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Orthodontics

Orthodontix / Treatments / Orthodontics

The importance of braces is no secret. They serve a significant dental purpose. Braces are very familiar to most people, especially during the teenage years.
Dental braces have been around for many years. They are used by orthodontists to correct teeth and jaws and help achieve a straight and attractive smile. Braces can straighten, align and position teeth. Most people get braces in their early teenage years but it’s becoming more common now for adults to get braces too. Modern materials have made having braces much more comfortable and attractive than in the past. This has contributed to the increase in the popularity of getting braces.
Overview
Braces are a device used to straighten your teeth. They are glued on by a specialist known as an orthodontist. There's a range of different braces options available. Your orthodontist will recommend the best option for you, after assessing your teeth. Your treatment options vary from fixed braces, to retainers, to Invisalign® treatments and more, for both adults and children.
Fixed brace
These are the more traditional and common type of brace. Small brackets are bonded to the front of the teeth surfaces and then a wire is run through them and held in place with a small coloured elastic band. You can have either plastic or metal brackets.
Invisalign®
Invisalign® treatment involves wearing​ a series of clear thin aligners, a bit like a very thin mouthguard, or tray. Each aligner is worn for two weeks and then the next one in the series is used. Because they are removable, they can be taken out for eating, drinking and sport.
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Braces have been around for thousands of years. They were first invented in the early 1800s and have changed dramatically since then. They're used to fix crooked teeth by straightening them to help you achieve that perfect straight smile, for life.

Apart from making your teeth look great, there's also many important functional reasons for straightening teeth:

  • Crowded and crooked teeth are hard to clean which can, in turn, cause a range of problems in the future

  • Too much space between the teeth, caused by the jaw being too big for the teeth or missing teeth

  • If the upper and lower jaws are misaligned or there's an underbite or overbite

You could also consult a specialist orthodontist if you notice other problems such as difficulty chewing or biting, if your child complains of a clicking jaw, tooth grinding or clenching, speech difficulties and breathing through the mouth instead of the nose.

OrthodontiX is registered with the New Zealand Association of Orthodontists. They practise only orthodontics and have the required training to properly assess and treat all orthodontic problems.

Dr Ronald Sluiter is a highly experienced and has particular expertise in facial biology and systems of moving teeth to improve function and appearance.

The initial appointment is complimentary and a good time to discuss your concerns and goals for your smile with your orthodontist and his staff. Our staff are also available between visits for questions via phone or email.

Have Questions?
How much do braces cost?

The cost of braces depends on the type of braces and how long they are on for. Generally the cost relates to the complexity of the treatment and how long they are on for. Many orthodontic practices offer payment terms, discounts for siblings and sometimes discount for early payment. The practice will advise you at your consultation visit.

Does it hurt getting braces?

Our orthodontists are highly trained and skilled at making the whole process of getting braces easy and painless. Getting braces put on isn’t a painful procedure. However, most patients will feel some discomfort or mild pain when the braces are first put on and they get used to having them. When the braces are adjusted every 6 to 8 weeks they may also be a bit uncomfortable for a day or two until you adjust to them. The removal of your braces is also painless.

What age does my child need braces?

Orthodontists usually recommend your child has their first visit at around age 7 or when their adult teeth start coming through. Your orthodontist will assess your child's teeth and discuss the best treatment process with you. It may be that treatment should be delayed – the orthodontist will guide you as to the likely time frame and will offer regular check-ups.

Some children with a range of issues may require early treatment, have a break and then restart treatment once more adult teeth are through or their jaw has grown more. An early assessment enables treatment to start at the optimum time for your child.

How long will my child need braces?

The usual treatment time with braces for a teenager is around 24 months. However the duration of treatment can vary from 3 months for a simple cosmetic correction through to several years, split into several treatment stages. The duration depends on the growth of the mouth and face and the severity of the problem.

Can you be too old to get braces?

It’s not unusual these days for adults to get braces or orthodontic treatment. It can be as successful in adults as it is for children. Treatment time may vary depending on your age, as adults have denser bone tissue meaning treatment may take a bit longer. If you're thinking about getting orthodontic treatment we suggest booking an appointment with an orthodontist. They will be able to assess your teeth and recommend the best treatment option for you.

What is a specialist orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a specialist who has completed additional study at a university dental school. After completing a five-year dental undergraduate programme, an orthodontist typically practices first as a general dentist, before undertaking further post-graduate specialist studies. After additional full-time study in the field of orthodontics, they graduate with a Masters of Dental Surgery in Orthodontics. Orthodontists keep knowledge current through ongoing Continuing Professional Development. Orthodontic specialists can be members of the NZ Association of Orthodontists.

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the specialist field of dentistry focused on the diagnosis and treatment of issues developing from alignment problems with the teeth and jaws. Specialist orthodontists have extra training, specifically in this field.

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