Frequently asked questions

Orthodontics is a specialised branch of dentistry that focuses on correcting irregularities in the teeth, jaws and bite.

A Specialist Orthodontist is a dentist who has undergone an additional 2-3 years of specialist training in orthodontics. During this time, they learn how to treat misalignments with orthodontic appliances, such as braces and aligners.

We won’t know for sure until you visit our practice for a consultation. During your consultation, we will assess your smile to see if you could benefit from orthodontic treatment. Some things that may indicate you need orthodontic treatment are crowded teeth, spacing or bite issues.

We recommend that children come in for an orthodontic assessment by the age of 7 years old. This will help us monitor and guide the growth and development of their smile. We will usually start treatment with braces after your child has lost all of their baby teeth.

The length of treatment varies greatly depending on the severity of your malocclusion and the type of appliance used in your treatment. Usually, comprehensive treatment takes between 1-3 years.

Most patients experience mild discomfort for a few days after adjustments or changing aligners, but it is manageable and usually temporary. Over-the-counter pain relief can help.

As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, you’re never too old to start orthodontic treatment!

The cost of treatment changes based on the complexity of each case. You can view an estimate on our costs page, but we will give you a custom quote for your personalised treatment plan after your initial consultation.

Braces require careful brushing and flossing around the brackets and wires. Clear aligners should be cleaned daily with lukewarm water. Our team will show you the best techniques to keep your teeth healthy throughout treatment.

Some foods, such as sticky and hard items, should be avoided when wearing braces to prevent damage. Soft foods are generally safe to consume.

Yes. It is especially important during orthodontic treatment to see your dentist for regular check-ups and dental cleanings. For your convenience, we offer Air Flow dental cleanings at SmileLux.

Yes! Retention is one of the most important phases of any orthodontic treatment. If you do not wear your retainer as instructed by your Specialist Orthodontist, your teeth could shift back to their original pre-treatment positions.