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What are braces?

Braces are what most people think of when they think of orthodontic treatment. Braces are small metal or ceramic brackets which are fitted to the front of your teeth (with adhesive) with a wire running between them. 

The wires are kept in place by small elastic bands, which are often referred to as the 'colours' in orthodontic treatment. A series of different wires are then used to gradually move your teeth into their right place over time. Metal or stainless steel braces are the most cost-effective solution for your orthodontic treatment and are suitable for almost every situation.

Randal is proud to use 3M Unitek's Victory series braces. These braces are designed to help him delivery the best possible treatment finish for your smile. They are also a fun way to add your own unique signature style to your braces as they elastics that hold the wires into place come in a range of colour for you to choose from. You can choose as many or as few as you like in any combination!

How do braces work?

1. Initially, Randal will take photos, X-ray's, and moulds of your teeth to help create your treatment plan.
2. These records, along with the treatment prescribed by Randal will be used to create a customised treatment plan just for you.
3. An appointment will then be made for you to have your braces fitted. This usually takes about an hour and a half.
4. You'll be coming back to visit Randal approximately every 6 weeks for about 10 - 15 minutes to monitor the progress of your treatment and to make any necessary adjustments.
5. After you've finished your treatment, you'll need to use retainers to help make sure the new position of your teeth is maintained.

What’s life with braces like?

Having been in use for over 100 years, stainless steel braces are the traditional braces that most people think of when they think about having orthodontic treatment. We think braces can get a pretty bad wrap and that there’s some misconceptions about having braces!

Here’s some myth busters for you!

Does it hurt to have braces?

No, braces don’t hurt. When they are first placed, and when they are tightened during your treatment, this can cause your teeth to become tender and slightly uncomfortable. But this bruised feeling will only last for a day or two and you may feel like a softer diet and some pain relief.

Can anyone wear braces?

 Yes, orthodontic treatment is for everyone – children, teenagers and adults. At Randal McAlister Orthodontics, we have teeth straightening treatment options that are suitable, whatever your age. We really do believe no-one is too old for orthodontic treatment.

Will braces affect my ability to play sport?

No! You should be able to play just about any sport or activity. We do however strongly recommend that you wear a mouth guard in contact sports, or for any other sports where there is a chance that you can get hit in the face.

Why would I choose braces?

Braces have been used for more than 100 years and are probably the most common form of orthodontic treatment. Braces may give you visible results from as early as the first few months of treatment.

Metal or stainless steel braces are a great choice as they are the most cost-effective solution for your orthodontic treatment and are suitable for almost every situation.

They are also a fun way to add your own unique signature style to your treatment as the elastics that hold the wires into place come in a range of colours for you to choose from. You can choose as many or as few as you like in any combination!

If you’re deciding on whether to straighten your teeth but you’re worried about the discomfort then worry not! No, braces don’t hurt. When they are first placed, and during your treatment when they are tightened, this can cause your teeth to become tender and slightly uncomfortable, but this bruised feeling will only last for a day or two and you may feel like a softer diet and some pain relief.

Can anyone wear braces?

Yes! Don’t forget braces treatment is ideal for both adults and children. Orthodontic treatment is for everyone – children, teenagers and adults and we have teeth straightening treatment options that are suitable, whatever your age.

We really do believe no-one is too old for orthodontic treatment so it’s best to chat to Randal about whether braces is the right option for you.

How long does treatment with braces usually take?

Depending on the severity of the problem, growth during treatment and how well you follow instructions, treatment times can vary greatly. The average treatment time for an adolescent is around 24 months and adult treatments generally take a little longer and average between 24 and 30 months.  

How often would I need to see Randal?

For your first appointment when you have your braces put on or your Invisalign® clear aligners fitted, it usually takes between one to two hours.

After that, we like to see you at regular intervals for adjustments, every six weeks. These appointment usually take just 10 to 15 minutes.

How much do braces cost?

Braces can cost anywhere between $7,000 to $8,000 depending on your treatment needs like the complexity of your treatment and how long you’ll need treatment for.

Best thing to do is make an appointment to see Randal to see where in that range your orthodontic treatment may sit.

During your first visit to see Randal an initial consultation fee will apply to cover the cost of your first visit only. Your initial consultation fee is usually $130.00 and you’ll be advised of the cost when arranging your appointment with Randal.  If you need any x-ray's taken at the time of your consultation, this will cost an additional $110.00.

You will be provided with a written treatment plan and quote for treatment prior to the commencing treatment. We also have payment plans which we hope helps to make orthodontic treatment as affordable to everyone as possible. Our payment plans or instalments are interest free and we have a series of flexible payments which can be tailored to your individual requirements and situation.

How do I look after my braces?

It's very important that you keep your teeth very clean. The glue we use to put the braces on with is very weak (so we can take them off easily at the end of your treatment) so you will have to cut up any hard foods you choose to eat.

We ask that you avoid energy or sports drinks and only soft drinks as a treat! These types of drinks are very acidic and sugary and will make holes in your teeth in no time (whether you have braces on or not).

We’ll provide you with lots of information at the time your treatment starts. Seeing us regularly does NOT mean you don’t need to see your dentist regularly during treatment and extra dental hygiene visits to care for your teeth during treatment may also be recommended.

Can I clean my teeth while wearing braces?

Yes, and it is very important that you do so. If your teeth are not kept in the best possible condition this can affect your treatment. Checkout our braces care section on how to keep your teeth and braces clean during treatment. It’s super easy!

Is it true I can only eat soft foods while wearing braces?

There are some foods you’ll need to avoid when wearing braces but on the whole, your diet isn’t likely to change very much while you’re wearing braces. The main thing to remember is that if you damage your braces, this can affect the length of your treatment time. When we fit you with braces, we’ll let you know what is best to eat and what you should avoid, like hard boiled sweets, chewing gum and sugary drinks!

Keen but have more questions? 

Take a look at the nitty gritty questions you may have about braces by checking out our FAQs here.  If you’ve got a question that’s not answered there, just get in touch!

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