Braces
Braces at Melton
Want straighter teeth? At Melton Dental House, our experienced team provides orthodontic treatment including braces and aligners to correct misalignment and improve your oral health.
When Teeth Need Straightening
Crooked, crowded or misaligned teeth can affect your bite, make cleaning difficult, and impact your confidence. At Melton Dental House, orthodontic treatment gradually moves teeth into proper alignment, improving both oral health and smile appearance.
Understanding Orthodontics
Orthodontics uses braces, aligners or other appliances to gradually move teeth into correct positions over months or years. Treatment involves applying controlled pressure to shift teeth through bone, whilst surrounding tissue adapts to new positions.
Traditional fixed braces use metal or ceramic brackets bonded to teeth, connected by wires that are periodically adjusted to guide tooth movement. Clear aligners (like Invisalign) are removable trays changed every 1-2 weeks for gradual repositioning.
Treatment duration varies from several months to 2-3 years depending on misalignment severity, chosen method, and individual response. Retainers are typically required after treatment to prevent teeth shifting back to original positions.
Could Orthodontic Treatment Be Right for You?
At Melton Dental House, we believe every patient deserves individual attention. Orthodontic treatment may be suitable following our comprehensive assessment, though each case requires evaluation of your alignment issues and treatment goals.
Your Orthodontics Journey
Whilst individual needs vary based on misalignment severity and treatment type chosen, here's what you can typically expect:
Your Comprehensive Assessment
Our experienced team examines your teeth and bite, takes X-rays and photographs, discusses your concerns and goals, and determines which orthodontic approach suits your situation. (1 visit, approximately 60-90 minutes)
Treatment Planning
We explain recommended treatment options (braces, aligners or other appliances), discuss expected duration and outcomes, review costs and payment options, and answer questions about the process. (Same or follow-up visit, approximately 45-60 minutes)
Treatment Commencement
For braces, brackets are bonded to teeth and wires inserted; for aligners, impressions are taken for custom tray fabrication and you receive your first sets with instructions. (1-2 visits, approximately 90-120 minutes for braces fitting)
Regular Adjustment Appointments
Every 4-8 weeks, we adjust braces wires or provide new aligner sets, monitor tooth movement progress, address any discomfort or concerns, and ensure treatment proceeds as planned. (Ongoing visits throughout treatment, approximately 20-30 minutes each)
Treatment Completion
Once teeth reach desired positions, braces are removed or aligner treatment concludes, teeth are thoroughly cleaned and polished, and we assess final alignment and bite. (1 visit, approximately 60-90 minutes for braces removal)
Retainer Phase
Custom retainers are fitted to maintain new tooth positions, with instructions for wear schedule (typically full-time initially, then nights only), and ongoing monitoring to prevent relapse. (Initial fitting visit, then periodic check-ups)
Your Comprehensive Assessment
Our experienced team examines your teeth and bite, takes X-rays and photographs, discusses your concerns and goals, and determines which orthodontic approach suits your situation. (1 visit, approximately 60-90 minutes)
Treatment Planning
We explain recommended treatment options (braces, aligners or other appliances), discuss expected duration and outcomes, review costs and payment options, and answer questions about the process. (Same or follow-up visit, approximately 45-60 minutes)
Treatment Commencement
For braces, brackets are bonded to teeth and wires inserted; for aligners, impressions are taken for custom tray fabrication and you receive your first sets with instructions. (1-2 visits, approximately 90-120 minutes for braces fitting)
Regular Adjustment Appointments
Every 4-8 weeks, we adjust braces wires or provide new aligner sets, monitor tooth movement progress, address any discomfort or concerns, and ensure treatment proceeds as planned. (Ongoing visits throughout treatment, approximately 20-30 minutes each)
Treatment Completion
Once teeth reach desired positions, braces are removed or aligner treatment concludes, teeth are thoroughly cleaned and polished, and we assess final alignment and bite. (1 visit, approximately 60-90 minutes for braces removal)
Retainer Phase
Custom retainers are fitted to maintain new tooth positions, with instructions for wear schedule (typically full-time initially, then nights only), and ongoing monitoring to prevent relapse. (Initial fitting visit, then periodic check-ups)
Risks & Recovery
Orthodontic treatment involves extended tooth movement with specific risks and considerations related to oral health maintenance and treatment compliance throughout the process.
Possible risks include:
- Gum irritation, mouth ulcers, or soft tissue trauma from appliances and adjustments
- Increased risk of tooth decay or gum disease if oral hygiene is inadequate during treatment
- Temporary discomfort and dietary restrictions following appliance placement or adjustments
- Root shortening, tooth mobility, or relapse if retention protocols are not followed properly
Recovery considerations:
- Initial discomfort normal for several days following appliance placement or major adjustments
- Soft diet recommended during adjustment periods to minimise discomfort and appliance damage
- Enhanced oral hygiene protocols essential throughout treatment to prevent complications
- Regular professional monitoring required throughout treatment duration to ensure progress and health
Invest in Your Oral Health
Quality dental care is an investment in your long-term health and wellbeing. Download our comprehensive price guide today.
Any questions?
How long does treatment take?
Treatment duration varies significantly based on misalignment severity and chosen method. Simple cases may complete in 6-12 months, whilst moderate issues typically require 18-24 months. Complex cases involving severe crowding or bite correction may take 2-3 years or longer. Your orthodontist provides estimated timeline during planning, though actual duration depends on individual response and compliance.
Will treatment hurt?
Discomfort rather than pain is typical with orthodontics. Braces cause soreness for 2-5 days after fitting and each adjustment as teeth begin moving. Aligners cause pressure and mild discomfort when switching to new trays. Most patients manage discomfort with over-the-counter pain medication and soft foods. Brackets or wires may irritate cheeks and lips initially until mouth tissues adapt.
What happens if I don’t wear my retainer?
Teeth have natural tendency to shift back toward original positions after orthodontic treatment. Without consistent retainer wear, relapse occurs, potentially undoing months or years of treatment. Some shifting may happen quickly (within weeks), whilst other movement occurs gradually over months or years. Retreatment may be necessary if significant relapse occurs, adding time and cost.
Making Your Smile Affordable
We offer flexible payment plans to suit your budget. Get the dental care you need, when you need it.
Ready to Learn More?
The first step is a comprehensive assessment to evaluate your alignment and discuss orthodontic options. Contact our caring Melton team today.
Disclaimer: The material posted is for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Results vary with each patient. Any dental procedure carries risks and benefits. If you have any specific questions about any dental and/or medical matter, you should consult your dentist, physician or other professional healthcare providers.
Medically Reviewed by Dr Terence Cheong
Last Reviewed: June 24, 2026
Patient Awareness Blog
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