BRACES RINGWOOD VIC
Smile
with Expert Braces Solutions
Investing in orthodontic treatment is one of the most valuable decisions you can make for your health and confidence. At Virtuosum Orthodontics, we are committed to helping you achieve a smile that feels as good as it looks with high-quality braces treatment.
Braces offer a pathway to a lifetime of healthier teeth, addressing various alignment issues that benefit not only your appearance but also your overall well-being. With a wide range of options, we make it easy to find the right braces solution for your unique needs and lifestyle.
What Do Braces Do?
Braces are a specialized orthodontic treatment designed to gradually align and straighten teeth, correct bite issues, and improve overall dental health. Through the use of brackets, wires, and gentle, consistent pressure, braces move teeth into optimal positions over time. This process helps create a well-aligned, healthy smile that not only looks great but also functions better.
KEY BENEFITS:
Improved Dental Alignment
Braces correct crooked, crowded, or spaced-out teeth, enhancing the appearance and balance of your smile.
Enhanced Oral Health
Well-aligned teeth are easier to clean, helping reduce the risks of cavities, gum disease, and other common dental issues.
Corrected Bite Issues
Braces address overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites, which can alleviate jaw strain and prevent uneven wear on teeth.
Increased Confidence
Many people find that a straighter smile boosts self-esteem, adding comfort and confidence to daily interactions.
Long-Term Stability
Once braces treatment is complete, your newly aligned teeth are easier to maintain in their correct positions with the right post-treatment care.
Prevention of Future Problems
Correcting alignment and bite issues early can prevent the need for more extensive dental treatments later on, contributing to long-term dental health.
Convenient Care in Ringwood, VIC
Choosing orthodontic care close to home ensures you have easy access to appointments, adjustments, and any support you may need throughout your treatment. Virtuosum Orthodontics’ Ringwood location is designed with this convenience in mind, making it easier for local residents and those from surrounding areas to get the quality care they deserve.
Located in the heart of Ringwood, our practice is part of a vibrant community known for its natural beauty and family-friendly amenities. Between appointments, you can enjoy the lush scenery of Ringwood Lake Park or explore Eastland Shopping Centre, which offers a variety of dining and shopping options. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Mullum Mullum Trail provides beautiful walking and biking paths that showcase the area’s native wildlife and landscapes.
Your Braces Ringwood VIC Options
At Virtuosum Orthodontics, our range of treatments allows you to choose the style of braces that best fits your lifestyle, preferences, and orthodontic requirements. Here’s a look at the braces options available:
Metal Braces
PROS:
- Highly durable and resistant to breakage.
- Effective for treating even complex alignment issues.
- Option to personalize with colourful elastics.
CONS:
- More visible than other types of braces.
- May cause mild initial discomfort as you adjust to the brackets and wires.
PROS:
- Less noticeable than metal braces, ideal for patients who prefer a subtle look.
- Effective for a wide range of alignment issues.
CONS:
- More delicate than metal braces, requiring extra care.
- Can be more costly than traditional metal braces.
Ceramic Braces
For those seeking a more discreet option, ceramic braces use clear or tooth-coloured brackets that blend with your natural teeth. These braces function similarly to metal braces but are less noticeable, making them a great choice for patients concerned about aesthetics.
PROS:
- Reduced friction allows for smoother tooth movement, often making treatment more comfortable.
- Fewer orthodontic visits are needed for adjustments.
CONS:
- While less noticeable than traditional braces, they are still visible.
- May be slightly more expensive than traditional braces.
Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces are designed with clips rather than elastics to hold the archwire in place. This design allows for smoother tooth movement and may shorten treatment time. Available in both metal and ceramic, self-ligating braces are a comfortable and efficient option for many patients.
Lingual Braces
PROS:
- Completely hidden, ideal for those who want a discreet treatment option.
- Custom-fit for each patient, providing effective and precise results.
CONS:
- Often more costly than other braces options due to customization.
- May require a longer adjustment period and cause initial discomfort on the tongue.
PROS:
- Nearly invisible, offering a discreet and modern alternative to braces.
- Removable, allowing for easier eating, brushing, and flossing.
- Comfortable with no wires or brackets that might cause irritation.
CONS:
- Requires commitment to wearing the aligners 20-22 hours per day for effective results.
- Not suitable for all complex orthodontic cases.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, like Invisalign, are a popular choice for those seeking a nearly invisible, removable solution. These aligners are custom-made trays that fit snugly over your teeth and gradually shift them into place.
