FAQs

We are a family run orthodontic practice based in three Adelaide locations - Modbury, St Peters and West Lakes.TOC is led by Dr Daniel De Angelis, an accredited South Australian Specialist Orthodontist with 20 years experience in dentistry and orthodontics. He has treated nearly 10,000 patients of all ages throughout his career.Dr De Angelis is supported by a professional and caring team of qualified Clinicians, Clinical Assistants, Treatment Coordinators and Reception staff.Learn more about us here in our blog post

A Specialist Orthodontist is an expert in straightening teeth, correcting bites and aligning jaws.Dr Daniel De Angelis first studied to become a Dentist at the University of Adelaide (Bachelor of Dental Surgery as well as completing a Bachelor of Science). He then studied for an additional 3 years to specialise in orthodontics. This specialised training is why he is known as a Specialist Orthodontist.A Specialist Orthodontist focuses on correcting the bite and alignment of the teeth and jaws. This is done using appliances such as braces or clear aligners such as Invisalign.Orthodontics is about more than just having a straight smile though. It can improve tooth health, breathing, chewing, speaking difficulties and contribute to your overall health and wellbeing.

Dr De Angelis is an accredited South Australian Specialist Orthodontist based in Adelaide. After completing a general dental degree at the University of Adelaide, he undertook a further three more years of study at the University of Adelaide to become a Specialist Orthodontist, achieving a Doctor of Clinical Dentistry (Orthodontics).Dr De Angelis is a Fellow of the International College of Dentists. Fellowship in the College is extended by invitation only to a nominated dentist who must pass a rigorous, peer review process.Dr De Angelis is also a member of the Australian Dental Association, the Australian Society of Orthodontists and has treated close to 10,000 patients throughout his 20 year career.Dr De Angelis was one of the first providers of Invisalign in Australia. He began using Invisalign treatment with his patients in 2002 and is a Platinum Invisalign provider. That's 18 years worth of experience using Invisalign clear aligner technology for simple and the most complex of orthodontic cases.If you'd like to learn more about Dr De Angelis click here.

No. You don’t need a referral from a dentist to see an orthodontist or to make an appointment with us.Call us on 133 862 to make an appointment or book online now!

The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends children get assessed from 7 years of age (7 - 10 years).Our view is that seeing us for an assessment at an early age is a good idea. It means we can either rule out the need for early treatment, or if there are any problems present, we can talk you through the best course of action to put you and your child’s minds at ease.Early orthodontic intervention can also save money down the track, reducing the need for more expensive treatment in later life. An initial consultation with Dr De Angelis can cost as little as $75 and up to $175 if your child requires X-rays or scans.This fee is taken off the cost of your retention at the end of treatment.If you have private health insurance, you might be able to claim some of the cost of your initial consult, depending on your level of cover.

Whilst you don’t need a referral from your dentist, Dr De Angelis likes his patients to see their dentists regularly for a check-up and clean. We encourage our patients to maintain their general dental care. Our existing patients are rewarded with a movie voucher if they see their dentists every six months for a check up and clean.

Not at all! We treat patients of all ages, from young children to adults in their 50s and 60s. Whilst there may be some limitations to orthodontic treatment the older a person is, we believe you're never too old to make positive changes to your health and wellbeing. Having a malocclusion (a problem with your bite) can have quite a few negative impacts on your oral health and wellbeing including excessive tooth wear, jaw joint pain, gum recession and even headaches. So correcting a malocclusion can have many positive benefits for people of all ages.

We have three Adelaide clinics located in Modbury, St Peters and West Lakes.Modbury 31-33 Smart Road Modbury SA 5092St Peters 50 Stephen Terrace St Peters SA 5069West Lakes 151 Brebner Drive West Lakes SA 5021

We are a fully accredited practice.What does this actually mean?Accreditation is independent recognition that an organisation meets the requirements of governing industry standards.Health and community organisations are recognised for their commitment to best practice, quality, systems and processes and continuous improvement.Being QIP accredited means patients can be confident that we are committed to providing safe and quality service provision.

We recommend children get an orthodontic assessment at the age of 7 (which is in line with the advice from the Australian Society of Orthodontists). An orthodontic assessment at this age means we can evaluate your child’s existing and incoming teeth and determine if early treatment is necessary.Earlier treatment can be financially beneficial, as correcting a potential problem before it eventuates can be less complex than delayed treatment.When it comes to adults, the best time to start orthodontic treatment is really up to the individual and their own set of circumstances. We treat patients of all ages from young children to adults in their 50s and 60s!

