Orthodontics

Straight white teeth are key to self-confidence and a winning smile

The important thing to remember when choosing an orthodontic provider is that experience counts. At McIntosh Dental, Dr McIntosh and Dr Raniga have successfully treated thousands of patients and stay at the forefront of their profession by regularly attending lectures at home and abroad. Dr McIntosh and Dr Raniga are also respected speakers on orthodontics to other members of the dental profession.

We are in a unique position to provide comprehensive orthodontic treatment. Because we are also general dentists, we can ensure that all aspects of your dental care are addressed, including your orthodontic treatment. For kids, we also provide free dental care from Year 9 – 18 years old and have an on-site oral surgeon for management of wisdom teeth

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontic treatment includes the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Such irregularities often take the form of ‘malocclusion’ (bad bite – problem in the way teeth fit together).

Malocclusion affects more that just appearance:

• Crooked, crowded, or protruding teeth are more difficult to clean
• Misaligned teeth can create tension and pain in the jaw joints
• Emotional problems arise because of the effect on speech and the unattractive appearance.

Malocclusion is hereditary, caused by discrepancies in the size of the jaw and teeth. Sometimes, it is also the result of such habits as thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting and lip biting, or premature loss of teeth.

The first step in orthodontic treatment is a consultation with one of our dentists. This appointment will give you an idea of the type of treatment required and the approximate fees.

The next appointment involves a full examination of the teeth. This may include facial measurements, photographs, plaster study models, and x-rays of the head, jaws and teeth. Any additional oral problems, such as dental decay or gum disease are treated before orthodontic treatment begins.

Fixed and removable appliances

There are different types of "appliances" that dentists and orthodontists use to align teeth into the perfect opposition.

Functional appliances

These are usually removable plates that work with the growth of the face and jaw to move teeth into position.

Traditional Braces

Braces are a combination of brackets and wires that are attached to the teeth. The special shape of the wires gently moves teeth into position.

Cosmetic Braces (Tooth coloured white braces)

New advances in dental materials mean we can now use white braces in place of traditional metal braces. The white braces are made of a ceramic material are far less visible.

Do I or my child need orthodontics?

Look at your smile or your child's smile in a mirror.

Answer these questions with a "yes" or "no". If you answer yes to any of these questions, then call us to schedule an orthodontic consultation where we can examine your teeth.

Do you have:

• 1. Top front teeth that stick out ("bucked teeth")
• 2. Top front teeth that cover more than 25% of your bottom teeth when you bite together?
• 3. A visible space between the top and bottom teeth when you bite together
• 4. Bottom teeth that are in front of the top teeth?
• 5. Teeth that are crowded or overlapped
• 6. Baby teeth falling out very early or very late
• 7. Extra teeth present?
• 8. Top and bottom front teeth with centres that don’t line up?
• 9. Problems with biting the cheek, gums or tongue?
• 10. Difficulty chewing or biting with teeth that don't meet evenly on both sides
• 11. Teeth that are wearing unevenly
• 12. Jaws that shift off centre when the teeth bite together
• 13. Large gaps between teeth