Braces in Ashburton

Braces or Invisalign?

Clear aligners suit many people, but they aren’t universally better. Braces are fixed in place, so treatment doesn’t depend on remembering to wear them, and they handle severe crowding, significant bite correction and complex rotations more predictably.

They’re often the right call for younger patients too, where compliance with removable appliances can be inconsistent. At your consultation we’ll set out both options honestly, including which one we’d choose in your situation and why.

What braces can correct

What to expect

1. Consultation and records. Photographs, X-rays and models to plan the movements needed.
2. Fitting. Brackets are bonded to the teeth and connected with a wire. It takes about an hour and doesn’t hurt, though teeth feel tender for a few days afterwards.
3. Adjustments. Regular short visits to change wires and progress the movement.
4. Removal and retention. Braces come off, and a retainer holds the result. Retainers are for life if you want the result to last.

Living with braces

The first week is the hardest. Teeth often ache for a few days after fitting and after each adjustment. Soft food helps, and orthodontic wax can stop brackets rubbing your cheeks.

Food to go easy on

• Hard food such as nuts, hard lollies and ice can snap brackets off.
• Sticky food such as toffee, gum and caramel can bend wires and trap plaque.
• Apples and carrots are fine if cut into small pieces.

Keeping teeth clean

Plaque builds up around brackets quickly. Brush after meals, angling the brush above and below the wire. Small interdental brushes clean under the wire. Poor cleaning can leave white marks on the enamel when the braces come off.

Sport

For contact sport, wear a mouthguard made to fit over braces. See our sports mouthguards page.

Problems between visits

A loose bracket or a wire poking your cheek is common and rarely urgent. Cover the sharp end with wax and call us on (03) 9885 7588. For severe pain, swelling or a mouth injury, see our emergency dental page.

Braces for adults

Adults can have braces too. Gums and bone need to be healthy, so we check these first and may suggest gum treatment before starting. Tooth movement can be slower in adults, and we allow for that in your estimate.

Retainers after braces

A retainer may be a thin wire bonded behind the front teeth, a clear removable retainer, or both. Clean it daily and bring it to check-ups. If it breaks or is lost, call us early, as teeth can start to move within days.

Still deciding? Our clear aligners or braces guide compares the two, and our orthodontics page covers all options. Some complex bite or jaw problems may need a referral, and we will tell you at your consultation.

Cost and health funds

We are a Bupa Members First Platinum, HCF More for Teeth and nib First Choice preferred provider. We accept all health funds, including Medibank, ahm, CBHS and Australian Unity, claimed on the spot with HICAPS.

Common questions

How often will I need appointments?

Usually every few weeks while the braces are on. Adjustment visits are short and involve checking progress and changing wires or elastics. Keeping these visits on schedule helps treatment stay on track.

Can braces damage my teeth?

Braces themselves do not usually harm teeth. The main risk is plaque collecting around the brackets, which can cause white marks, decay or swollen gums. Careful brushing, interdental brushes and fewer sugary drinks all lower this risk.

Can I still have a check-up and clean with braces on?

Yes, and it is a good idea. Braces make some areas harder to clean, so a professional clean helps keep your gums healthy. We can also show you where plaque is building up so you can adjust your brushing.