Orthodontics is a dental speciality focusing on correcting teeth and jaw irregularities and improving their function. This often includes:
– Straightening crooked or crowded teeth
– Correcting misaligned bites (such as overbites or underbites)
– Improving overall oral function and appearance

Orthodontic treatment commonly involves the use of appliances like braces or clear aligners to gently move teeth into their ideal positions over time.

More details on what orthodontists do can be found here.

Orthodontists and dentists share many similarities – they work together to help improve your overall oral health – but they actually work in very different ways.

Here’s the key difference between a dentist and an orthodontist:
– Dentists provide general oral care, including check-ups, fillings, cleaning, and treating gum disease.
– Orthodontists are specialists who focus on straightening teeth, correcting misaligned bites, and guiding jaw development.

All orthodontists are qualified dentists—but after completing a general dentistry degree, orthodontists undergo an additional three years of full time specialist university training to diagnose, prevent, and treat facial and dental irregularities. Patients should continue to see their dentist for regular check-ups. However, when it comes to the provision of orthodontic treatment such as braces and aligners, it is recommended that patients see an Australian registered specialist orthodontist. No referral is needed to see an orthodontist.

Visit our guide on when to see an orthodontist vs dentist for more information.

There are several types of orthodontic treatment available in Australia depending on your needs, lifestyle, and goals.

Here are some common types of orthodontic treatment:

Traditional metal braces – These are the most common type of treatment and are capable of performing large tooth movements, making them suitable for most cases.

Ceramic or clear braces – These work in the same way as metal braces, only they use clear or tooth-coloured ceramic brackets and wires, making them a subtler option for adults

Lingual braces – These are completely customised to the patient – making them one of the most expensive options – and are placed along the inside of a patient’s teeth, rendering them virtually invisible. Due to their close proximity to the tongue they may cause some difficulty with speech during the adjustment period.

Clear aligners – Using a series of removable plastic trays to gently move the teeth into a new position. This type of treatment requires diligence on the part of the wearer as they must be worn for at least 22 hours a day to be effective.

Whether you’re considering orthodontic treatment for children or exploring orthodontic treatment for adults, it’s important to consult a specialist orthodontist for the right advice.

Learn more in our guide to orthodontic treatment.

If you’re asking yourself “Do I need braces?” or “How do I know if I need braces?”, the best first step is to book a consultation with a specialist orthodontist. They’ll assess your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment to determine the most effective treatment option for your unique needs.

Here are some common signs you may need braces:

– Crooked or crowded teeth
– Gaps between teeth
– Jaw pain or clicking
– Difficulty chewing
– An overbite, underbite, or crossbite

Wondering “Do I need braces for an overbite?” The answer is often yes—braces or clear aligners can help correct bite issues and improve overall function and appearance.

There are several treatment options available, including:
– Traditional metal braces
– Ceramic braces (clear or tooth-coloured for a discreet look)
– Lingual braces (placed behind the teeth)
– Clear aligners such as Invisalign®, Spark®, or 3M Clarity™

Not sure whether you need braces or clear aligners such as Invisalign? Your orthodontist will help guide your decision based on your smile goals, lifestyle, and the complexity of your case. Find an orthodontist near you today.

While you are never too old to have orthodontic treatment, some bite problems are much better treated when actively growing.

Many parents wonder when to take their child to see an orthodontist. While orthodontic treatment can be done at any age, some issues are easier to correct while a child is still growing.

Here’s what you need to know about orthodontic care for kids:

– The best age for a first visit to a kids orthodontist is around 7 years old – even if braces aren’t needed yet, early assessment can help detect potential problems.
– An orthodontist can check for issues caused by thumb sucking, crowding, overbites, underbites, and other early signs of misalignment.
– Establishing an orthodontic home early helps your child become familiar with their orthodontist [for kids] and feel comfortable with ongoing care.
– Not all children will need braces at this age, but early evaluation can make a big difference in long-term outcomes.

Learn more about when to see an orthodontist here.

If you’re searching for ways to straighten teeth at home or wondering how to fix your teeth without a dentist, it’s important to proceed with caution.

While there are many online products and at-home teeth straightening kits, orthodontic treatment should always be supervised by a trained specialist. Attempting to straighten teeth without braces at home naturally, or using DIY methods, can be risky and may cause long-term damage to your teeth, gums, or jaw.

Here’s why professional supervision matters:
– Unsupervised treatment can lead to permanent damage
– Only a specialist can assess your unique bite and tooth movement safely
– You may not achieve the results you expect without expert guidance

Do at-home straightening kits work? Some may show short-term results, but without professional monitoring, they can compromise your oral health.

What’s the cheapest way to straighten your teeth at home? The safest and most cost-effective way long term is to see a qualified orthodontist who can create a tailored plan for you—especially if you’re looking for discreet or budget-friendly options.

For more expert advice and safe teeth straightening options, find an orthodontist near you.

No, you do not need a referral to see an orthodontist. Anyone can make an appointment with an orthodontist at any time. Here’s how to find the right orthodontist near you..

You can use the Find An Orthodontist tool to search for a specialist orthodontist in your area. All members of the Australian Society of Orthodontists are registered orthodontic specialists, so you can trust in their ability to treat you effectively.

How long does clear aligners such as Invisalign take?
The length of Invisalign treatment depends on how much movement your teeth require. While some people see results in as little as 6 months, most Invisalign treatments in Australia typically take between 12 to 24 months. Your specialist orthodontist will create a personalised treatment plan to give you the best results.

How long do braces take?
The duration of treatment with braces depends on the complexity of your case. On average, braces take between 1 and 2 years to complete treatment. Some cases may be shorter or longer depending on your individual needs and how well you follow your orthodontist’s instructions.

Orthodontic treatment (including braces and clear aligners) should ideally be provided by a registered specialist orthodontist. Orthodontists have the skills and expertise to correctly diagnose orthodontic problems, assess and monitor your tooth movements, and safeguard the health of your teeth.

There are a number of factors that will affect how much you pay for orthodontic treatment, including your personal needs and the type of treatment you choose. This is something you will discuss with your chosen orthodontist in your first consultation. Find out more about the cost of orthodontics here.