Orthodontic FAQs

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry which specialises in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment alignment issues of the teeth and jaws.

In Australia, a Specialist Orthodontist has completed:

• A five-year, full-time bachelor degree in dentistry.
• At least two years of full-time general practice as a dentist.
• A three-year, full-time Masters or Clinical Doctorate degree in orthodontics.
• Registration as a Specialist Orthodontist by a State Dental Board.

While all Specialist Orthodontists started as dentists, they have gone on to specialise in straightening smiles. They are the most qualified people to diagnose and prevent issues with tooth and jaw alignment.

No. We are more than happy to accept referrals from your dentist, but referrals aren’t necessary. You can contact us directly for an appointment.

The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening between ages 7 and 8. By this age, some of the adult teeth will have erupted. It is often not necessary to treat at this time, but we can form a plan to catch and treat developing problems early on.

We do everything we can to avoid tooth extractions at our practice, but sometimes it is necessary to achieve the best results from your orthodontic treatment. Dr Hamilton-Ritchie will advise you if he thinks extraction is your best option.

Treatment length varies greatly depending on each patient’s specific orthodontic needs. In general, the average time frame for orthodontic treatment is around 18 to 24 months.

The complexity, length, and type of treatment all affect the custom treatment costs. As a general guide, single arch treatment usually starts around $4500, and complex treatment starts around $7200. This includes 18-24 months of treatment and three years of follow-up with retainers.

The complexity, length, and type of treatment all affect the custom treatment costs. As a general guide, single arch treatment usually starts around $4500, and complex treatment starts around $7200. This includes 18-24 months of treatment and three years of follow-up with retainers.

We also offer flexible payment plans to help you afford the smile you want.

Appointments are scheduled according to each patient’s specific needs, but are generally made every 6 to 8 weeks. We may schedule more frequent appointments if more diligent monitoring is needed.

After-school appointments are the most coveted time slots at Ipswich Orthodontics. We try to schedule shorter appointments before and after school as much as possible, but we may need to schedule longer appointments during the day to accommodate as many patients as possible.

No. You can return to school or work the same day as your fitting appointment.

Yes. You can still play sports during treatment, but if you have braces, we recommend using a custom mouthguard to protect your mouth and appliance.

Yes. We recommend continuing with regular six-monthly dental check-ups. This will help to ensure proper oral hygiene throughout your treatment with us.

No! As long as you have healthy teeth and gums, you’re never too old for orthodontic treatment. In fact, a large percentage of our patients at Ipswich Orthodontics are adults.

No, braces shouldn’t hurt. You may feel some discomfort and soreness after fitting and adjustment appointments, but your teeth will get used to the new pressure and appliance within a few days. In the meantime, you can use over-the-counter pain relief as needed.

You can also apply dental wax to your braces to keep them from rubbing against the inside of your mouth.