Smile Solutions - Melbourne's Home of Dentistry: Orthodontics

Explore Smile Solutions Orthodontics products and solutions.

Smile Solutions Orthodontics

Orthodontics is a specialised branch of dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities. At Smile Solutions, we approach orthodontic care with precision and a genuine commitment to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile, whatever your age or starting point. Whether you're exploring treatment for yourself or a family member, understanding the basics of orthodontics helps you make confident, informed decisions about your dental health.

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the dental specialty concerned with the alignment of your teeth and jaws. The word comes from the Greek orthos (straight or correct) and odous (tooth). Orthodontists are dental specialists who have completed additional years of postgraduate training beyond a general dentistry degree, giving them advanced skills to diagnose and treat a wide range of bite and alignment issues.

Orthodontic treatment isn't purely cosmetic. Straighter teeth certainly contribute to a more confident smile, but properly aligned teeth are also easier to clean, less prone to uneven wear, and associated with better long-term oral health. Misaligned teeth and jaws can make chewing, speaking, and in some cases even breathing more difficult. Our specialists are here to help you understand how treatment can benefit your overall health, not just your appearance.

Common orthodontic conditions

Our orthodontists at Smile Solutions treat a broad range of dental and skeletal irregularities. Here are some of the most common conditions orthodontic treatment addresses.

Crowding

Crowding happens when there isn't enough space in your jaw for all your teeth to fit properly. Crowded teeth overlap, twist, or become displaced, making them harder to brush and floss. Left untreated, crowding raises your risk of tooth decay and gum disease, which is why early assessment genuinely matters.

Spacing

The opposite of crowding, spacing refers to gaps between teeth. These may result from missing teeth, teeth that are too small for the jaw, or habits like thumb sucking. Spacing affects both the look of your smile and how your bite functions.

Overbite

An overbite occurs when your upper front teeth overlap excessively with your lower front teeth. A moderate overbite is normal, but a deep overbite can cause the lower teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth, leading to discomfort and enamel wear.

Underbite

An underbite is where the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth when the mouth is closed. This can result from a protruding lower jaw or an underdeveloped upper jaw. Underbites affect chewing efficiency and facial appearance, and they often respond well to early intervention.

Crossbite

A crossbite occurs when some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth rather than outside them. It can affect one tooth or several, involving the front teeth, back teeth, or both. Without correction, crossbites can lead to asymmetrical jaw growth and uneven tooth wear.

Open bite

An open bite is when your upper and lower teeth don't make contact when your mouth is closed. It's most commonly seen in the front teeth and is often associated with thumb sucking or tongue thrusting. Open bites can make biting into food difficult and may affect speech.

Overjet

Overjet is often confused with overbite, but it refers to the horizontal protrusion of the upper front teeth beyond the lower front teeth. A significant overjet increases the risk of trauma to the front teeth and can affect the overall look of your smile.

Orthodontic treatment options

Modern orthodontics offers a range of treatment options to suit different clinical needs, lifestyles, and preferences. At Smile Solutions, you have access to a comprehensive suite of orthodontic solutions, all delivered by qualified specialists using current techniques and technology.

Traditional metal braces

Metal braces remain one of the most effective and widely used orthodontic treatments available. They use metal brackets bonded to the teeth, connected by archwires that apply gentle, consistent pressure to gradually move your teeth into position. Today's metal braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more efficient than older versions.

Metal braces are particularly well-suited to complex cases involving significant tooth movement or skeletal discrepancies. They offer precise control over tooth positioning and are generally the most cost-effective option for comprehensive treatment.

Ceramic braces

Ceramic braces work the same way as metal braces but use tooth-coloured or clear ceramic brackets that blend more naturally with your teeth. They're a popular choice for patients who want the clinical effectiveness of traditional braces with a less noticeable look.

Ceramic braces are slightly more fragile than metal ones and require careful attention to oral hygiene, as the brackets can stain if not properly maintained. They're typically recommended for older teenagers and adults with established oral hygiene habits.

Clear aligner therapy

Clear aligner therapy has genuinely changed orthodontic treatment over the past two decades. It uses a series of custom-made, removable plastic aligners worn over your teeth, each one designed to move your teeth incrementally towards their final position.

Clear aligners are virtually invisible when worn, which makes them appealing for adults and teenagers who are self-conscious about the look of traditional braces. Because they're removable, you can eat and drink without restrictions and keep up your normal oral hygiene routine without much fuss.

