A straighter smile isn’t just about aesthetics—it improves your oral health, too. At Chic Dental, our orthodontics Melbourne specialists transform crooked, gapped, and misaligned teeth into confident, photo-ready smiles.
With options ranging from nearly invisible Invisalign aligners to modern, streamlined braces, our advanced orthodontic solutions can give you the confidence you deserve.
Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that utilises clear aligners to correct misaligned teeth, providing a discreet alternative to traditional metal brackets. Using a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners, Invisalign gradually shifts your teeth into their ideal positions without metal brackets or wires.
The journey to straight teeth with Invisalign begins with an initial consultation at a dental clinic. During this visit, we will evaluate the patient’s oral health. It’s crucial to resolve any pre-existing dental concerns like tooth decay or gum disease.
Using advanced digital imaging technology, the dentist captures a precise 3D model of the patient’s teeth. After the treatment plan is authorised, tailored aligners are crafted accordingly. Each set of aligners is designed to make incremental adjustments to the teeth’s position, applying gentle pressure to shift teeth gradually into the desired alignment.
Patients will receive a series of aligners, each to be worn for about two weeks before switching to the next in the series. It’s crucial that the aligners are worn for 20 to 22 hours a day to achieve the desired effects on schedule.
Once all sets of aligners have been used and the teeth have reached their optimal positions, the active phase of the orthodontic treatment concludes. We will conduct a final assessment to ensure that the alignment goals have been achieved.
Today’s braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more efficient than ever before. At Chic Dental, our traditional braces utilise state-of-the-art materials and techniques.
Our dentist will assess the patient’s oral health, noting any misaligned teeth, overbites, underbites, or other irregularities. This evaluation often includes X-rays, 3D scans, and photographs to capture a complete view of the patient’s dental structure for a personalised treatment plan.
Braces typically consist of brackets, archwires, and ties. Each tooth is affixed with brackets using a specialised dental adhesive, with archwires subsequently threaded through them, serving as a pathway to direct the teeth’s movement. Ties, or small rubber bands, hold the archwires to the brackets.
The core mechanism by which braces work involves the careful adjustment of the archwires. These wires are engineered to apply gentle, continuous pressure on the teeth. During regular follow-up appointments, the dentist adjusts these wires to gradually move the teeth toward their correct positions.
Once the braces are removed, the retention phase begins. During this period, retainers are worn as directed by the dentist to prevent the teeth from reverting to their former positions.
Orthodontic treatment is a significant investment in dental health, enhancing both the functionality and aesthetics of a smile. However, the cost can vary widely depending on several factors. Understanding these variables is essential for people considering orthodontic options. Here, we explore the key factors that impact the pricing of orthodontic care.
The type of braces chosen is one of the primary determinants of cost. Traditional metal braces are generally the most economical, while newer, more discreet options like ceramic braces or lingual braces tend to be more expensive. Clear aligner systems such as Invisalign also vary in price, often costing more than conventional braces due to the materials and technology involved.
The complexity and severity of a patient's dental issues play a critical role in determining the cost. Simple cases that require minor corrections will generally be less expensive than those requiring major adjustments to correct severe misalignments or bite issues.
The length of time required to complete the orthodontic treatment can significantly affect the overall cost. Longer treatment times, which may involve more frequent adjustments and visits to the dentist, naturally incur higher overall fees.
The cost of orthodontic care can vary significantly based on geographic location. Practices located in metropolitan and more affluent areas often have higher rates due to increased overhead costs and higher living expenses in these regions.
The dentist's level of expertise and reputation can also influence the cost of treatment. Highly experienced dentists or those who are particularly well-regarded in their field may charge more for their services, reflecting their expertise and the demand for their care.
Often, orthodontic treatment requires preliminary dental work such as tooth extraction, treatment for gum disease, or even bone grafting if adequate bone support is lacking. These additional dental treatments add to the overall cost.
The extent of dental insurance coverage can greatly impact out-of-pocket expenses for orthodontic treatment. Some insurance plans cover a substantial part of orthodontic care, especially for patients under a certain age, while others may offer limited or no coverage.
Several orthodontic clinics provide payment plans or financing arrangements to make treatment costs more manageable. These plans can make orthodontic care more accessible by spreading the financial burden over several months or even years.
At Chic Dental, we provide two primary orthodontic solutions: traditional metal braces and Invisalign clear aligners. Traditional braces offer precise control for complex cases, while Invisalign provides a nearly invisible alternative perfect for image-conscious teens and adults.
Treatment duration varies based on complexity, with simple cases taking 6-12 months, moderate cases 12-18 months, and complex cases involving bite correction 18-24+ months. Consistent compliance with treatment protocols (wearing aligners 20-22 hours daily or maintaining braces properly) is the key factor in achieving results on schedule.
Braces work through controlled force application over time. Metal brackets are bonded to teeth and connected by an archwire, creating pressure that gradually shifts teeth into alignment. The periodontal ligament (tissue around tooth roots) responds to this pressure, triggering bone remodeling—bone is resorbed on the pressure side and formed on the tension side, allowing teeth to move into new positions.
Orthodontic treatment pricing is influenced by:
At Chic Dental, we provide transparent pricing and flexible payment plans to make orthodontic treatment accessible. A detailed quote is provided during your consultation based on your specific needs.
Orthodontic treatment typically causes temporary discomfort rather than sharp pain. You may experience:
Over-the-counter pain relievers, dental wax for brackets, and soft foods during adjustment periods effectively manage any discomfort.
Absolutely! There's no age limit for orthodontic treatment, provided you have healthy gums and adequate bone support. Many adults choose Invisalign for its discreet appearance.
Most patients experience minor speech adjustments (slight lisping) for just a few days after starting treatment. This adaptation period is typically shorter with braces and slightly longer with Invisalign, but regular talking quickly helps your mouth adjust. The effect is usually so minimal that only you notice it, and it resolves completely as you adapt to your orthodontic appliances.
Yes, retainers are essential for maintaining your results long-term. Without retention, teeth naturally drift back toward their original positions—a biological process called relapse. Most patients follow a protocol of full-time retainer wear for 3-6 months, then transitioning to nighttime-only wear.
Often, yes. Misaligned teeth and improper bite can contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, causing jaw pain, headaches, and even ear pain or ringing. By correcting your bite alignment, orthodontic treatment can reduce stress on the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, potentially alleviating these symptoms.
The best choice depends on several factors:
During your consultation at Chic Dental, we'll discuss these factors and recommend the option that best suits your specific needs, preferences, and lifestyle.
The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends an initial orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Many children benefit from two-phase treatment—early intervention around age 8-10 to guide jaw development, followed by comprehensive treatment after all permanent teeth have erupted.
