Braces (Conventional & Invisalign)
Braces (Conventional & Invisalign)
Why orthodontic treatment might be needed
Crooked, crowded and overlapping teeth can cause a range of problems, including:
- tooth decay and gum disease – teeth that are very close together can be harder to clean properly. A build-up of plaque can lead to tooth decay and gum disease
- injury to the gum – if a tooth doesn’t meet with its partner on the opposite jaw properly, it may dig into the gum and cause damage
- it may be difficult to eat or chew properly, or affect your ability to speak properly, swallow or dries out your mouth.
- teeth that stick out may be more likely to be injured or traumatised during sports or in a fall.
- wear and tear – if teeth don’t come together properly the action of chewing can wear them down unevenly
- self-confidence – teeth problems can make people feel embarrassed and they may not feel comfortable to smile.
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Recovery
Expect a tight feeling following the placement and adjustment of the braces. For some patients, this tight feeling may develop into a sore sensation within 4 – 6 hours, which can result from the teeth being adjusted by the arch wire.
To manage symptoms such as pain and soreness, over-the-counter medications may assist in relief. These symptoms typically subside within 3 – 5 days.
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Adjustments
The arch wires are held in place by elastic ties. However, over time, these ties stretch and weaken, which is why adjustments are necessary. These adjustments ensure that proper pressure is maintained, which is required for aligning the teeth.
The orthodontist will also assess the progress of your teeth’s movement and suggest recommendations if necessary. Expect adjustment appointments to be scheduled every 3 – 10 weeks. During adjustment appointments, the elastic ties holding the braces in their proper places are removed. The removal of arch wires is also performed at this stage, which allows you to floss and brush your teeth thoroughly again.
Your K Family Dental orthodontist may also recommend new bands and wires, which are placed for the treatment to progress so your teeth continue to move. Following the adjustments, you may again feel symptoms like tightness and soreness, which you can manage with over-the-counter pain relief medications, or consult your orthodontist or pharmacist for advice on managing discomfort.
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Age for orthodontic treatment
Problems that may benefit from orthodontic treatment can be detected at an early age by an oral health professional. Most orthodontic treatment is done after all the permanent teeth have come through, Some treatments can be started earlier, which can help avoid major treatment later on. . Adults of any age can have treatment as well if they have orthodontic problems.
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Invisalign & Clear Aligners
Not only are the aligners invisible, they are removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment. Plus, brushing and flossing are no problem. They are also comfortable, with no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment. No metal and wires usually means you spend less time in our practice getting adjustments. Invisalign also allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan when you start so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.
- Crooked teeth
- Widely spaced or crowded teeth
- Overjet or overbite
Additionally, invisible braces are generally more suited for adults, though they may be appropriate for certain teenagers depending on their case. These braces are more aesthetic compared to conventional braces and are barely visible. There are 3 types of invisible braces:
- Clear aligners (Invisalign): Clear aligners are removable, custom-fit trays that offer a comfortable, irritation-free treatment. They cause less discomfort during adjustment for many patients and do not cloud over time with proper care.
- Clear or ceramic braces: These braces are made from composite materials, which are more brittle than metal brackets. Ligatures hold them in place with the arch wire. Treatment times using these braces may vary, depending on the case, as metal braces are generally stronger.
- Inside braces (lingual braces): Inside braces involve creating custom brackets using digital imaging. These braces are attached to the inner surfaces of the teeth and are not visible from the outside.
Treatment period with Invisalign & Clear Aligners
Patients may typically wear invisible braces for around 18 – 24 months, depending on the complexity of the dental issue. In some cases, a longer period may be required for effective results.
Invisible braces generally require more time to address dental issues compared to conventional braces, depending on the patient’s condition and treatment plan. However, they offer an aesthetic advantage by remaining less noticeable, which makes them a popular choice for those who prefer a more discreet treatment.
If you’re considering braces treatment, feel free to contact K Family Dental for a personalised consultation.
Real Customers, Real Patient Story
Proudly rated 4.9 on Google, our patients’ satisfaction speaks volumes. Discover their experiences and see why K Family Dental is their trusted choice in Chatswood.
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🌟 Excellent Dental Clinic Services in Chatswood - A Smile Worth Sharing! 🌟 I recently had the pleasure of visiting K Family Dental Clinic for my dental needs, and... Read More I couldn't be happier with the exceptional care and service I received. Let me share my positive experience with you! Expert and Friendly Staff: From the moment I stepped into the clinic, I was greeted by a warm and welcoming team. The staff members were not only highly skilled and knowledgeable but also genuinely caring and friendly. They made me feel comfortable and at ease throughout the entire visit. 🌟 State-of-the-Art Facilities: The clinic boasts modern and well-equipped facilities, creating an atmosphere of professionalism and trust. The cleanliness and organization of the practice gave me confidence that I was in good hands. ⭐ Comprehensive Examinations: The dentist performed a thorough examination, taking the time to listen to my concerns and answer all of my questions. They explained each step of the process in a clear and understandable manner, ensuring I was well-informed about the condition of my oral health. 💫 Personalized Treatment Plan: Following the examination, the dentist developed a personalized treatment plan tailored to my specific needs. They discussed various options with me, considering my preferences and budget. I appreciated their transparency and commitment to finding the best solution for me. 🌈 Pain-Free Procedures: During the treatment, the dentist and their team went above and beyond to ensure my comfort. They used gentle techniques and took measures to minimize any discomfort. I was pleasantly surprised by how painless the entire procedure was. 👏 Exceptional Results: I am thrilled with the outcome of my dental treatment. The dentist's expertise and attention to detail resulted in a beautiful and healthy smile. I feel more confident than ever before, and I can't stop sharing my positive experience with friends and family. 👍 Customer-Centric Approach: What truly sets this dental practice apart is their commitment to exceptional customer service. They prioritize patient satisfaction and go the extra mile to ensure a positive experience from start to finish. I felt valued as an individual, not just a patient. 🌟 I highly recommend K Family Dental for anyone seeking top-notch dental services. Their skilled team, modern facilities, personalized approach, and commitment to excellence make them the go-to choice for all your dental needs. Trust me, your smile will thank you! 😁✨
NAO AOYAMA
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My experience at K Family Dental was fantastic. I hadn't been to the dentist for some time and wasn't sure what to expect. Dr Chen was very friendly and took... Read More the time to explain to me why certain things were important (there was a lot I learnt during the visit). I also thought he was very thorough and was genuinely interested in my well-being. I'd definitely recommend his practice to others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have Questions?
We’re Here to Help.
If you need more information or assistance, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team is ready to support you.
Contact us for urgent advice. After hours, follow our emergency care tips until you can reach the clinic.
Even if you take good care of your teeth, accidents can happen that need urgent attention. Even a minor injury could put you at risk of infection if you don’t get care as soon as possible. If any of your teeth are injured or knocked out, or you have a toothache, swelling, bleeding, or any other unusual symptoms, contact our clinic right away.
To manage dental pain until your appointment, rinse your mouth with warm salt water, take over-the-counter pain relievers, and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Avoid eating hard or chewy foods that may aggravate the pain.
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Smiles Every Day
At K Family Dental, we take pride in our team of highly skilled dentists and dedicated staff. We bring together the best in modern dentistry, with a focus on providing top-tier care in a welcoming environment. Our team is fluent in English, Mandarin, and Japanese, offering comprehensive care that’s culturally attuned and personal.