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August 30, 2019 - No Comments!

Pros And Cons Of Self Ligating Ceramic Braces

Self ligating ceramic braces are a good option for a wide variety of bite and teeth straightening issues. In fact, they look and fit much like traditional braces. As with any orthodontic treatment option, there are pros and cons to consider before deciding if self ligating braces might be right for you.

Pro: No Elastics

While self ligating ceramic braces look more or less like conventional braces, they don't require any elastics. This is because the brackets are made with a spring-loaded door that consistently applies pressure to the archwire to keep straightening your teeth. Another benefit here is elastics tend to gather more bacteria and thus, plaque buildup. Without those, your teeth are a little easier to keep clean.

Con: Hinges Can Break

The hinges that control the doors on the brackets can occasionally break. This makes it impossible for the doors to shut. You'll need to get this fixed immediately to prevent any setbacks in your treatment plan.

Pro: Ceramic Is Less Noticeable

Ceramic braces are closer in colour to your original teeth. This helps make them less noticeable. However, self ligating ceramic braces still use wires, which are more noticeable. Depending on the type of archwire used, you may be able to use a coloured wire, making your braces more discreet.

Con: Special Care For Cleaning

Both traditional and self ligating braces mean you'll need to spend extra time cleaning your teeth. The brackets and wires make it more difficult to brush and floss. However, once you get used to a care routine, you'll only need a little extra time each day. Just stay on top of regular brushing and flossing to avoid extra plaque buildup and cavities.

Pro: Works In Most Cases

While some orthodontic solutions are only for mild straightening cases, self ligating ceramic braces are designed to work for more complex issues too. This means you're more likely to be a candidate for these, rather than options like Invisalign light. Plus, you still get the benefit of less noticeable braces.

Con: May Cost More

The final cost will vary, but generally, self ligating braces cost slightly more than conventional braces. In most cases, they're still less expensive than other types of braces.

Pro: Fewer Adjustments

Thanks to the way the doors on the brackets work, you may require fewer adjustments. Plus, the adjustments you do need will go faster. Some patients are even able to get their braces off faster, though that will depend on your specific case. This means fewer overall adjustments too.

Self Ligating Ceramic Braces

If you're interested in learning more about self ligating ceramic braces, schedule a consultation at our office today.

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August 23, 2019 - No Comments!

Perth Orthodontic Consultations – feel free to ask questions

A consultation is the ideal way to learn more about braces and alternatives to braces, get your questions answered and decide what's best for you.

Prepare Your Questions

Start thinking about what questions you want to ask. Your orthodontist consultation in Perth isn't just for the orthodontist to tell you what your options are.

It's also the perfect chance to ask any questions you might have about teeth straightening. Some great questions to ask include:

  • What are your experience and background?
  • What options do you offer and why?
  • If there are any options you've researched that they don't offer, ask why.
  • What options are available to me?
  • How long do most treatments last?
  • Will I have to make any lifestyle changes?
  • Will you have to make many adjustments?
  • Will it hurt?
  • Are there alternative treatment options?
  • Will my facial structure change?
  • How will this affect my speech?
  • Will I need to do anything else, such as wear a retainer or headgear?

It's a good idea to do some research before scheduling your consultation so you have some questions prepped. During your consultation, you'll likely find you have other questions as well.

Discover Your Options

Learn more about what options are available. More specifically, learn which options you're a candidate for. Even though an orthodontist might offer Invisalign or lingual braces, your oral issues might require something different.

You'll want to explore multiple options and learn more about each. Even if you have your heart set on a certain type, you might discover there are disadvantages that you don't like.

Ask questions about every option and why your orthodontist believes each would be a good fit. Your orthodontist can show you how each option works using models, images and even before/after photos.

Know The Possible Costs

One thing you're probably highly concerned about is the cost of straightening your teeth. It's hard to just get an estimate online.

Once an orthodontist actually sees you and gets an idea of your oral needs, they can give you a solid estimate for each type of treatment. They'll be able to break down the costs based on the hardware needed, any special equipment used, other procedures that may be needed (such as jaw surgery or tooth removal), regular visits and replacement costs (such as if you lose an aligner or damage your braces).

This is only an estimate. When you go for X-rays or scans, your orthodontist will be able to adjust the estimate based on your exact treatment plan. A good way to get a clearer estimate is by bringing along your dental records.

It's a good idea to carefully compare costs along with how long each treatment takes. A higher-cost treatment that's over faster may work well for you. For tighter budgets, a lower-cost option might stand out.