Orthodontic appliances such as braces and clear aligners such as Invisalign and Spark are designed to gently move the teeth into their desired position. They are also designed to help correct a bite, in conjunction with elastic wear. While that sounds simple, it's quite complex! Dr Daniel De Angelis trained for an additional three years (after his Dental degree) to become an expert in straightening teeth and correcting bites. For every one of our patients, Dr De Angelis is responsible for putting together their personalised treatment plan - this isn't left to another staff member. This means, behind the scenes, he is working on how each patient's teeth need to move in order to result in a straight and healthy smile. This gives our patients confidence that their treatment is being delivered and managed by our experienced Specialist Orthodontist along with our team of qualifiied Clinicians.

It's super easy!You can book online anytime here, at a time that suits you, or give us a call on 133 862 (Mon – Fri, 8am – 5pm) to arrange an appointment.You can also book an appointment via our Facebook page, simply click on the 'Book Now' button at the top of our page.We are located in Modbury, St Peters and West Lakes.

You will be looked after by our Specialist Orthodontist Dr De Angelis and our Treatment Coordinator at the first appointment.If you choose to start treatment with us your treatment will be delivered by Dr De Angelis and his team of qualified clinicians, clinical assistants and admin/reception staff.Find out what happens at the first appointment here and meet the team here.

Yes! We offer same day starts. We can start your orthodontic transformation at your initial consult, reducing two appointments in to one. Please let our staff know at the time of booking if you are interested in starting your treatment straight away.

Yes! Depending on the treatment you require, you can accelerate your treatment if you’d like to straighten your teeth more quickly. We can provide more detail when you come in for your initial consultation.

We sure do! We have a whole bunch of before and after photos of our patients. They range from children to adults who have been treated with braces, Invisalign clear aligners and Spark clear aligners.Check them out here - Before and Afters

Finishing orthodontic treatment is a huge milestone! However, your orthodontic treatment isn’t complete just yet.As the teeth are part of the body system, which is a biological system, there can be a natural tendency for teeth to move once braces are removed. This is termed “orthodontic relapse”. You might be aware of people who have had braces and later complain that, after removal of the braces, their teeth have “moved back”. This situation is avoidable if a proper retention phase is planned and maintained.Retention is critical to ensure that your teeth will look as good in years to come, as they do on the day your braces (or clear aligners) are removed. This makes the retention phase of orthodontic treatment that immediately follows removal of braces or clear aligner treatment really important.A retention program is individually tailored for each patient and involves a fixed bonded lingual wire and removable retainers. These retention appliances are designed simply to hold the teeth in place once braces are removed and are generally not visible, and very simple to wear and maintain. We talk to all new patients about retention at their first initial consultation.

Retention is critical to ensure that your teeth look as good in years to come, as they do on the day your braces (or clear aligners) are removed. This makes the retention phase of orthodontic treatment that immediately follows removal of braces or clear aligner treatment really important.A retention program is individually tailored for each patient and involves a fixed bonded lingual wire and removable retainers. These retention appliances are designed simply to hold the teeth in place once braces are removed and are generally not visible, and very simple to wear and maintain. We talk to all new patients about retention at their first initial consultation.

It’s very important to maintain good oral hygiene, especially when you are undertaking orthodontic treatment. We recommend brushing and flossing for 5 minutes at least twice a day. Braces make it easier for pieces of food and plaque to get trapped in the brackets of your braces. When brushing your teeth with braces, use a toothbrush with a soft head to reach those tricky areas. Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle, and gently brush your entire gum line. Then turn your toothbrush at a downward angle on the top of your brackets, and then at an upward angle to clean the bottom of your brackets. Flossing is also essential. We know it can be a challenge with braces, but it’s not impossible. If flossing tape is too tricky, use floss threaders or interdental brushes. For Invialign or Spark patients, brush and floss your teeth as you normally would. The only difference is you will need to take your aligners out to brush and floss them. For both braces and clear aligner treatment we suggest whenever possible, brush your teeth after every meal. Keep a toothbrush and tube of toothpaste in your handbag or pocket. If brushing isn’t an option, then rinsing your mouth with water or mouthwash will help remove plaque and food build up until you can brush your teeth.

Everybody experiences braces differently. There may be some discomfort as your mouth adjusts to the new pressure on your teeth. You may also feel your new braces rubbing against your inner cheek. This should all disappear in a few days.If the tenderness continues, try dissolving one teaspoon of salt in lukewarm water. Swish and gargle this solution in your mouth for a few minutes – and remember not to swallow! If this doesn’t help, use painkillers and orthodontic wax to relieve any discomfort until you get used to your new braces. We are always happy to help patients who are experiencing any aches or pains.

