Orthodontics
SMILE ALIGNMENT CARE
Orthodontics in Maroochydore
Orthodontic treatment addresses misaligned, crowded, or crooked teeth and can benefit patients of all ages. At Cotton Tree Dental in Maroochydore, we assess each patient’s teeth, jaw development, and individual orthodontic needs before recommending a treatment plan. Our team discusses all available options, including traditional braces and clear aligner therapy, at your initial consultation.
THE CLEAR ALTERNATIVE TO BRACES
What Is Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment uses appliances such as braces or clear aligners to progressively move teeth into a more functional and aligned position. Treatment may address crowding, spacing, or bite and alignment issues that affect dental health. At Cotton Tree Dental, each case is assessed individually to determine the most appropriate approach.
How Does the Orthodontic Process Work?
One-on-One Attention at Every Step of Your Orthodontic Treatment Journey.
Personalised Consultation
Your consultation includes a thorough review of your teeth, jaw, and bite. Your dentist outlines available orthodontic options and takes time to answer your questions fully.
Your Treatment Plan
Following your assessment, a tailored treatment plan is prepared outlining your recommended orthodontic option, the expected duration, and the associated costs.
Ongoing Progress Reviews
Your orthodontic journey involves regular appointments to monitor progress, make adjustments, and address any concerns. Our team is available throughout your treatment to support you at each stage.
READY TO BEGIN?
RESERVE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY
Booking a consultation at Cotton Tree Dental is straightforward. Our team is ready to discuss your orthodontic options and arrange a suitable appointment time.
Why Choose Orthodontic Treatment at Cotton Tree Dental?
- Discreet options such as clear aligners and ceramic braces available
- Suitable for teens and adults with varying treatment needs
- Flexible payment plans available to spread treatment costs
- Experienced team assessing and managing orthodontic cases
A Considered Approach to Orthodontic Care
At Cotton Tree Dental, orthodontic treatment is planned with your needs in mind. Whether you are a parent exploring options for a child, a teen commencing treatment, or an adult considering care, our team explains your options and maps a treatment pathway suited to your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
The duration of orthodontic treatment varies considerably between patients depending on the complexity of the alignment issue, the type of appliance used, and how the teeth respond over time. Minor cases may be addressed in several months, while more complex cases involving significant crowding, spacing, or bite concerns can take considerably longer.
Your dentist will provide an estimated treatment timeline at your initial consultation after assessing your teeth and jaw. This estimate is reviewed throughout treatment as progress is monitored, and the timeline may be adjusted based on how the teeth are responding. Speak with our team if you have questions about your orthodontic timeline at any stage.
At what age should children have an orthodontic assessment?
An orthodontic assessment is often recommended around the age of seven, when the first permanent molars and incisors have typically emerged. An early assessment allows your dentist to identify any developing issues with tooth alignment or jaw development.
Early assessment does not necessarily mean early treatment. In many cases, the dentist will advise monitoring the child’s development over time before recommending intervention. However, early identification can help with planning and may reduce the complexity or duration of treatment needed later. Contact Cotton Tree Dental to book an orthodontic assessment for your child at any time.
Does orthodontic treatment cause discomfort?
It is common to experience some pressure or mild discomfort in the days following the initial fitting of braces or after each adjustment appointment. This typically settles within a few days as the teeth and surrounding structures adapt to the change in position. Clear aligner patients may notice mild pressure when switching to a new set of trays.
Over-the-counter pain relief is generally sufficient to manage any discomfort during the adjustment period. Avoiding hard or chewy foods immediately after adjustments can also help reduce soreness. Contact our team if you have ongoing concerns about discomfort at any stage of treatment.
Can I play sports while wearing braces or aligners?
Yes, patients can generally continue playing sports during orthodontic treatment. Patients wearing fixed braces are strongly advised to wear a custom-fitted mouthguard during contact sports to protect both the braces and the soft tissue of the mouth in the event of impact. A standard mouthguard may not fit correctly over braces, so a custom option is recommended.
Clear aligner patients can remove their aligners during sport if preferred, though they should be reinserted promptly to maintain the required daily wear time. Consistent wear is important for keeping treatment on schedule and achieving the planned outcome. Speak with our team if you have questions about mouthguards or aligner wear during sports.
What happens after orthodontic treatment ends?
Once active treatment is complete and the appliances are removed, retainers are prescribed to maintain the teeth in their new position. Without retention, teeth have a tendency to drift back toward their original position over time, which is a normal biological process.
Retainers may be removable or fixed behind the teeth, depending on your case and preference. Your dentist will advise on the most appropriate type of retainer, how often it should be worn, and how long retention will need to continue. Following the recommended retention schedule is an important part of protecting the outcome of your orthodontic treatment. Speak with your dentist at Cotton Tree Dental for specific guidance on your retention requirements.
What is the difference between traditional braces and clear aligners?
Traditional braces use metal or ceramic brackets bonded to the teeth and connected by wires to move the teeth progressively. They are fixed in place throughout the entire treatment period and are adjusted at regular appointments.
Clear aligners such as Invisalign use a series of custom-made removable plastic trays to shift the teeth incrementally. They are generally less visible than braces and can be removed for eating, drinking, and cleaning. However, aligners require disciplined daily wear of around 20 to 22 hours to be effective. Your dentist will discuss which option suits your alignment needs, lifestyle, and treatment goals at your consultation. Contact our team to arrange a consultation and discuss which option is right for your case.
How do I maintain oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment?
Maintaining oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment requires additional care compared to routine brushing and flossing. Fixed braces create more surfaces where food and plaque can accumulate, so brushing after every meal and using interdental brushes or floss threaders to clean between brackets and wires is recommended. A fluoride mouthwash can also help protect the tooth enamel around the brackets throughout treatment.
Patients wearing clear aligners should remove them before eating and clean their teeth before reinserting. The aligners themselves should be rinsed and cleaned daily. Your dentist will provide specific oral hygiene guidance tailored to your appliance type at your consultation and ongoing review appointments.
How much does orthodontic treatment cost?
The cost of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the type of appliance used, the complexity of the case, and the estimated duration of treatment. A detailed cost estimate is provided following your initial consultation and clinical assessment, once a treatment plan has been prepared.
Cotton Tree Dental offers flexible payment plans through SuperCare and TLC to help manage the cost of orthodontic care over time. We accept HICAPS and most major health funds. Cover for orthodontic treatment varies between health funds and policy types, so we recommend contacting your fund directly to confirm what is included under your level of cover before commencing treatment.
200+ 5-star Reviews
Real smiles, real confidence
See the transformations we’re proud of.
Work We Are Proud Of
