09 4381668What age should my child be assessed?
A common misconception is that crooked teeth can only be treated once children have lost all their baby teeth. In fact, many crooked smiles can be prevented with early intervention.
Many problems are identified around the age of 7 or 8 years. Early treatment for problems such as crossbites can improve the chances of avoiding full orthodontic treatment later on.
There are a number of treatment options available, so give us a call to make an appointment for a consultation if you would like your child assessed.
How the process works…
If this is your first visit to our clinic you will be booked in for an initial consult with Dr Rachel Moore where you will discuss your concerns and ideal outcomes. The face, jaws and teeth will be examined to ascertain what treatment may be effective (if required), and when is the best time to start.
Depending on the age of the patient, we may need to wait for further growth and development to happen before treatment starts and you will be placed on a recall system for a further assessment in the future.
This first consultation will cost $110 for a child (15-20 minutes) and $160 for an adult (30 minutes).
The next step
If you are progressing into full treatment, your next appointment may be for a set of records to be taken.
We use the latest digital technology to create a 3D model of your mouth, along with x-rays and photos which are used during the planning phase. Rachel will then create a treatment plan, or options of treatment for you to consider.
This appointment is with our nurse and will take approximately 45 minutes.
Consultation
At this consultation Rachel will show you the x-rays and 3D models and discuss with you the treatment plan and/or options she has developed, so you have an understanding of why the treatment is necessary and what the desired outcome will be.
You will be shown the different appliances available and given options to consider prior to commencing treatment. The cost of the treatment will also be discussed and you will have opportunity to ask any questions you may have. It is important that everyone who has a vested interest in the treatment is present at this appointment, so the information can be heard first hand.
Treatment
You are now ready to book in to have your braces fitted. This appointment takes approximately 1 hour and you will be given information on how to care for them, how to clean your teeth and what you can eat. Your teeth will be a little tender for a couple of days, but will soon settle down. This just means things are starting to move into their new place.
Retention
This is one of the most important phases of your treatment, but one that can get overlooked by many patients. It is important once your braces have been removed that you follow the instruction of your orthodontist in the wearing of your retainers. You will be kept under observation for up to 18 months during this phase to ensure your teeth are stable and holding in their new position. Once we no longer need to schedule any further appointments, you will be advised to continue wearing your retainers at night time for as long as you possibly can.
Payment Plans
Investing in creating a smile you can be proud of is a commitment we like to make as easy as possible for you.
Your consult and records appointments are charged separately to make it easier to budget for each step. Your treatment will then be quoted as a fixed fee and is not based on the time your treatment may take. After an initial deposit, we offer payment plans of monthly instalments to pay off the balance, generally over 18-24 months.