How long you require braces treatment really depends on your teeth and your bite. When our patients come in for their first consultation we take X-rays and scans to determine your personalised treatment plan. Your treatment plan will provide advice on how long treatment will take to get the best possible outcome.

Absolutely! We understand the importance of an active lifestyle and your treatment shouldn’t stop you from participating in the sports you love. If you are concerned a particular activity may cause damage to your mouth whilst in treatment, we recommend a mouthguard that can be easily fitted over your braces or aligners. Our team can help with this! We offer a “boil and bite” mouthguard service whilst in treatment that can conform to your ever-changing teeth profile.

It’s very important to maintain good oral hygiene, especially when you are undertaking orthodontic treatment. Braces make it easier for pieces of food and plaque to get trapped in the brackets of your braces. We recommend brushing and flossing for 5 minutes at least twice a day. When brushing your teeth with braces, use a toothbrush with a soft head to reach those tricky areas. Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle, and gently brush your entire gum line. Then turn your toothbrush at a downward angle on the top of your brackets, and then at an upward angle to clean the bottom of your brackets. Flossing is also essential. We know it can be a challenge with braces, but it’s not impossible. If flossing tape is too tricky, use floss threaders or interdental brushes.

How long you require braces treatment really depends on your teeth and your bite. When our patients come in for their first consultation we take X-rays and scans to determine your personalised treatment plan. Your treatment plan will provide advice on how long treatment will take to get the best possible outcome.

We like to see you in the clinic approximately every 6 weeks for a check up to make sure your treatment is progressing well and according to your treatment plan.

We recommend seeing your general dentist every 6 months for a check up. Bring one of our dental check up cards with you at your next dentist visit, ask your dentist to sign the card, bring it with you to your next TOC appointment and we'll reward you with a movie voucher!

Yes, of course! We tailor personalised treatment to meet the needs and individual set of circumstances.

Not necessarily. It really depends on the individual. There are some cases where baby teeth or permanent teeth need to be removed. We pride ourselves on being a non-extraction practice wherever possible. In some more complex cases however it is necessary to consider removal of teeth to ensure the very best outcome is achieved. This is carefully decided on an individual basis and only indicated if no other alternative is available.

We recommend avoiding hard and cruncy foods like apples, carrots or crunchy bread. We recommend completey avoiding the following: chewy foods like licorice or bagels, crunchy snacks such as popcorn and chips, foods that are sticky – chewing gum or lollies, anything hard like nuts or hard lollies and foods that require biting into, such as corn on the cob need to be avoided.The best foods to eat with braces are those that are low in sugar and don't require too much chewing. This includes…

• Bread, mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, pancakes
• Soft and hearty foods like soup and stews
• Cheese, yoghurt and smoothies
• Fruits and vegetables cooked until soft or cut/grated into bite-sized pieces
• Meat, poultry, fish and protein-rich foods cooked until soft or tender

This really depends on the individual patient and what kind of treatment they require.

The most popular alternative to braces is clear aligners like Invisalign or Spark. We are experts in Invisalign and Spark clear aligner treatment. Dr De Angelis was one of the first providers of Invisalign treatment in Australia and one of only three accredited Spark providers in Australia. Invisalign and Spark are popular as they are almost invisible.

Braces and Invisalign both move teeth into their desired position but it really comes down to personal preference. Invisalign and Spark clear aligners are very popular as they are almost invisible and they can be taken out for meals, for events and when playing sports. On the other hand though, braces don't need to be taken off at all so they are great for people who don't think they would be able to wear aligners for 22 hours per day.

We are specialists in Invisalign® and Spark clear aligners.Clear aligners are a transparent, plastic form of dental braces used to gently adjust and straighten teeth. Unlike braces, clear aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed  for eating, drinking and brushing teeth.Clear aligners look like a clear plastic thin mouthguard. Attachments are placed on the teeth to keep the clear aligners anchored. That way, your teeth can be guided into their correct positions. Clear aligners such as Invisalign® and Spark use attachments to achieve the best results.For more information click HERE.

I’ve been using Invisalign® to straighten my patient’s teeth for 18 years, treating over 700 patients with clear aligners.I was one of the first Invisalign® providers in Australia – and I’m also one of three Spark clear aligner providers in the country.Invisalign® clear aligners are a virtually invisible orthodontic treatment that gently – yet effectively – straightens your teeth.Once I put together the treatment plan for a patient, Invisalign® uses this information to create a series of custom-made, removable aligners using the SmartForce® technology. These aligners are then changed on a weekly or fortnightly basis.I use Invisalign® for complex cases, often for patients who have been told they aren’t a suitable candidate for Invisalign®. It’s always worth getting advice from a specialist in this area, like myself.If you live in Adelaide and would like a Invisalign® consultation from a Specialist Orthodontist (that’s me!), book your no obligation consult here.