Clear aligner therapy works for a wide range of cases, from mild to moderately complex alignment issues. That said, success depends heavily on compliance. Aligners need to be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day to achieve the results your orthodontist has planned.

Lingual braces

Lingual braces are attached to the inner, tongue-facing surfaces of your teeth rather than the outer surfaces, so they're completely hidden from view. They offer the precision of traditional fixed braces with the benefit of being invisible when you smile.

Lingual braces require a high level of technical skill to fit and adjust, and they take some getting used to in terms of tongue comfort and speech. They're typically recommended for patients with specific aesthetic concerns who aren't suitable candidates for clear aligner therapy.

Retainers

Retainers maintain the position of your teeth after active orthodontic treatment is complete. They're a critical part of any treatment plan, because teeth naturally tend to shift back towards their original positions once the active phase ends.

Retainers may be removable (worn at night or as directed) or fixed (bonded to the back surfaces of the teeth). The type recommended for you will depend on your individual case and your orthodontist's judgement.

The orthodontic treatment process

Knowing what to expect from orthodontic treatment helps you feel prepared from the very first appointment. While the specifics vary depending on your circumstances and the treatment chosen, the general process at Smile Solutions follows a clear, structured pathway.

Initial consultation

Your orthodontic journey begins with a thorough consultation. Your orthodontist will take a detailed medical and dental history, examine your teeth and jaws, and may take X-rays, photographs, and digital scans or impressions of your teeth. This information is used to reach an accurate diagnosis and develop a personalised treatment plan.

The consultation is also your chance to ask questions, raise concerns, and explore your options. Understanding your proposed treatment, its duration, cost, and expected outcomes, is essential before you decide to proceed.

Treatment planning

Once your diagnostic records have been reviewed, your orthodontist will develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. This will outline the recommended approach, the estimated duration, and any preparatory work required, such as tooth extractions to create space.

For patients undergoing clear aligner therapy, a digital treatment simulation may be provided so you can see a projected outcome before treatment even begins.

Active treatment

The active phase is the period during which your teeth are being moved. Depending on the complexity of your case and the treatment chosen, this phase may last anywhere from several months to a few years.

During active treatment, you'll attend regular appointments for adjustments, progress checks, and new aligners if you're on clear aligner therapy. These appointments are typically scheduled every four to eight weeks.

Maintaining good oral hygiene during active treatment is essential. With fixed braces, take care to brush around brackets and wires and use interdental brushes or floss threaders to clean between your teeth.

Retention

The retention phase begins once active treatment is complete. Retainers are essential for preserving your results, and you'll be advised on how long and how often to wear yours. Regular check-ups may be recommended to monitor stability over time.

Retention is a long-term commitment. While the frequency of retainer wear may decrease over time, most orthodontists recommend some form of ongoing retention to protect the results you've worked for.

Orthodontics for children

The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic assessment by age seven. By this point, the first permanent molars and incisors have typically erupted, allowing your orthodontist to evaluate the developing bite and identify potential issues early.

An early assessment doesn't necessarily mean early treatment. In many cases, your orthodontist will simply monitor your child's development and step in at the most appropriate time. In some situations, though, early intervention can simplify or significantly reduce the need for more extensive treatment later.

Interceptive orthodontics

Interceptive orthodontics, sometimes called Phase 1 treatment, involves early intervention to address specific problems before all the permanent teeth have erupted. This may include space maintainers, palatal expanders, or partial braces to guide jaw development and create space for incoming teeth.

Interceptive treatment isn't appropriate for every child, and the decision to proceed should always be based on a careful assessment of the likely benefits relative to the time, cost, and effort involved. Our orthodontic specialists will give you an honest, thorough recommendation.

Orthodontics for adults

Orthodontic treatment isn't just for children and teenagers. A significant and growing proportion of orthodontic patients are adults, and treatment can be highly effective at any age, provided your teeth and supporting structures are healthy.

Adults seek orthodontic treatment for a range of reasons, whether to improve the look of their smile, correct functional problems, or prepare for other dental procedures such as implants or crowns that require teeth to be in the correct position first.

At Smile Solutions, we understand that adult patients often have specific concerns about the visibility of orthodontic appliances and the impact of treatment on their professional and social lives. The range of discreet options available, including clear aligners and lingual braces, makes it easier than ever to pursue orthodontic treatment without compromising your confidence.

Orthodontics and restorative dentistry

In many adult cases, orthodontic treatment is carried out alongside restorative or cosmetic dental procedures. Orthodontic treatment may be used to close gaps or redistribute spacing before dental implants or bridges are placed, or to improve alignment prior to veneers or crowns for a more predictable and aesthetically pleasing result.

