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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.
Related Faqs
When is the best time to start orthodontic treatment?
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!
How does orthodontic treatment work?
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.
How do I make an appointment?
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.
What can I expect at the first appointment?
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.
Can I start treatment at the first appointment?
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.
Can I fast track treatment to straighten my teeth as quickly as possible?
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.
Do you have any real photos of patients you have treated?
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
What is retention?
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.
How can I take care of my teeth if I’m wearing braces or clear aligners?
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.