Orthodontic treatment can move teeth in suitable cases. Treatment involves risks, discomfort and review, and timing and outcomes vary. Ongoing retention is needed. A dentist can discuss whether braces or another option is suitable. Read orthodontic risks, recovery and alternatives.
Orthodontics is a dental treatment designed to correct misaligned teeth and jaws. Misalignment can occur in many forms, such as crooked teeth, overcrowding, overbites, or underbites, all of which can affect your smile and oral function. While orthodontics can significantly improve the appearance of your teeth, it also offers practical benefits such as better oral hygiene, easier chewing, and a reduced risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease.
Orthodontic treatment can be used to address a variety of dental concerns, including:
When teeth are too close together or too far apart, it can make cleaning difficult and affect the appearance of your smile.
Issues like overbite, underbite, or crossbite can make it harder to chew or speak properly.
Malpositioned jaws can lead to discomfort, difficulty with chewing, and even pain in the face or neck.
Crooked or crowded teeth can trap food and plaque, leading to an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Orthodontic treatments work by gradually shifting the teeth into better positions, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing smile and improved oral function. At Hornsby Dental, we offer a variety of orthodontic treatments tailored to meet the unique needs of our patients.
Orthodontic treatment offers numerous benefits, both cosmetic and functional. Some of the key advantages include:
Orthodontic assessment considers tooth alignment, the bite and individual treatment needs.
Straight teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease.
The bite and proposed tooth movements require assessment. Some movements may not be achieved, and additional treatment or a change of plan may be needed.
Orthodontic treatment aims to improve tooth alignment. Ongoing retention and review are important, and teeth may move over time.
Orthodontics can help resolve a variety of dental concerns, including:
When there is not enough space for all the teeth, they may overlap or twist.
Large gaps between teeth can affect the aesthetics of your smile and create areas where food can get trapped.
A misalignment where the upper teeth protrude over the lower teeth (overbite) or the lower teeth extend beyond the upper teeth (underbite).
A condition where some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, which can lead to tooth wear and gum recession.
When the front teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed, making it difficult to chew.
Malposition of the jaw can cause pain or difficulty chewing, and may also affect the alignment of the teeth.
At Hornsby Dental, we offer two main orthodontic treatments: traditional braces and Invisalign. Each option has its benefits, and our experienced team will work with you to choose the best solution for your needs.
Braces are one of the most common and effective orthodontic treatments. They involve the use of metal or ceramic brackets and wires that are fixed to your teeth. Over time, the braces gradually shift your teeth into the desired position.
1. Consultation and Examination:
We will discuss your treatment goals and take diagnostic records (X-rays, photos, and impressions) to evaluate your dental needs.
2. Braces Placement:
Once your treatment plan is finalised, we will place the brackets and wires on your teeth.
3. Adjustment Appointments:
Regular appointments are necessary to adjust the wires and ensure your teeth are moving according to the plan.
4. Retainers:
After your braces are removed, you will need to wear retainers to maintain your new smile.
Invisalign is a popular alternative to traditional braces, particularly for adults and teens who want a more discreet orthodontic treatment option. Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners that gradually shift your teeth into alignment.
How Invisalign Works:
Invisalign aligners are custom-made using advanced 3D technology to create a treatment plan specifically for you. Each set of aligners is worn for about 1-2 weeks before being replaced by the next set in the series. The aligners apply gentle pressure to the teeth, gradually shifting them into position.
The cost of orthodontic treatment can vary depending on the complexity of your case and the type of treatment you choose. At Hornsby Dental, we offer orthodontic care at competitive fees, with a clear written quote before treatment begins.
At Hornsby Dental, traditional metal braces range from $4,000 to $8,000. The final price will depend on the complexity of your case, the type of braces selected (metal or ceramic), and the length of treatment required. This price includes the cost of adjustments, and retainers once your treatment is completed.
Invisalign treatment from $4,200 to $8,990, with the total cost depending on the complexity of your case and the number of aligners required.
| Braces | Invisalign | |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Metal or tooth-coloured brackets | Clear, removable aligners |
| Wear | Fixed, working all the time | 20 to 22 hours a day |
| Eating | Avoid hard and sticky foods | Remove aligners to eat |
| Cleaning | Extra care around brackets | Brush and floss as normal |
| Reviews | Every 4 to 8 weeks | Every 6 to 10 weeks |
| Cost at Hornsby Dental | $4,000 to $8,000 | $4,200 to $8,990 |
Many orthodontic organisations suggest a first check from around age 7 to 8, when problems such as crossbites and a lack of space are easier to manage. Most children start treatment in their early teens, once most adult teeth are through. Adults can straighten their teeth at any age as long as their teeth and gums are healthy. We see patients from Hornsby, Waitara, Asquith, Normanhurst, Thornleigh, Wahroonga and Hornsby Heights, and Saturday appointments make it easier to avoid missing school or work.
Most treatment takes between 12 and 24 months, followed by retainers. Simple alignment can be quicker and complex bite corrections can take longer.
No. There is no upper age limit for orthodontics. Healthy teeth and gums matter more than age.
No referral is needed to book an orthodontic consultation at Hornsby Dental. If your case needs a specialist orthodontist, we will refer you.
Yes. Teeth tend to move back towards their original positions, so retainers are worn after treatment to hold the result, usually long-term at night.
Many extras policies include orthodontics, often with a lifetime limit and a waiting period. We provide item numbers so you can check your cover.
These images show the outcome for the individual patients pictured. Results vary from person to person and are not a prediction of your outcome. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Contact our team to discuss your dental care options.
Book a complimentary consultation to discuss your clinical needs, relevant treatment options, risks, limitations and alternatives.
Orthodontic treatment at Hornsby Dental is provided by our general dentists. We offer Invisalign clear aligners ($4,200–$8,990) and braces ($4,000–$8,000) for teenagers and adults. Invisalign treatment starts with a digital iTero scan and a virtual smile review. If your case needs a specialist orthodontist, your dentist will discuss a referral.
Because we’re three minutes’ walk from Hornsby Station and open on Saturdays, regular reviews are easy to fit around school and work. Families come to us from Waitara, Asquith, Normanhurst, Thornleigh, Wahroonga and Mount Colah. See orthodontic examples.
No. Many of our orthodontic patients are adults. Traditional braces and Invisalign clear aligners both work at any age, as long as your teeth and gums are healthy.
At Hornsby Dental, traditional metal braces range from $4,000 to $8,000, and Invisalign ranges from $4,200 to $8,990. See our price list.
Both can give excellent results. Invisalign is almost invisible and removable; braces can suit more complex movements. Read Invisalign vs braces or ask us at a consultation.
It depends on your case – your dentist will give you an estimated treatment time at your consultation.
Yes. Retainers hold your teeth in their new position after treatment. Final retainers are included with Invisalign treatment.