Spark clear aligners work exactly like the leading clear aligner brand on the market. They are an almost invisible clear aligner that straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.According to Spark:

• Spark is the clearest aligner, allowing your smile to shine during treatment.
• The Spark aligner material may result in faster treatment goals compared to the leading aligner brand.
• Spark custom trays are trimmed and polished for enhanced comfort.
• Spark is proven to provide a more comfortable, productive treatment.
• Spark aligners are BPA free.

We treat young children from 7 years to adults aged in their 50s and 60s with Invisalign. Age is no barrier and it's perfectly safe.

Invisalign clear aligner treatment starts working from the very moment you place your first set of aligners on your teeth! You may not notice the movement as Invisalign is designed to move your teeth very gently and slowly which is the safest and best way to move your teeth into their ideal position. Each aligner is designed to move teeth in 0.25mm increments. While every individual is different, patients might notice changes to their smile within the first few sets of aligners.

We think so! We believe that a smile is transformative. That’s how we got our name (Transform Orthodontic Care) – we believe a smile can transform your confidence, your self-esteem, and your life. We see many adults who have always wanted straight teeth and have decided to do something about it in their adulthood. When they walk out of our practice after finishing their Invisalign or braces treatment you can visibly see how happy they are to be smiling with confidence again!

Yes, you must wear your Invisalign clear aligners for 22 hours per day, this includes at night time while you are sleeping.

You can drink anything while you have Invisalign treatment, just not while your clear aligners are on your teeth. You can drink water while you have your Invisalign clear aligners on but for all other drinks you must take out your clear aligners and then put them back in once you've had your drink. For example, remove them when you have a hot chocolate, your morning coffee or if you have a glass of wine with dinner. Drinking anything other than water while your clear aligners are in can cause tooth decay.

You can eat anything with Invisalign treatment although we recommend limiting sugary foods and drinks to avoid tooth decay.With Invisalign, when you have a meal, you simply remove your clear aligners. Once you've eaten, brush your teeth (or rinse with water if you are unable to brush your teeth), and put your aligners back in.You need to wear your aligners for 22 hours per day so putting your clear aligners back on your teeth after a meal is important.

Ideally yes, but if you are unable to brush your teeth after your meal try rinsing your mouth with some water before placing your aligners back on your teeth.

When you see a Specialist Orthodontist like Dr Daniel De Angelis you are being treated by someone who has dedicated their working life to becoming an expert in straightening teeth and correcting bites.After completing his dental degree, Dr De Angelis studied for an additional three years to specialise in orthodontics. He corrects malocclusions and straightens teeth every day, day in and day out.Choosing a cheaper online orthodontics solution means you risk not being treated by a qualified practitioner. This can lead to more damage to your teeth. When Dr De Angelis personally puts together your clear aligner (Invisalign or Spark) treatment plan it involves having your clear aligners custom made, specifically in accordance with the personalised treatment plan Dr De Angelis put together for you.We specialise in Invisalign and Spark clear aligners. Invisalign clear aligners are digitally made in the US using the latest technology. Once you start your Invisalign treatment you are seen by Dr De Angelis for your appointments, along with the entire team of Clinicians and Clinical Assistants who assist Dr De Angelis in delivering your treatment. We know there is a cost involved in undertaking clear aligner or braces treatment however, there is a lot that happens behind the scenes utilising specialist expertise and the latest technology plus a team of staff to deliver your personalised treatment over many months, sometimes years.

Clear aligners can treat minor and severe malocclusions in a gentle yet effective way. Many patients claim or have been advised that aligners cannot help them because their malocclusion is too severe, or that their smile can only be fixed with traditional braces. But that isn’t the case. Dr Daniel De Angelis is one of the most experienced Specialist Orthodontists in Adelaide. Dr De Angelis has used clear aligners on many patients who believed they couldn’t have aligners, such as Invisalign®.

We don't believe there are any disadvantages to Invisalign or Spark treatment!