This kind of interdisciplinary treatment requires close collaboration between your orthodontist and other dental specialists, which is exactly the approach we take at Smile Solutions. Our specialists work together so you receive coordinated care under one roof.

Factors affecting treatment duration and outcome

Several factors influence how long your orthodontic treatment will take and how successful the outcome will be.

Severity of the condition

More complex cases involving significant tooth movement, skeletal discrepancies, or interdisciplinary treatment will generally take longer than straightforward ones. An accurate assessment of complexity at the outset helps ensure your treatment plan is realistic and achievable.

Patient age

Orthodontic treatment tends to progress more quickly in younger patients because the bones and tissues are still developing and more responsive to the forces applied by orthodontic appliances. Adult treatment may take somewhat longer, though modern techniques and materials have reduced this difference considerably.

Patient compliance

For removable appliances such as clear aligners and functional appliances, compliance is one of the most significant factors affecting outcome. Patients who wear their appliances as directed are far more likely to achieve their desired results within the estimated timeframe.

Oral health

Active tooth decay or gum disease must be addressed before orthodontic treatment can begin. Moving teeth through unhealthy supporting structures can cause lasting damage and compromise your outcome. Maintaining good oral health throughout treatment is equally important.

The importance of choosing a qualified orthodontist

Orthodontics is a recognised dental specialty in Australia, and only dentists who have completed an approved specialist training programme are entitled to use the title "orthodontist." Choosing a registered specialist gives you the assurance that your treatment is being managed by a clinician with the highest level of training and clinical accountability in this field.

At Smile Solutions, orthodontic treatment is provided exclusively by qualified specialists committed to evidence-based, patient-centred care. Our orthodontic team works closely with other dental specialists within the practice to ensure a coordinated approach to your care at every stage.

Caring for your teeth during orthodontic treatment

Good oral hygiene matters more than usual during orthodontic treatment, when food particles and plaque can accumulate more easily around brackets, wires, and aligners. A thorough, consistent routine will protect your teeth and help you get the best possible result.

Brushing

With fixed braces, brush after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Angle your toothbrush to clean around and beneath the archwire and along the gumline. Electric toothbrushes work well and are worth considering.

With clear aligners, remove them before eating and brush your teeth before reinserting them. This prevents food and bacteria from being trapped against the tooth surface, which can lead to decay and staining.

Flossing

Flossing with fixed braces requires a floss threader or orthodontic floss to navigate beneath the archwire. Interdental brushes are also useful for cleaning between brackets. Water flossers can be a helpful addition if you find conventional flossing difficult.

Diet

With fixed braces, avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage brackets or dislodge wires. Raw carrots, hard nuts, toffee, and chewing gum are best avoided during treatment. Cutting food into small pieces and chewing with your back teeth helps reduce the risk of bracket damage.

With clear aligners, always remove them before eating or drinking anything other than water. Coloured beverages can stain the aligners, and food trapped against your teeth can promote decay.

Regular dental check-ups

Orthodontic treatment doesn't replace the need for regular dental check-ups and professional cleans. Continue seeing your general dentist at recommended intervals throughout your orthodontic treatment to monitor your oral health and address any issues that come up.

Frequently asked questions about orthodontics

At what age should orthodontic treatment begin?

There's no single correct age. An initial assessment by age seven is recommended to identify developing issues early. Active treatment most commonly begins in the early teenage years, when most permanent teeth have erupted. Adults can benefit from orthodontic treatment at any age, so if you've been putting it off, a consultation is a good place to start.

Is orthodontic treatment painful?

Generally, no. You may experience some soreness in the days following the placement of braces or the fitting of a new aligner, but this is typically mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. Most patients adapt to their appliances quickly.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Treatment duration varies depending on the complexity of your case, your age, and the treatment chosen. Simple cases may be completed in as little as six to twelve months, while more complex cases may take two years or longer. Your orthodontist will give you an estimated timeframe based on your individual circumstances during your initial consultation.

Will I need to have teeth extracted?

Not always. Tooth extraction may be recommended in cases of significant crowding or where the teeth can't be aligned without creating a balanced, functional bite. The decision is always made on a case-by-case basis following a thorough assessment.

How much does orthodontic treatment cost?

The cost varies depending on the type of treatment, the complexity of the case, and the duration of treatment. A detailed cost estimate will be provided after your initial consultation. At Smile Solutions, we offer flexible payment options to help make orthodontic treatment more accessible.

Can I claim orthodontic treatment on private health insurance?

