Orthodontics in Ashburton

Braces or clear aligners?

Both work. The right choice depends on what needs correcting, your age, and how disciplined you’ll be about wearing a removable appliance. Fixed braces handle complex cases predictably; Invisalign is discreet and removable but only works if it’s worn 20–22 hours a day. We’ll tell you honestly which we’d choose for you.

Orthodontic options

Timing matters

For children, an orthodontic check around age seven to nine catches jaw growth problems — crossbites, narrow arches, severe crowding — while growth can still be guided, sometimes with a short early phase that reduces later treatment. For most, the main phase happens in the early teens once adult teeth are through. For adults there’s no upper age limit; what matters is healthy gums and bone.

Whatever the age, the first step is the same: assessment with photographs and X-rays, a frank discussion of what’s cosmetic versus what affects function, and a written plan with realistic timeframes and costs. Sometimes the honest answer is that treatment isn’t needed.

Orthodontics — common questions

Signs an orthodontic check may help

• teeth that overlap, twist or sit behind others
• gaps that are getting wider
• teeth that wear unevenly, or a jaw that clicks or aches
• trouble biting into food or cleaning between crowded teeth
• in children: baby teeth lost very early or late, or thumb sucking past the early school years

Bite checks for children

We check how your child’s teeth and jaws are developing at each regular check-up (see our children’s dentist page). If we notice a crossbite, crowding or a habit affecting the teeth, we tell you whether to act now or watch it.

Check-ups can be bulk billed, with no out-of-pocket for eligible children under the CDBS. Orthodontic treatment itself is not part of the scheme. Our CDBS guide explains what is included.

Your options at a glance

• Fixed braces: brackets and wires that stay on until treatment ends.
• Invisalign: clear removable aligners. Invisalign reviews here are done by Dr Mee Kim and Dr Mariana Habil.
• Retainers: worn after any treatment to hold the result.

For a side-by-side comparison, see clear aligners or braces.

Retainers explained

Teeth keep moving slowly throughout life. A bonded retainer is a thin wire fixed behind the front teeth. A removable retainer is a clear tray worn at night. Some people have both. Removable retainers wear out, so plan to replace them from time to time.

Straightening before other treatment

Moving teeth first can make other work simpler. Aligning crowded front teeth may mean thinner veneers, or none. Adjusting a space can make room for an implant or bridge. Large differences in jaw size or position may need a referral, and we will arrange it if so.

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.

More questions about orthodontic treatment

Are crooked teeth only a cosmetic problem?

Not always. Crowded teeth can be harder to clean, which may raise the risk of decay and gum disease. A bite that does not meet evenly can wear teeth or strain the jaw. Sometimes it really is appearance only, and we will say so.

What happens if I stop wearing my retainer?

Your teeth may slowly move back towards where they started, within weeks or over years. If your retainer no longer fits, call us before the teeth move further. Small relapse can sometimes be corrected with a new retainer or short aligner course.

Will my child definitely need treatment if we spot a problem early?

No. Many issues seen at a young age are simply watched at check-ups. Some settle as adult teeth come through. Others benefit from a short early phase of treatment. We will explain whether acting now is likely to help.

Do I need a referral for an orthodontic assessment?

No. You can book online or by phone. The assessment includes an exam, photos and X-rays, then a plan. If your case needs care we do not provide, such as major jaw correction, we will explain why and arrange a referral.