Orthodontics & Braces in Wantirna
Straighter Teeth, Better Bite, Lasting Confidence
Orthodontic treatment does more than improve the appearance of your smile. Correctly aligned teeth are easier to clean, place less strain on the jaw joints, wear more evenly over time, and contribute to long-term oral health. At Eastern Dental Group in Wantirna South, we provide comprehensive orthodontic treatment for children, teenagers, and adults, including traditional metal braces and clear Invisalign aligners, tailored to each patient’s clinical needs and lifestyle.
Call us to book your orthodontic consultation.
What Is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that diagnoses, prevents, and corrects misaligned teeth and jaws. Using carefully controlled forces applied through braces, aligners, or other appliances, orthodontic treatment moves teeth gradually into their correct positions over a period of months to years. In some cases, orthodontic treatment also addresses bite irregularities that, if left untreated, can lead to uneven tooth wear, jaw pain, and difficulty chewing.
Orthodontic treatment is not purely cosmetic. A properly aligned bite distributes chewing forces evenly across all teeth, reduces the risk of fracture and excessive wear, and makes maintaining good oral hygiene significantly easier, crowded or overlapping teeth are notoriously difficult to clean and are at higher risk of decay and gum disease.
What Conditions Does Orthodontic Treatment Address?
Eastern Dental Group provides orthodontic treatment for a wide range of alignment and bite concerns, including:
Crowded teeth.
When there is insufficient space in the jaw for all the teeth to sit correctly, they become overlapping, rotated, or displaced. Crowding is one of the most common reasons patients seek orthodontic treatment and is highly effectively addressed with braces.
Gaps and spacing.
Gaps between teeth, whether a single diastema between the front teeth or generalised spacing throughout the arch, can be closed with orthodontic treatment to create a more uniform smile and reduce areas where food and bacteria accumulate.
Overbite.
An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth bite significantly over the lower front teeth vertically. A deep overbite can cause wear on the lower teeth and discomfort in the jaw joint.
Underbite.
An underbite occurs when the lower teeth protrude in front of the upper teeth when biting. Left untreated, underbites can cause jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and uneven tooth wear.
Crossbite.
A crossbite occurs when one or more upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth rather than outside them. Crossbites can cause asymmetric jaw growth, gum recession, and excessive wear if not corrected.
Protruding teeth.
Upper front teeth that protrude significantly, sometimes called buck teeth, are more vulnerable to trauma and chipping, and are commonly addressed with orthodontic treatment.
Braces vs. Invisalign — Which Is Right for You?
Eastern Dental Group offers both traditional metal braces and Invisalign clear aligners. Both are effective orthodontic treatments, and the most appropriate choice depends on the nature of your case, your lifestyle, your age, and your personal preference. Here is an honest comparison.
Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces consist of stainless steel brackets bonded directly to the teeth, connected by an archwire that applies continuous pressure to move the teeth into alignment. Adjustment appointments every four to eight weeks allow the orthodontist to modify the wire tension and direction of force as treatment progresses.
Braces offer the highest degree of mechanical control over tooth movement, making them the preferred choice for complex cases involving significant crowding, severe bite correction, impacted teeth, or cases requiring tooth extraction as part of treatment. They are also the most cost-effective orthodontic option and are particularly reliable for younger patients where compliance with a removable device may be a concern.
The primary drawback of braces is their visibility and the dietary restrictions they impose, hard, sticky, or chewy foods can damage brackets and wires and must be avoided throughout treatment.
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Invisalign uses a series of custom-made clear plastic aligners that are virtually invisible when worn, making them the preferred choice for adults and self-conscious teenagers who want to straighten their teeth discreetly. The aligners are fully removable for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, eliminating the dietary restrictions and oral hygiene challenges associated with fixed braces.
Invisalign is effective for a wide range of mild to moderate orthodontic cases and has expanded significantly in its clinical capability in recent years. For very complex cases, however, traditional braces may still offer more predictable control. Your dentist will advise honestly on which system is the better fit for your clinical situation.
What to Expect During Orthodontic Treatment
Consultation and records.
Your dentist carries out a full clinical examination and takes digital X-rays and photographs to assess the alignment of your teeth, the development of the roots, and the position of the jaws. A treatment plan, timeline, and fee estimate are discussed at this appointment.
Pre-orthodontic care.
