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Orthodontics
Disclaimer: Images are for illustrative purposes only. Individual results and patient outcomes may vary
Orthodontics in Greenvale, Craigieburn, Roxburgh Park, and Melbourne
Watching your child’s teeth come in crooked, or never got around to braces yourself? At Greenvale Dental House, we assess alignment and bite for all ages and match the right appliance to the case.
The Health Side of Straighter Teeth
Crowded, gapped, or misaligned teeth are not only a cosmetic worry. They can make proper cleaning genuinely difficult, put uneven stress on the jaw, and affect how comfortably you chew. We have been helping families across Melbourne’s north-west work through orthodontic decisions for nearly 40 years, for children, teenagers, and adults alike.
Understanding Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment moves teeth gradually into better positions using controlled forces, applied through braces or specialised appliances. The options include traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, palatal expanders for narrow upper jaws, and clear aligners, each suited to different cases and preferences.
The process runs through assessment, treatment planning, fitting the appliance, regular adjustment visits over months to years, and a retention phase to hold the result. Treating children early can help guide jaw development during growth, while treatment in the teenage years takes advantage of active growth. Adult orthodontics is well established, though complex skeletal cases may need a surgical component. Duration and outcome depend on case complexity, age, and how closely the plan is followed, and results vary between patients.
Is Orthodontic Treatment Right for You?
Orthodontic cases vary enormously, and a proper assessment is where any recommendation begins. Generally, a few things need to be in place.
You Have Alignment or Bite Concerns
There are alignment, spacing, or bite issues affecting how you function or making proper cleaning difficult, and your gums and supporting bone are healthy enough to support tooth movement.
You Are Ready for an Extended Treatment Period
Most orthodontic treatment runs between one and three years depending on complexity. Oral hygiene across that time needs to be thorough, because appliances make cleaning harder and letting it slip carries a higher cost.
You Can Attend Regular Appointments
Adjustment visits every four to eight weeks are what keep treatment on track. Going in with realistic expectations about the time involved, the temporary discomfort after adjustments, and the commitment to retention supports the best result.
From First Assessment to Retainer
Treatment looks different depending on age, the alignment issues, and the appliance chosen. Here is the general shape of it.
Comprehensive Orthodontic Assessment
A thorough examination including X-rays, photographs, and study models, to get a complete picture of the alignment and bite before any treatment is planned. (1 to 2 visits, about 90 to 120 minutes total)
Planning and Appliance Selection
The options are talked through clearly, duration estimated, costs outlined, and the most suitable appliance chosen for the case. (Same visit or a follow-up consultation)
Fitting and Initial Instructions
The chosen appliance is carefully placed, the first adjustments made, and clear instructions given on care, hygiene, and what to do if something comes loose or causes unexpected discomfort. (1 visit, about 60 to 120 minutes depending on the appliance)
Regular Adjustments
Periodic visits to adjust the appliance, check progress, and deal with anything that has come up since the last visit. (Every 4 to 8 weeks through treatment, about 30 to 45 minutes each)
Completion and Appliance Removal
A final assessment confirms the teeth are where they need to be, the appliance is removed, and the retention plan is put in place. (1 to 2 visits for completion and retention planning)
Retention
Retainers are provided and monitored over time to keep the result stable. This phase is ongoing and just as important as the active treatment before it. (Periodic visits for monitoring and adjustments as needed)
Risks and Recovery
Orthodontic treatment spans a long period and involves sustained pressure on teeth and the structures around them. Knowing the risks helps you manage the process well.
Possible risks include:
- Gum irritation, ulcers, or soft tissue discomfort from appliances and wires, particularly after adjustments
- A higher risk of decay or gum problems if oral hygiene is not kept up throughout treatment
- Discomfort and some dietary limits following placement or major adjustments
- Root shortening, increased tooth mobility, or relapse if retainers are not worn as prescribed afterwards
Recovery considerations:
- Some discomfort for a few days after placement or adjustments is normal and expected
- Soft foods during adjustment periods help manage discomfort and protect the appliance
- Thorough oral hygiene throughout treatment is non-negotiable, not just advisable
- Regular professional monitoring keeps treatment on track and oral health protected
Invest in Your Oral Health
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Any questions?
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
It varies considerably. Simpler cases can be finished in around 12 months, while more complex alignment or bite issues can take closer to three years. Your dentist will estimate based on your assessment, though that estimate can shift depending on how treatment progresses and how well the appliance is cared for.
Will orthodontic treatment be uncomfortable?
Some discomfort after placement and following adjustments is completely normal. It usually settles within a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Most people adapt to their appliances fairly quickly, though every experience is different.
What happens if I do not wear my retainers afterwards?
Teeth shift. It is close to a certainty without proper retention, because the surrounding bone and fibres take time to fully stabilise in the new position. How much movement happens varies, but losing ground after years of treatment is a frustrating outcome that consistent retainer wear prevents.
Making Your Smile Affordable
We offer flexible payment plans to suit your budget. Get the dental care you need, when you need it.
*Subject to finance approval. Terms and conditions apply.
Start With a Proper Assessment
If you have been thinking about orthodontic treatment for yourself or a family member, the first step is a proper assessment. Book at Greenvale Dental House and we will look at what is going on and give you an honest picture of the options. There is no pressure to decide on the day. Call us or book online to visit Greenvale Dental House.
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.
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