Dental Braces
Significant crowding, a pronounced overbite, or teeth that have rotated out of position are the kinds of concerns that often respond more predictably to traditional braces than to a removable aligner. Launceston Dentistry provides dental braces for teenagers and adults, with treatment planned around the specific movement your teeth actually need.
Braces consist of small brackets bonded to the front surface of each tooth, connected by a wire that's adjusted at regular visits to gradually guide teeth into a better position. Because the appliance stays in place throughout treatment, braces are generally considered more predictable for correcting significant misalignment than options that rely on the patient wearing something consistently.
Before recommending braces, your dentist assesses your bite and jaw alignment in detail, then talks through a realistic treatment timeline specific to your case.
Significant crowding, rotated teeth, or a pronounced bite mismatch are often better addressed with traditional braces than with a more discreet, removable option.
Braces remain a well-established treatment, and they offer particular advantages for certain cases.
Reliable for Complex Corrections
No Daily Compliance Required
Some Choice in Appearance
A Noticeable Change Once Complete
Results vary between individuals, and treatment suitability depends on your specific circumstances, which your dentist can discuss with you at consultation.
An assessment of your bite and alignment is the clearest way to understand whether braces, or another orthodontic option, may be appropriate.
Getting braces right depends on the assessment that happens before treatment begins, not just the fitting itself.
Braces are recommended here based on what your specific bite requires, not as a default treatment path. Your dentist will explain the available alternatives and answer any questions before treatment begins.
A few of the questions patients often ask before starting treatment with braces.
This depends on the complexity of your case, but treatment generally runs between one and two years. More significant corrections, such as substantial crowding or a pronounced bite mismatch, tend to take longer, while minor adjustments may resolve sooner. Your dentist can provide a more specific estimate after assessing your bite and reviewing any X-rays taken during your initial consultation.
Some pressure or tenderness is common for a few days following fitting or adjustment, as teeth begin to move into their new position. This generally settles within a week, and over-the-counter pain relief can help in the meantime if needed. Many patients find the first few days after fitting the most noticeable, with later adjustment visits feeling comparatively minor.
No, age alone isn't a barrier to treatment. Your dentist will assess whether your gums and jawbone are healthy enough to support tooth movement, which matters more than your age. A growing number of adults choose braces specifically because more involved corrections tend to respond more predictably to a fixed appliance.
Hard, sticky, or very chewy foods are generally best avoided, since they can damage brackets or wires and potentially extend your treatment time. Your dentist will provide a full list of foods to avoid once your braces are fitted, along with practical tips for eating comfortably in the days following an adjustment.
Generally, yes, since teeth may shift back toward their original position over time once braces are removed. Your dentist will fit a suitable retainer, which may be removable or fixed depending on your case, and explain the wear schedule needed to maintain your results long-term.
Contact your dentist as soon as possible, since a loose bracket or protruding wire can cause discomfort and may affect your treatment progress if left unaddressed. Dental wax can help cover a sharp edge and ease any irritation until your appointment.
The information above is general in nature and isn't a substitute for personalised advice. Treatment suitability depends on individual circumstances, so please speak with your dentist about what may be appropriate for you.
If you're considering braces to address crowding, gaps, or a bite concern, our team is here to help. Get in touch and we'll assess your bite properly, talk through realistic timeframes and costs, and answer any questions you have before you decide on anything. There's no pressure to commit on the day, and we're happy to give you time to think it over.