How much does braces cost?
It’s one of the first things most people want to know – how much does orthodontic treatment actually cost? Without an initial consultation, it’s near impossible to determine the cost of orthodontic treatment. Each case differs from one to the next, and there’s no ‘one size fits all’ price. That said, when it comes to braces, anywhere between $5,000 and $9,000 for a standard 18-month treatment plan for upper and lower braces can be expected. More aesthetically pleasing treatment options, such as lingual braces and clear aligners cost more to manufacture which can increase the cost of treatment. The cost of orthodontic treatment can also depend on the length of your treatment plan and what problems are being corrected. If you have health insurance you may be entitled to claim a portion of the treatment cost back from your health fund, but because every case is different, it’s important to check with your fund prior to starting treatment. It’s also worth talking with your orthodontist about what payment plans are available, as Love your Smile Orthodontics allows for their patients to pay off their treatment in instalments over the duration of the treatment through an approved payment plan.
Do l have to pay up front?
No we offer payment plans. A small deposit is required the day you get your braces on. However if you wish to pay up front you receive a discount for doing so.
Can you give me a rough price for how much my braces will cost over the phone?
At Love Your Smile Orthodontics we assess your teeth, discuss your orthodontic options and offer customised treatment plans to suit your orthodontic needs. Each personalised treatment plan is individually quoted and is based on what orthodontic treatment you decide on.
What to expect during your first consultation?
Your first orthodontic consultation is your first step towards achieving a beautiful smile. During your consultation, a member of the orthodontic practice will take x-rays, photographs and digital scans (or plaster moulds) of your teeth. These will be given to the orthodontist to evaluate and share with you in the second part of your consultation. You’ll also meet your orthodontist and have the chance to address any concerns you may have before they assess your teeth, gums, facial shape and bite. Your orthodontist will then be able to discuss whether treatment is needed, and all the options that are most suitable for you. An orthodontic appointment generally takes 30 – 60 minutes and we recommend booking well in advance.
How often are my appointments?
Your appointments are usually every 6 to 8 weeks.
Do l need to see my general dentist while l have braces?
Yes, continue to see your regularly general dentist for your 6 monthly check ups whilst you have braces. It is important to ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy during treatment and afterwards. Even though you are seeing the Orthodontist regularly they do not check your teeth for dental issues.
How long do l wear braces for?
Generally speaking most people have braces on for 18 to 24 months. Your orthodontist will be able to give you a more accurate time frame based on your treatment plan and orthodontic needs.
What are the benefits of Orthodontic treatment?
Having a beautiful smile can be a great confidence boost. Orthodontic treatment may have additional benefits including, making it easier to clean your teeth and gums, helping to maintain a long term healthy mouth and improving the functionality of your teeth. Orthodontics may also help with chewing or speech difficulties and can help manage habits such as thumb sucking.
When should my child first see an orthodontist?
Not all children will need early orthodontic treatment. However, in some cases early treatment can help avoid long-term problems or simplify later treatment. Visiting the orthodontist between the ages of 7-10 will allow assessment of the development of the teeth and jaws and will provide information on the optimum timing for any treatment required.
If my child or I need treatment what are the options available?
Love Your Smile Orthodontics offer a range of orthodontic options to suit your individual needs. We offer conventional fixed orthodontic braces, fixed orthodontic appliances and removable orthodontic appliances. We also have cosmetic options available such as lingual braces, Invisalign aligners and ceramic clear braces. Orthodontics has evolved over the years giving you more options that are less bulky, discreet and more efficient.
Treatment Do’s and Dont’s
For all age groups and appliance systems one of the major determinants of treatment success is patients compliance. You can help your treatment efficiency by:
- Coming to all your scheduled appointments.
- Continuing to have regular ‘ normal’ dental check-ups with your general dentist.
- Maintaining excellent tooth brushing and flossing.
- Avoiding a high sugar diet and cutting out sugary foods and drinks especially in between meals and within an hour of bedtime.
- Avoiding foods and drinks high in acid such as fruit juice, fizzy drinks including diet fizzy drinks, sports drinks and energy drinks.
- Avoiding food that is too hard, crunchy, sticky or chewy which may break the fixed braces causing discomfort and slowing progress.
- Making sure you wear your removable appliances for the number of hours requested.
- Wearing your retainers to help hold the teeth in the desired position.
Servicing surrounding suburbs
We offer our Orthodontic services to surrounding the suburbs of Point Cook, Truganina, Tarneit, Laverton, Hoppers Crossing, Werribee and Altona.