Orthodontist Melton

Booking an appointment with our experienced Orthodontist in Melton is easy! You can either call our clinic directly (03) 9743 7375 or book an appointment online through our website. One of our team members will get in touch with you to confirm your appointment.

While braces can be effective at any age, it’s generally recommended to start orthodontic treatment between the ages of 10 and 14, when the permanent teeth are coming through. However, more adults are opting for orthodontic treatment, whether through clear aligners or traditional braces, to straighten their teeth and address orthodontic issues. Your Melton Orthodontist will assess your individual case and recommend the most suitable time for treatment based on your dental health and goals.

The length of your treatment will depend on the severity of your orthodontic issues. On average, it can take anywhere from 18 to 24 months, but this can vary. The orthodontist will provide an estimated timeframe based on your specific needs, and regular adjustments will be made to ensure the best outcome.

The process of getting braces involves several steps, from the preliminary evaluation to the final removal of the braces, each designed to ensure the intended outcome for your dental health.

Initial Consultation and Assessment

The journey to straighter teeth begins with an initial consultation with an experienced Orthodontist in Melton. During this appointment, the orthodontist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and jaws using various dental tools. This may include taking X-rays to assess the underlying bone structure and to identify any issues such as tooth decay or the potential to contract gum disease. The goal is to evaluate the current state of your oral health and the specific orthodontic needs, whether it’s correcting an overbite, closing gaps, or aligning crowded teeth.

Developing a Customised Treatment Plan

After the preliminary evaluation, your Orthodontist in Melton will formulate a tailored orthodontic treatment plan that details the most appropriate type of braces for your needs.

Options typically include traditional braces, with metal braces being the most common, and fixed braces, which are adhered to the teeth with dental adhesives. Each option offers different benefits, and the choice will rely on the severity of tooth misalignment and personal preferences.

Preparation for Braces

Before the braces can be applied, any preliminary dental treatment required must be completed. This could involve filling cavities to ensure dental health is at its best before brackets are placed. This step is paramount to avoid any complications that could arise from trapped food and plaque.

Fitting the Braces

The next step is the actual fitting of the braces. During this visit, the dentist will attach the brackets to your teeth utilising a special dental adhesive. This ensures that the brackets stay in place throughout the treatment. The brackets are then connected with archwires, which may be adjusted periodically to guide the teeth into their correct positions.

For traditional braces, the dentist might also install bands around the molars to provide additional support and pressure needed to move the teeth. The entire process is usually comfortable, though some discomfort may be felt as the teeth begin to shift.

Regular Adjustments and Monitoring

With braces, regular follow-up appointments are crucial. These visits allow your Orthodontist in Melton to adjust the tension and positioning of the wires to continue guiding the teeth towards their ideal alignment. These adjustments are necessary to ensure the treatment progresses as planned, with the archwire being changed or tightened to apply the correct amount of pressure to the teeth.

Aftercare and Post-Braces Treatment

Once the braces are removed, the treatment isn’t completely over. To maintain the new position of your teeth and prevent regression, you’ll likely need to wear a retainer. Retainers help hold teeth in their new positions and are important for achieving lasting orthodontic results.

Your orthodontist will provide specific instructions on how often to wear the retainer to maintain the health of your teeth and gums. Follow-up visits will also be scheduled to ensure your oral health remains in good condition.

The process of getting braces is a comprehensive journey that requires commitment and regular care. From the initial consultation to the exciting day the braces come off, each step is designed to move you closer to achieving a healthier, straighter smile. This orthodontic treatment not only enhances aesthetics but also improves the functionality of your normal tooth support, contributing to overall oral health.

When undergoing orthodontic treatment, especially with traditional braces or clear aligners, it’s important to choose foods that are gentle on your dental appliances. Navigating your diet after getting braces can be challenging, especially when trying to avoid foods that could damage your new dental hardware. Understanding which foods are safe can help maintain the integrity of your braces and reduce the risk of uncomfortable incidents, such as breaking a bracket or wire. Here are some brace-friendly foods that promote both comfort and nutrition.

Soft Fruits and Vegetables

Soft Fruits: Fruits are vital for a balanced diet, but when you have braces, it’s important to choose fruits that are soft and easy to chew. Bananas, berries, and grapes are excellent choices because they require little chewing and are less likely to get stuck in your braces. Avoid hard fruits like apples and pears unless they are cut into small, manageable pieces.

Cooked Vegetables: While raw vegetables can pose a risk to braces due to their hardness, cooking them makes them softer and safer to eat. Steamed vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, and squash are full of nutrients and gentle on your braces. This method of preparation ensures you can still consume a variety of vegetables without the risk of damaging your orthodontic appliances.

Dairy and Dairy Alternatives

Dairy products are a decent source of calcium, which is paramount for maintaining strong teeth and bones. Soft cheeses like brie, camembert, and cottage cheese are easy on braces and can be consumed without concern. Yoghurt, especially varieties without added nuts or granola, is also brace-friendly and can be a part of your daily diet.

Soft Proteins

Tender Meats and Fish: Protein is essential for overall health, and choosing softer options makes eating with braces much easier. Fish that flake easily, like salmon and tuna, are great options. Similarly, tender cuts of meat, such as chicken or turkey breasts that have been well-cooked can be eaten without much effort. Tough meats, or those cooked to a harder texture, should be avoided as they can place too much pressure on braces.

Eggs and Tofu: Eggs are versatile and soft, making them an excellent choice for anyone wearing braces. They can be prepared in various ways—boiled, scrambled, or poached—all of which are safe for braces. Tofu is another excellent protein source that is naturally soft and easy to incorporate into many meals without risking damage to your braces.

Carbohydrates

Soft carbohydrates are less likely to cause issues with braces. Pasta, thoroughly cooked to a soft texture, is ideal as it requires minimal chewing. Soft breads without hard crusts or seeds are also safe, as well as cereals that soften when mixed with milk.

Snacks and Sweets

Occasionally, you might want sweets or snacks. Opt for soft options like puddings, mousses, or soft cakes. Avoid anything sticky, hard, or chewy, such as caramel or hard candies, as these can damage the wires and brackets of your braces.

Maintaining a varied and nutritious diet while wearing braces doesn’t have to be a challenge. By choosing foods that are gentle on your braces, you can enjoy delicious meals without compromising your dental care routine. Remember to follow these guidelines to protect your orthodontic investment while still enjoying your meals.

Aligners aren’t suitable for everyone, and braces may be the only option for straightening the teeth. For further information about orthodontic braces, our dental team is here to give guidance and advice.

Brushing

Brush your teeth at least three times a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay special attention to each bracket and the areas around the wires to remove food particles and plaque. This helps avoid tooth decay and gum disease.

Flossing

Choose floss intended for braces, like waxed floss or a floss threader, to thoroughly clean between your teeth and below the wires on a daily basis. This step is crucial to remove any trapped food and prevent plaque buildup.

Habits

Avoid actions that may compromise your braces, like nail biting or gnawing on pen tips.

Taking care of your braces involves diligent cleaning and keeping away from habits that can harm your braces. By following these guidelines, you’ll make your orthodontic journey as effective and comfortable as possible.

Clear aligners are a popular option for those wanting a more discreet way to straighten their teeth. However, they may not be suitable for all cases, especially if you have more complex orthodontic issues like jaw misalignment or severely crooked teeth. Your orthodontist will evaluate whether clear aligners or traditional braces are the better option for achieving your desired results of getting straight teeth.