Have you ever wondered if there is a simple way to fix a tooth which is overlapped or sticking up out of position? Orthodontics is not just for teenagers…, all ages can achieve a beautiful smile with a little help from Dr Downing.

What is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the application of force to produce movement of teeth. There can be many reasons why teeth are mis-aligned or crowded. These include environment, habits and genetics. As we get older, due to the changes in shape of our jaw bones, our teeth get more out of alignment and even perfectly straight teeth can end up crooked.

There are two major options in orthodontics today. Clear removable aligner therapy such as Invisalign or fixed orthodontics with bonded brackets and wires. Each case is assessed on its appropriateness for that person. Most cases can be treated with either fixed braces or Invisalign.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is the most advanced clear aligner system on the market today with the ability to solve most dentally related orthodontic problems. The clear aligners fit exactly over your teeth. The aligners are changed every two weeks and with each aligner the teeth are moved sequentially. Invisalign treatment can be a full case where any number of aligners can be used or they can be Lite case where a maximum of 14 aligners are issued. Very minor cases that can be solved with i7 may only use 7 aligners.

Dr Downing is a gold provider of Invisalign and as she has completed post graduate training in Orthodontics at Sydney University and is currently in the first graduating class of a Graduate Diploma in Aesthetic Orthodontics she is well positioned to provide the best advice to potential orthodontic patients. As a general practitioner she is able also to use her extensive general dentistry skills to enhance the final result.

Fixed orthodontics may still be the most appropriate treatment for some people and with the nearly invisible tooth-coloured brackets they can still be a highly aesthetic option. The most important part of orthodontics is the correct diagnosis and having the skill to deliver the results in the most efficient way.

Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign:

Can you have orthodontics as an adult?

Yes adult orthodontics is widespread and very successful. Teeth still move in the same way no matter what your age. Older patients and patients on some medications may have longer treatment times

How much does Invisalign cost?

Fees vary depending on the complexity of the case. Fees may range from $900 to $7000. Check my offer on Smile Deals for current specials!

What if I have missing teeth?

In some cases we close the space, in other cases we may create the ideals space for placing a replacement tooth There are always many treatment options and it is important that you are aware of all the options available. Being a general practitioner with all modalities on offer I am happy to provide all the different treatment options with no particular solution bias.

Won’t my teeth just move again?

Holding your beautiful new smile is a very important part of your treatment. It takes many years for bone to mature around newly positioned teeth. Many of the forces that caused the crowding in the first place are still present so no matter who or what type of orthodontics you have had done, retention is a very important part of the finished result.

Does Invisalign hurt?

Everyone feels pain a little bit differently. In general I have less pain with my Invisalign patients than with fixed orthodontic patients. No one experiences pain that requires more than a Panadol to eliminate. Most of the pain is at the beginning of treatment before the teeth start to move. Invisalign has the advantage of being removable so you can get some relief.

If you are interested is visiting Dr. Downing’s office for a Free Smile Assessment, click the link below and start your journey to a new smile!

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