Before braces or aligners are fitted, it is important that teeth are free from active decay and gums are in good health. A check-up and clean is recommended before orthodontic treatment begins, and any necessary preventative or restorative treatment will be completed first. Patients with a history of gum disease will be assessed carefully, as orthodontic forces on teeth with compromised bone support require careful management.
Fitting.
For braces, brackets are bonded to the teeth and the initial archwire is placed at the fitting appointment. For Invisalign, the first sets of aligners are provided along with instructions for wear and care. Fitting appointments typically take 60 to 90 minutes.
Active treatment.
For braces patients, adjustment appointments every four to eight weeks allow the dentist to progress the wire and monitor tooth movement. Regular check-up and clean appointments during orthodontic treatment are important for maintaining gum health and cleaning around brackets and wires. For Invisalign patients, progress check appointments are scheduled periodically to ensure treatment is tracking correctly.
Debond and retention.
When the teeth have reached their final positions, braces are removed and the teeth are polished. Retainers are then fitted immediately, this step is non-negotiable. Without retainers, teeth will begin shifting back toward their original positions within weeks. Retainers may be removable, worn nightly, or fixed behind the teeth. Eastern Dental Group will recommend the most appropriate retention strategy for your case and emphasises the importance of long-term retainer wear.
Orthodontics and Cosmetic Treatment
Many patients complete orthodontic treatment and then consider further cosmetic refinement. The most common sequence is to finalise tooth alignment first, then proceed with teeth whitening once the braces or aligners are off and the teeth have settled into their retainer phase. If dental veneers or crowns are part of the long-term plan, completing orthodontic treatment first ensures the restorations are placed on correctly positioned teeth, a far better outcome than attempting to camouflage a bite or alignment problem with cosmetic dentistry alone.
Your dentist at Eastern Dental Group can help you plan a sequenced treatment pathway that accounts for all your goals from the outset, so nothing needs to be undone or redone later.
Orthodontics for Children, Teenagers, and Adults
Children
The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic assessment by age seven or eight, when the first permanent molars and incisors have erupted and any developing bite or alignment issues can be identified. Early assessment does not always mean early treatment — in many cases, monitoring is recommended until the permanent teeth have fully erupted before active treatment begins. In some situations, however, early intervention can simplify or shorten later treatment significantly. Eastern Dental Group offers orthodontic assessments for children as young patients develop.
Teenagers
Adolescence is the most common time for orthodontic treatment to begin, once most or all of the permanent teeth have erupted. Both metal braces and Invisalign Teen are suitable for teenagers, and the choice between them depends on the clinical case, the patient’s maturity, and family preference. Eastern Dental Group provides a straightforward, honest assessment of both options so that families can make an informed decision.
Adults
There is no upper age limit for orthodontic treatment. Provided the teeth and gums are healthy, adults can achieve excellent results with both braces and Invisalign. Adult patients frequently choose Invisalign for its discreet appearance in professional and social settings, though braces remain the better option for more complex adult cases. Eastern Dental Group sees a significant number of adult orthodontic patients and understands the particular priorities of treating teeth in a fully mature dentition.
Health Insurance
Many private health insurance policies with orthodontic extras provide a rebate toward orthodontic treatment, subject to lifetime orthodontic limits, waiting periods, and your level of cover. The benefit is typically a fixed lifetime amount rather than a percentage per year, so it is worth checking your policy details before committing to treatment. Eastern Dental Group welcomes patients with any health fund and processes claims on the spot via HICAPS. The practice does not participate in preferred provider schemes, ensuring all recommendations are made in your clinical interest. Call us before your consultation to understand your entitlements.
Serving Patients Across Wantirna and the Knox Area
Eastern Dental Group is located at 169 Stud Road, Wantirna South VIC 3152, and provides orthodontic treatment to patients from Wantirna, Knoxfield, Scoresby, Bayswater, Boronia, and surrounding eastern suburbs. We are open Monday to Friday with late availability on Tuesdays until 7:30 PM.
Book your orthodontic consultation online or call (03) 9887 0822.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get braces in Wantirna?
Eastern Dental Group offers orthodontic treatment including braces and Invisalign aligners in Wantirna South, located at 169 Stud Road, VIC 3152. The practice services patients from Wantirna, Knoxfield, Scoresby, Bayswater, Boronia, and surrounding suburbs in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs. Book a consultation online or call (03) 9887 0822.
