Traditional braces are designed to help straighten teeth and improve bite alignment. Also known as metal or conventional braces, they consist of metal brackets, archwires, and elastic bands attached to the front of teeth.

Modern traditional braces feature a smaller, sleeker design compared to older versions. They remain a common orthodontic treatment option for both children and adults.

Traditional braces treatment carries risks including:

• Tooth decay and gum disease if oral hygiene is inadequate during treatment
• Root resorption (shortening of tooth roots)
• Discomfort, mouth sores, and ulcers from brackets (especially during first few weeks)
• Temporary speech difficulties during adjustment period
• Rare allergic reactions to metal components
• Enamel demineralisation (white spot lesions) if hygiene is poor
• Tooth relapse if retention protocol not followed after treatment

During treatment:

• Discomfort is normal for 2-3 days after each adjustment appointment
• Mouth sores common during first few weeks as you adjust to brackets
• Emergency appointments may be needed for broken brackets or poking wires
• Increased oral hygiene time required (brushing and flossing takes longer)

After treatment: Retainers must be worn as directed to maintain results. Long-term retainer wear (often indefinitely at night) is typically required. Teeth may shift back toward their original positions if retention protocol is not followed.

When worn as directed, traditional braces may offer several advantages. However, outcomes vary between individuals:

• Versatility – Traditional braces can be used for various orthodontic concerns including crowding, spacing, and bite misalignment. However, not all cases can be fully corrected, and individual results vary.
• Design options – Available in different colours, which may appeal to children and teenagers.
• Cost considerations – Traditional braces are often less expensive than some alternative treatment options. Visit our cost information page for details.

Adults: Typically 18-36 months depending on case complexity, bone density, and treatment compliance. Simple alignment issues may be shorter; complex cases involving bite correction may take longer.

Children/Teenagers: Typically 18-24 months, though this varies significantly by individual case and compliance.

Treatment duration depends on:

• Case complexity
• Age and growth factors
• Compliance with wear instructions and dietary restrictions
• Attendance at adjustment appointments
• Individual biological response

Non-compliance may extend treatment time significantly or compromise results.

The initial fitting process typically takes 1-2 hours. Your dentist will clean and dry your teeth, apply adhesive, attach brackets, and place the archwire secured with elastic bands.

You’ll need regular adjustment appointments (typically monthly) throughout treatment.

Phase I (Early Intervention) Early treatment between ages 7-10, before all permanent teeth have erupted. This phase aims to guide jaw development and create space for permanent teeth. It may help address specific concerns early but does not replace full orthodontic treatment.

Observation Phase Monitoring period between Phase I and Phase II. Space maintainers or retainers may be worn during this time.

Phase II Full braces treatment once permanent teeth have erupted (typically ages 11-13). This phase positions permanent teeth to improve function and alignment. Treatment typically lasts 12-24 months, though individual cases vary.

Retention requirements apply after Phase II treatment is complete.

Dietary restrictions: Avoid hard, crunchy, sticky, and chewy foods that can damage brackets or get stuck in braces. Cut firm vegetables and fruits into small pieces.

Oral hygiene: Brush and floss after every meal. This takes more time with braces but is essential to prevent decay and staining. Your dentist may recommend special brushes for hard-to-reach areas.

Appointments: Attend all scheduled adjustment appointments. Missing appointments may extend your treatment time.

Several payment options may be available including interest-free payment plans. Private health insurance coverage varies significantly – some policies include orthodontic coverage with waiting periods and annual limits. Contact your health fund directly to understand your coverage.

We offer complimentary consultations to discuss treatment options and provide cost estimates.

Other orthodontic options include:

• Invisalign – Clear removable aligners suitable for certain cases
• Lingual braces – Brackets placed on the back of teeth
• Damon braces – Self-ligating brackets with different mechanism

Each option has different benefits, limitations, costs, and suitability factors. We’ll discuss which option may be most appropriate for your individual situation during your assessment.

Individual outcomes vary significantly. Treatment results depend on your specific case complexity, compliance with treatment protocols, and individual biological response. Outcomes are specific to individual patients and do not reflect results others may experience.

Treatment aims to improve tooth alignment and bite function. Outcomes vary between individuals depending on initial condition complexity, treatment compliance, age, growth factors, and individual biological response.

Not all orthodontic issues can be fully corrected. We’ll discuss realistic expectations for your specific situation during your consultation.

We offer complimentary initial consultations. We’ll examine your teeth, discuss suitable treatment options, and provide a personalised treatment plan.

During your consultation, we will discuss:

• Your treatment goals
• Suitable treatment options for your individual case
• Realistic expectations for outcomes based on your specific situation
• Treatment costs and payment options
• Detailed information about risks and recovery

Contact our Sippy Downs practice on (07) 5477 0889 to schedule your assessment.

Important Notes

• This website provides general information only. Individual cases vary significantly.
• Outcomes are specific to individual patients and do not reflect results others may experience.
• A thorough examination is required before any treatment recommendations can be made.
• We do not display patient testimonials or reviews.

All treatment decisions should be based on professional clinical assessment, not patient experiences. Our practice complies with AHPRA advertising guidelines for registered health practitioners.