Orthodontics
If you have issues with your teeth aligning, or a bad bite – also known as malocclusion- you should see an orthodontist. Orthodontic treatment aims to correct these issues, giving you a more comfortable bite and beautifully straight teeth.
Straight Teeth – More Than Just Cosmetics
While straight teeth certainly look great, there are many reasons to pursue a winning smile. Crooked teeth and a misaligned jaw can cause complications such as:
How Orthodontic Problems Affect Long-Term Oral Health
Orthodontic concerns are not limited to appearance. Misaligned teeth and bite issues can have a lasting impact on your overall oral health if left untreated. When teeth are crowded or uneven, it becomes more difficult to clean effectively, increasing the risk of plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease. Bite problems can also place uneven pressure on certain teeth, leading to premature wear, chipping, or sensitivity.
Jaw misalignment may contribute to discomfort, including tension in the jaw muscles or difficulty opening and closing your mouth comfortably. In some cases, it can also affect how clearly you speak or how efficiently you chew food. Identifying these issues early allows for more predictable management and can help prevent more complex dental problems later.
At Alexandra Hills Dental, we focus on recognising these functional concerns during assessments so treatment planning supports both your oral health and daily comfort.
When To See A Specialist Orthodontist
Your first orthodontic visit should be before you’re even aware there is an issue. It is recommended that children between the ages of 7-9 are assessed by an orthodontist or a specially trained dentist.
Here at Alexandra Hills Dental, Dr Webert Chen has undergone further study to be able to provide orthodontic treatment to his patients. In every routine dental check up, your teeth’s alignment will be checked, and in the case of children, options provided to prevent further complications at different stages of growth. But don’t be deterred if you’re over 18! Orthodontic diagnosis & treatment is becoming more and more popular among adults, and it’s never too late to get that winning smile!
Treatment Options
The best time to begin orthodontic treatment plans is around the age of 12 when the last of the baby teeth have fallen and adult teeth have taken their place. Orthodontic treatment can be implemented at any age with good outcomes, however, treatment in adults tends to take longer. This is due to adolescent jawbones being softer and easier to manipulate as they are still growing.
For some significant malocclusions, braces alone may not be sufficient and surgery may be required to get the ideal result.
Why Choose Alexandra Hills Dental for Orthodontics in Alexandra Hills
At Alexandra Hills Dental, we provide orthodontic treatment for children, teens, and adults to correct crooked teeth, crowding, spacing, and bite issues (malocclusion) that can affect chewing, speech, gum health, and jaw comfort. Your orthodontic care is delivered by Dr Webert Chen, who has undertaken further study to provide orthodontic treatment for our patients, with every plan based on a detailed clinical assessment. Whether you’re considering braces or clear aligners, our goal is to create a healthier bite and a straighter smile with a treatment approach that fits your lifestyle, timeline, and long-term dental health.
What to Expect at Your Orthodontic Consultation
Your orthodontic consultation at Alexandra Hills Dental is designed to be thorough and clear, so you understand your options and feel confident about the next steps. We assess your teeth alignment and bite, take detailed photographs, perform X-rays of your teeth and jaw, and take an impression to create a 3D mould of your teeth for planning. We’ll discuss your concerns, explain whether braces, clear aligners, or another approach is most suitable, and answer common questions about treatment length, comfort, and results—so you can make an informed decision and move forward with the right orthodontic plan.
Maintaining Results After Orthodontic Treatment
Completing orthodontic treatment is an important milestone, but maintaining your results is just as essential. Teeth naturally have a tendency to shift over time, which is why retainers are commonly recommended after active treatment has finished. Retainers help stabilise your new tooth positions and protect the time invested in your orthodontic care.
The type of retainer and how often it should be worn will depend on your individual case. Some patients may only need to wear retainers at night, while others may require more consistent use initially. Good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups also play a key role in preserving your results and ensuring your teeth and gums remain healthy.
Our team provides clear guidance on post-treatment care so you understand how to maintain your smile long term. Ongoing support helps ensure your orthodontic outcome remains stable and functional.
Get Optimal Results With Alexandra Hills Dental
Our orthodontic consultations are designed to be thorough and help us formulate the best possible plan for you. In addition to visually checking your mouth and teeth we will:
- Take an impression of your teeth and use it to create a 3d mould.
- Take detailed photographs of your jaw, mouth and teeth.
- X-ray your teeth and jaw.
- Discuss any concerns you have regarding pain or difficulty from your teeth and jaw.