What is orthodontics and what does it treat?
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry focused on diagnosing and correcting misaligned teeth and jaw irregularities. Orthodontic treatment can address issues including crowded or crooked teeth, gaps between teeth, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. At Eastern Dental Group in Wantirna, treatment options include traditional braces and clear Invisalign aligners, tailored to each patient’s specific needs.
What types of braces are available in Wantirna?
Eastern Dental Group offers a range of orthodontic options including traditional metal braces and clear Invisalign aligners. Metal braces use brackets and wires to apply consistent pressure to move teeth into alignment and are suitable for a wide range of orthodontic conditions. Invisalign uses a series of custom-made clear removable aligners as a more discreet alternative. Your dentist will recommend the most appropriate option based on your dental needs and lifestyle during your consultation.
Are braces suitable for adults or just children?
Orthodontic treatment with braces is suitable for both adults and children. There is no upper age limit for braces — provided the teeth and gums are healthy, adults can achieve excellent results. Many adults in Wantirna choose orthodontic treatment to correct issues they did not address in childhood or to improve their smile later in life. Eastern Dental Group provides personalised orthodontic care for patients of all ages.
At what age should children first see an orthodontist?
Most orthodontists recommend an initial assessment around age seven, when enough permanent teeth have erupted to identify any developing alignment or bite issues. Early assessment does not always mean early treatment, but it allows the orthodontist to monitor development and plan treatment at the most effective time. Eastern Dental Group offers orthodontic consultations for children as well as teenagers and adults in Wantirna.
How long does orthodontic treatment with braces take?
The duration of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case and the type of braces used. On average, treatment with traditional metal braces takes between 18 months and three years. Milder cases may be completed more quickly, while more complex corrections involving significant bite or jaw issues may take longer. Your dentist at Eastern Dental Group will provide a personalised treatment timeline at your initial consultation.
Do braces hurt?
It is common to experience some soreness or pressure in the days following the fitting of braces or after each adjustment appointment, as the teeth are being actively moved. This discomfort is usually mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. Metal brackets and wires may occasionally cause minor irritation to the cheeks or lips, particularly in the early stages of treatment. The team at Eastern Dental Group will guide you through what to expect and how to manage any discomfort throughout your treatment.
How much do braces cost in Wantirna?
The cost of orthodontic treatment in Wantirna depends on the type of braces selected, the complexity of the case, and the estimated treatment duration. Traditional metal braces are generally the most cost-effective orthodontic option, while Invisalign may involve a higher investment. Eastern Dental Group provides personalised treatment plans with transparent fee discussions. Contact the practice on (03) 9887 0822 or book a consultation online at easterndentalgroup.com.au for pricing information.
Can private health insurance help cover the cost of braces in Australia?
Many private health insurance policies with major dental or orthodontic extras cover a portion of the cost of braces, subject to annual limits, waiting periods, and your level of cover. The extent of the rebate varies considerably between funds and policies. Eastern Dental Group welcomes patients with any health fund and will assist with claiming where possible. It is recommended to check your specific policy details before commencing treatment.
What is the difference between braces and Invisalign?
Traditional braces use metal brackets bonded to the teeth and connected by wires, providing continuous and precise control over tooth movement — making them particularly effective for complex orthodontic cases. Invisalign uses a series of custom-made clear removable aligners that are virtually invisible and can be taken out for eating and cleaning. Braces are generally recommended for more complex corrections, while Invisalign suits mild to moderate misalignment and patients who prefer a discreet option. Eastern Dental Group offers both and will advise which is most appropriate for your situation.
Do I need a retainer after braces?
Yes. Wearing a retainer after orthodontic treatment is essential to prevent teeth from gradually shifting back toward their original position — a process known as relapse. Retainers may be removable or fixed behind the teeth depending on the patient’s needs and the orthodontist’s recommendation. Eastern Dental Group includes guidance on retention as part of the orthodontic treatment process to help patients maintain their results long term.
How do I care for my teeth while wearing braces?
Good oral hygiene is especially important during orthodontic treatment as brackets and wires can trap food and plaque. Patients with braces should brush after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss daily using orthodontic floss threaders or a water flosser, and avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage brackets or wires. Regular check-up and clean appointments at Eastern Dental Group are important throughout treatment to maintain gum and tooth health.
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