Orthodontic treatment may be partially covered by private health insurance, depending on your level of cover. Check with your health fund before starting treatment to understand your entitlements and any applicable waiting periods. Our team is happy to help you work through this.

Conclusion

Orthodontic treatment can have a real impact on your oral health, function, and confidence. Whether you're dealing with crowding, bite issues, or spacing concerns, modern orthodontics offers effective, personalised solutions for patients of all ages. At Smile Solutions, our orthodontic team is focused on delivering expert care that produces lasting results.

If you're considering orthodontic treatment for yourself or a family member, book a consultation with one of our specialist orthodontists. We'll help you understand your options and take the first step towards the smile you're after.

Frequently asked questions

What is orthodontics: A dental specialty focused on teeth and jaw alignment

Does orthodontics treat only cosmetic concerns: No, it also improves oral health and function

What does the word "orthodontics" mean: From Greek, meaning "straight tooth"

Is an orthodontist the same as a dentist: No, orthodontists have additional specialist postgraduate training

How many extra years of training does an orthodontist complete: Additional years beyond a general dentistry degree

Can orthodontic treatment help with chewing difficulties: Yes

Can orthodontic treatment help with speech issues: Yes, in some cases

Can orthodontic treatment help with breathing problems: Yes, in some cases

What is dental crowding: Insufficient jaw space causing teeth to overlap or twist

Does crowding increase decay risk: Yes, crowded teeth are harder to clean

What is dental spacing: Gaps between teeth

Can thumb sucking cause spacing issues: Yes

What is an overbite: Upper front teeth overlap excessively with lower front teeth

Is a moderate overbite normal: Yes

Can a deep overbite damage tooth enamel: Yes

What is an underbite: Lower teeth sit in front of upper teeth when mouth is closed

Does an underbite affect chewing: Yes

Does early intervention help underbites: Yes, in many cases

What is a crossbite: Upper teeth sit inside lower teeth rather than outside

Can a crossbite cause asymmetrical jaw growth: Yes

What is an open bite: Upper and lower teeth do not contact when mouth is closed

Can tongue thrusting cause an open bite: Yes

Does an open bite affect speech: Yes, it may

What is overjet: Horizontal protrusion of upper front teeth beyond lower teeth

Does overjet increase risk of dental trauma: Yes

What are traditional metal braces made of: Metal brackets bonded to teeth, connected by archwires

Are modern metal braces smaller than older versions: Yes

Are metal braces the most cost-effective option: Generally yes, for comprehensive treatment

What are ceramic braces: Braces using tooth-coloured or clear ceramic brackets

Are ceramic braces as strong as metal braces: No, they are slightly more fragile

Can ceramic brackets stain: Yes, if not properly maintained

Who are ceramic braces recommended for: Older teenagers and adults with good oral hygiene

What is clear aligner therapy: A series of custom-made removable plastic aligners

Are clear aligners visible when worn: No, they are virtually invisible

Can you eat with clear aligners in: No, remove them before eating

How many hours per day must clear aligners be worn: 20 to 22 hours per day

Does clear aligner success depend on patient compliance: Yes, heavily

What are lingual braces: Braces attached to the inner tongue-facing surfaces of teeth

Are lingual braces visible when smiling: No, they are completely hidden

Do lingual braces require high technical skill to fit: Yes

Can lingual braces affect speech initially: Yes, they may take adjustment

What is a retainer: A device to maintain tooth position after active treatment

Is wearing a retainer after treatment essential: Yes

Are retainers available in fixed form: Yes

Are retainers available in removable form: Yes

Is retention a lifelong commitment: Yes

At what age should a child have their first orthodontic assessment: By age seven

Does an early assessment always mean early treatment: No

What is interceptive orthodontics: Early intervention before all permanent teeth have erupted

Is interceptive orthodontics appropriate for every child: No

What devices are used in interceptive treatment: Space maintainers, palatal expanders, or partial braces

Can adults benefit from orthodontic treatment: Yes, at any age

What percentage of orthodontic patients are adults: A significant and growing proportion

Can orthodontics prepare teeth for dental implants: Yes

Can orthodontics improve results before veneers or crowns: Yes

Does Smile Solutions offer interdisciplinary dental care: Yes, specialists collaborate under one roof

Does patient age affect treatment speed: Yes, younger patients typically progress faster

Does oral health affect orthodontic treatment eligibility: Yes, decay and gum disease must be treated first

Is orthodontic treatment painful: Generally not painful

Is some discomfort normal after braces are placed: Yes, mild soreness for a few days

