to the Australian Society of Orthodontists (ASO)

Dentists who perform some orthodontic treatment have not completed full time university training in orthodontics. Their background generally includes:

  • A shorter training period.
  • A less-comprehensive course.

Ultimately, the choice between specialist and non-specialist treatment is yours. If you decide to engage a non-specialist, we recommend seeking at least one specialist opinion first. Make sure the specialist is a member of the ASO.

There are roughly three stages, stage one is treatment planning, stage two is the active phase, and the final stage is the retention phase. Read more

We offer payment plans and a discounted fee if payment is done in a single upfront payment. Please speak to us regarding a plan that will suit you.

We accept Visa, Mastercard and American Express credit cards, and there is no surcharge. We also accept direct deposits, cheques, or cash payments.

Orthodontic treatment is not covered under Medicare. If you are a member of a Health Fund, we recommend that you check your plan and speak to your Health Fund provider as you may be eligible for a rebate.