Listed below are the top twelve most frequently asked questions we receive from our patients.

If you have a specific question that you would like answered please contact us today on (08) 8373 1363 or click here to contact us online.

1. How long will Orthodontic treatment take?
The length of treatment depends upon the severity of the problem. Orthodontic treatment may last between 6 to 30 months.


2. How much does Orthodontic treatment cost?
The cost of treatment will vary according to whether one or both arches of teeth need treatment; how severe the problem is; the type of braces chosen; and whether there are alternatives to braces. A detailed quotation is given at the discussion visit. The cost of treatment is broken down over the course of treatment to make payment easier.


3. How often do I need to have my braces adjusted?
Adjustment visits, once braces are in place, are short appointments that occur 3 to 8 weeks apart.


4. Will I need to have any teeth removed?
In some cases teeth may need to be removed, in order to make enough room to fit crowded teeth into position. Fortunately, modern Orthodontics involves a much lower requirement to remove teeth, and, if treated at the correct age, teeth may only need to be removed in 10 to 15 percent of cases.

5. Do braces hurt?
The majority of patients experience slight discomfort when their braces are first fitted and then a day or two after each adjustment.

6. Will I still be able to talk when I have braces?
Yes, standard braces should not affect how you talk or the sound of your voice.

In certain cases, we may need to use an appliance that could get in the way of your tongue. You may then experience slight trouble talking clearly for a day or two. However, your tongue will then readjust and you will be able to talk like normal.

7. Will braces cause ulcers in my mouth?
When you first get braces, you could experience some ulcers in your mouth. If you rinse in warm salty water, they will heal within a week or two. We provide orthodontic wax when you get braces, as this helps to protect the inside of your cheeks from rubbing against the brackets - which in turn helps prevent ulcers forming. Your gums and cheeks will become accustomed to the braces and after a while you shouldn't need to use wax anymore.

8. Does it hurt to eat with braces?
After your braces have been put on, for the first few days your teeth will feel a little tender and you may wish to eat softer foods. After this you should be able to eat normally again.

9. Is there anything I can't eat while undergoing Orthodontic treatment?
You can eat most of the good things that you eat now. However, hard, sticky, or crunchy foods should be avoided because they may stick to the brackets and pull them off your teeth. In addition, the sugar can get around the braces and cause cavities. When you begin treatment, we will discuss with you the best foods to eat and the ones to avoid. Plain soft chocolates are fine as long as you brush afterwards.