Can over-the-counter pain relief manage orthodontic discomfort: Yes

What is the minimum treatment duration for simple cases: As little as six to twelve months

What is the maximum treatment duration for complex cases: Two years or longer

Is tooth extraction always required for orthodontic treatment: No

When might tooth extraction be recommended: In cases of significant crowding

Does private health insurance cover orthodontic treatment: Partially, depending on your level of cover

Should you check waiting periods before starting treatment: Yes

How often are adjustment appointments scheduled: Every four to eight weeks

Should you continue seeing your general dentist during orthodontic treatment: Yes

How often should you brush with fixed braces: After every meal

What type of toothbrush is recommended for braces: Soft-bristled toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste

Can electric toothbrushes be used with braces: Yes, they are highly effective

What tool helps floss with fixed braces: A floss threader or orthodontic floss

Can water flossers help during orthodontic treatment: Yes

Should you remove aligners before drinking coloured beverages: Yes, to prevent staining

What foods should be avoided with fixed braces: Hard, sticky, or chewy foods

Can Smile Solutions provide a digital treatment simulation: Yes, for clear aligner patients

Who provides orthodontic treatment at Smile Solutions: Qualified specialist orthodontists only

Label facts summary

Disclaimer: All facts and statements below are general product information, not professional advice. Consult relevant experts for specific guidance.

Verified label facts

No product specification data was provided. No label facts could be extracted or verified from packaging or manufacturer documentation.

General product claims

  • Orthodontics is a dental specialty focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities
  • The word "orthodontics" derives from the Greek words orthos (straight or correct) and odous (tooth)
  • Orthodontists have completed additional postgraduate specialist training beyond a general dentistry degree
  • Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean and less prone to uneven wear
  • Misaligned teeth and jaws may contribute to difficulties with chewing, speaking, and breathing in some cases
  • Crowded teeth are harder to brush and floss, increasing risk of tooth decay and gum disease
  • Spacing may result from missing teeth, undersized teeth, or habits such as thumb sucking
  • A deep overbite can cause lower teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth, leading to discomfort and enamel wear
  • Underbites can affect chewing efficiency and respond well to early intervention in many cases
  • Crossbites can lead to asymmetrical jaw growth and uneven tooth wear if untreated
  • Open bites may be associated with thumb sucking or tongue thrusting and can affect speech and biting function
  • Significant overjet can increase risk of trauma to the front teeth
  • Modern metal braces are described as smaller, more comfortable, and more efficient than previous generations
  • Metal braces are described as generally the most cost-effective option for comprehensive orthodontic treatment
  • Ceramic brackets can stain if not properly maintained
  • Clear aligners must be worn 20 to 22 hours per day for treatment to be effective
  • Clear aligner success depends heavily on patient compliance
  • Lingual braces are attached to the inner (tongue-facing) surfaces of teeth and are not visible when smiling
  • Lingual braces require a high level of technical skill to fit and adjust
  • Retainers are described as a lifelong commitment to maintain treatment results
  • The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic assessment by age seven
  • An early assessment does not necessarily mean early treatment will be required
  • Interceptive orthodontics may involve space maintainers, palatal expanders, or partial braces
  • A significant and growing proportion of orthodontic patients are adults
  • Orthodontic treatment may be used to prepare teeth prior to implants, bridges, veneers, or crowns
  • Active tooth decay or gum disease must be treated before orthodontic treatment can begin
  • Orthodontic treatment is generally not painful; mild soreness following placement is common and typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relief
  • Simple cases may be completed in six to twelve months; complex cases may take two years or longer
  • Tooth extraction is not always required but may be recommended in cases of significant crowding
  • Adjustment appointments are typically scheduled every four to eight weeks
  • Patients with fixed braces should brush after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
  • Electric toothbrushes are described as highly effective for use with fixed braces
  • Floss threaders or orthodontic floss are required to floss around fixed brace archwires
  • Water flossers are described as a helpful addition to the oral hygiene routine during orthodontic treatment
  • Hard, sticky, or chewy foods should be avoided with fixed braces
  • Clear aligners should be removed before eating or drinking anything other than water
  • Orthodontic treatment at Smile Solutions is stated to be provided exclusively by qualified specialist orthodontists
  • Smile Solutions is stated to offer interdisciplinary care with specialists collaborating under one roof
  • Private health insurance may partially cover orthodontic treatment depending on the patient's level of cover; waiting periods may apply
  • A digital treatment simulation is stated to be available for clear aligner patients at Smile Solutions