Possible Side Effects of Braces
- Temporary Discomfort: Mild soreness is common on the first day and after adjustments. This usually subsides after a few days.
- Irritation in the Mouth: Brackets and wires may initially cause irritation on your lips, tongue, or inner cheeks.
- Jaw Sensitivity: Some people experience mild jaw discomfort as the braces work to adjust alignment.
- Eating Challenges: You may have temporary difficulty eating certain foods, particularly after adjustments.
To manage any discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax can be helpful. Wax can be applied over any brackets or wires causing irritation, making your braces experience more comfortable as your mouth adjusts.
Braces Cost and Payment Options
The cost of braces depends on several factors, including:
- Type of braces, as some options are more costly due to materials or design.
- Case complexity, with more severe alignment or bite issues requiring specialized care.
- Treatment duration, where longer treatments may increase costs.
- Additional appliances or post-treatment needs, like retainers or adjustments.
After your consultation and imaging, we’ll provide a personalized quote based on your unique needs to help you plan your path to a healthier smile.
To make treatment costs more manageable, we offer interest-free payment plans that allow you to spread the cost of braces over time. Our flexible plans are designed to fit comfortably within your monthly budget, so you don’t have to delay your treatment due to financial concerns.
If you have dental insurance, our knowledgeable team can help you understand and maximize your benefits for orthodontic treatment. We provide assistance with filing claims and answering any questions to ensure you make the most of your coverage.
Caring for Your Braces
Daily Cleaning
Brushing and flossing become even more important with braces. Be sure to brush after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Flossing may require a threader or special orthodontic floss to reach between wires and brackets effectively.
Eating Guidelines
Certain foods can damage your braces, so it’s best to avoid sticky, chewy, hard, and crunchy foods. Instead, choose softer options and cut harder foods into small pieces to protect your brackets and wires.
Managing Discomfort
It’s normal to feel some soreness, especially after adjustments. Over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax can help. Apply wax over any areas where the braces might be causing irritation inside your mouth.
Protecting Your Braces During Sports
If you play sports, wearing a mouthguard is crucial to protect your braces and teeth from potential injury. Our team can recommend the right type of mouthguard for your braces to ensure you stay protected.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Braces treatment typically lasts between 18 to 24 months, but this can vary depending on the complexity of each case. During your initial consultation, our orthodontist will provide an estimated timeline based on your specific needs.
Braces can be suitable for patients of nearly all ages. For children, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial evaluation around age seven to identify any early issues. Many teens and adults also benefit from braces to correct alignment and bite concerns.
Yes, certain foods can damage braces or make cleaning more difficult. We recommend avoiding sticky, chewy, or hard foods such as gum, caramel, popcorn, and hard candies. Cutting harder foods, like raw vegetables and apples, into smaller pieces is also helpful.
Typically, patients with braces will need adjustment appointments every 4 to 8 weeks. These appointments allow us to monitor progress, make necessary adjustments, and ensure your treatment stays on track.
If a bracket or wire breaks, contact our office as soon as possible. We’ll schedule an appointment to fix the issue, as damaged braces can delay treatment progress. In the meantime, you can use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp or irritating parts.
Yes, you can still enjoy sports and play musical instruments with braces. For sports, we recommend wearing a mouthguard to protect your braces and teeth. With musical instruments, there may be a short adjustment period, but most patients adapt quickly.
Mild discomfort, especially after adjustments, is normal. Over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax can help manage any irritation from brackets or wires. A warm saltwater rinse can also be soothing.
Yes, it’s important to continue regular dental check-ups and cleanings with your general dentist while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Your dentist will help maintain the health of your teeth and gums throughout your braces journey.
After braces are removed, wearing a retainer is crucial to keep your teeth in their new positions. Without it, your teeth may gradually shift back, undoing the results of your treatment. Our team will provide instructions for retainer use to help maintain your smile.
If you consistently wear your retainer as recommended, your teeth should stay in their corrected positions. However, natural changes in your mouth can sometimes occur over the years. Regular retainer use can significantly reduce the likelihood of needing further treatment.
Journey
to a Healthier Smile
Take the first step toward achieving a smile you’ll love with Virtuosum Orthodontics. Our team is here to guide you through each stage of your braces Ringwood VIC treatment, making sure you feel supported and informed along the way. With convenient, high-quality care right here in Ringwood, a healthier, more confident smile is within reach.