Did you know that your teeth have a memory? It’s true! Your teeth may try to move back into their original position after your orthodontic treatment. This is why wearing a retainer after your braces or clear aligner treatment is so important. Retention is critical to ensure that your teeth will look as good in years to come, as they do on the day your braces (or clear aligners) are removed. This makes the retention phase of orthodontic treatment (that immediately follows competion of braces or clear aligner treatment) really important. A retention program is individually tailored for each patient and involves a fixed bonded lingual wire and removable retainers. These retention appliances are designed simply to hold the teeth in place once braces are removed and are generally not visible, and very simple to wear and maintain. We talk to all new patients about retention at their first initial consultation.

When you wear your first set of Invisalign clear aligners you might find it will take a couple of days to get used to. This is perfectly normal! You may have a little lisp at first and your mouth might get a bit dry as well. This is your mouth getting used to the clear aligners. Don't worry though, it's temporary! You will soon get used to the aligners and you will notice you won't have a lisp when you do!

Invisalign or Spark clear aligner treatment does not change your face or the appearance of your face.Clear aligners don't make your lips bigger but it might appear as if they are bigger when you have your aligners in.

Braces and clear aligners both move gently teeth into their desired position but it really comes down to personal preference. Invisalign and Spark clear aligners are very popular as they are almost invisible and they can be taken out for meals, for events and when playing sports. On the other hand though, braces don't need to be taken off at all so they are great for people who don't think they would be able to wear aligners for 22 hours per day.

How long you require clear aligner treatment really depends on your teeth and your bite. When our patients come in for their first consultation we take X-rays and scans to determine your personalised treatment plan. Your treatment plan will provide advice on how long treatment will take to get the best possible outcome.

Our orthodontic consultations are $175 which include a personalised treatment plan by Dr Daniel De Angelis as well as X-rays, scans and photos.If you decide to go ahead with treatment, the cost of the initial consult is taken off the cost of the retention phase of your treatment. If you have private health insurance, you may also be able to claim some of the cost of your initial consult, depending on your level of cover.Making a booking is easy! You can book online anytime, at a time that suits you, or give us a call on 133 862 (Mon – Fri, 8am – 5pm) to arrange an appointment.

Every patient is unique and Dr De Angelis will prescribe treatment tailored to your individual needs. The cost of treatment is therefore dependant on the type and duration of treatment and will vary from patient to patient. To assist with the cost of treatment we can arrange 0% interest free payment plan solutions to suit your budget and offer discounts for those who opt to pay in full at the commencement of treatment. Our payment plans can be organised for 24 months to make it more affordable for all. We also offer sibling discounts to families.

We now offer Spark clear aligners at the same price as braces! If you would like to straighten your teeth but don't want braces this gives our patients greater freedom to choose the treatment that's right for them and their lifestyle.Spark clear aligners work exactly like the leading clear aligner brand on the market. They are almost invisible and gently and precisely straighten teeth.If you are considering Invisalign or Spark clear aligners we also offer 0% interest free payment plan solutions (over 24 or 30 months) to suit your budget and offer discounts for those who opt to pay in full at the commencement of treatment. We also offer sibling discounts to families.On occasion we have promotions where you can receive a certain amount off the cost of clear aligner treatment. Ask our reception staff if we have any current promotions on offer when you call to book your appointment.

A portion of you or your child's orthodontic treatment may be covered as part of your 'extras' cover with your private health insurance company. Whilst our staff cannot directly liaise with your private health insurer on your behalf, our team will provide you with all the information you require at your initial consultation to discuss any rebate you may be entitled to and we encourage all our clients to discuss this prior to treatment commencing.Check out our blog post HERE for more information on how private health insurance and orthodontics.

Yes! Cost shouldn't be a barrier to your dream smile.

• Flexible Payment Plans - tailored to each patient's individual needs and circumstances (because you are as unique as your new smile!)
• Interest Free - always!
• Flexible and Extended Plans - affordable monthly instalments over 20 or 24 months to suit your budget (because cost shouldn't be a barrier).
• Discounts - for those who opt to pay in full
• Family and Sibling Discounts
• Transforming Families Program - free consultation inc. X-rays, scans and photos for family members (of our awesome patients!)

Call our office as soon as possible. We can be contacted during business hours on 133 862.

Call us as soon as you notice a loose band or bracket so we can schedule an appointment to reattach the loose appliance. Until then, the loose band or bracket can be left in place.

Cover it with wax, or tuck it under the arch wire with a blunt object, like a pencil eraser or the end of a match stick.

A broken arch wire or one that is irritating the gum or cheek tissue needs to be seen as soon as possible for replacement or adjustment.

A broken removable appliance should still be worn if possible until an adjustment can be made. Please call us to arrange an appointment so we can do this for you as soon as possible.

We will need to replace or adjust the appliance as soon as possible. Please call us so we can do this for you.