Learn About Financing Options

Now that you have an idea about the costs, you'll want to know about financing options. Your orthodontist doesn't expect you to pay everything out of pocket from your first official visit. When you're talking about thousands of dollars, it's just unreasonable.

Instead, orthodontists in Perth offer financing options. These can be monthly installments or a set number of payments throughout the plan, such as every quarter or six months.

You can also take the estimated costs to determine if you can pay by credit card or get a loan. This may make it easier for you to finance your braces.

You should also talk with your orthodontist about insurance and how this will affect your out-of-pocket costs. Insurance usually pays a portion of the cost, but this will obviously vary based on your insurance and which treatment plan you want.

Review Your Dental Records

Take along your dental records. If you've already had scans, X-rays or impressions done, take those to your orthodontist consultation. This gives your orthodontist far more insight into your current problems and narrows down your treatment options.

You don't have to take any records, but they do help. You can request these from your dentist and even have them sent over ahead of your appointment.

Learn More About The Orthodontist

A consultation gives you a chance to get to know your orthodontist. Sometimes, even the best orthodontist doesn't quite fit what you want or need for whatever reason.

Get to know more about how they treat patients, their personality and how their staff acts. It's amazing how much insight you can get in just a short consultation.

Get Details About The Process

By this point, you may already know about how each treatment plan works. If not, ask. Discuss the pros and cons. Learn about lifestyle changes and what you may experience. Also, learn about how long the process takes and what to expect during regular visits.

Schedule The Next Step

While you're never under any obligation to proceed, if treatment is required, you can go ahead and schedule the next step. This is where you have scans, X-rays and/or scans done and your treatment plan is fully mapped out.

Depending on the day's appointments, you may be able to go from consultation to official first appointment the same day. This allows you to start your treatment faster.

If you're ready to schedule your consultation, contact our offices today.

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August 16, 2019 - No Comments!

Where To Go For Ceramic Braces In Perth

You're ready for a straighter smile and love the idea of ceramic braces, but what comes next? Now, it's time to figure out where to go for ceramic braces in Perth.

While you have plenty of options, you only want the best possible care and treatment. This means carefully comparing your options to see which orthodontist is the right fit for you.

List All Your Options

Start by listing all your possible options. You can narrow it down based on years of experience. While a brand new orthodontist might be fine, you'll probably prefer someone who has years of experience. Look at all years and not just years in their current practice.

Also, look at which ones offer ceramic braces. Not every orthodontist in Perth does. If you're set on this option, you don't want to waste time at an orthodontist who doesn't specialise in this straightening option.

Look At Reviews

When you're trying to find ceramic braces in Perth, you'll want to check out reviews for all the orthodontists on your list. How do real patients feel about them? How have their treatment plans gone?

Consider Expert Orthodontists

Wouldn't it be nice to have an orthodontist that's highly respected among their peers? Check out details online about each orthodontist. Have their contributed to any medical journals? Do they participate in any special programs?

For instance, both Dr. Chris Wholley and Dr. Shiva Senathirajah of Profile Orthodontics are both highly respected orthodontists who have published research in major publications and journals.

Check Certifications

You only want to work with an orthodontist who is certified. Check their educational background and certifications. If they can't showcase both, they're not a great fit for you.

Schedule A Consultation

The final step is to meet with the orthodontists on your shortlist. Finding ceramic braces in Perth means being ready to ask questions and see how orthodontists respond. Many orthodontists offer free initial consultations. This helps you learn more about your options, how each orthodontist plans to treat you and whether you feel you'll get the care you deserve.

Want to learn more about Profile Orthodontics and our ceramic braces treatment options? Schedule a consultation today!

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August 9, 2019 - No Comments!

Why There Is A Risk To Buying Teeth Aligners Online

You've likely seen at-home alternatives to teeth straightening, such as buying teeth aligners online. They promise lower costs, no office visits and straight teeth quickly and easily.

However, there are some major risks to turning to at-home options. As convenient as these alternatives sound, you might end up paying more and making the situation worse.

You May Not Be A Candidate

Teeth aligners aren't an option for everyone. However, the modeling kit you get with these DIY straightening kits or clubs doesn't take that into account. Severe alignment issues often require traditional braces to correct the problem. You may also need teeth removed or even jaw surgery before straightening anything. No matter what aligners you try, you won't get the results you expect.

Poor Fit Leads To Permanent Issues

What if the aligner doesn't fit quite right? Or, what if you didn't complete the mold kit correctly? Your teeth aligners have to be custom made to fit your treatment plan. If anything is even slightly off, it can lead to permanent damage.

Since you're not being fitted by an orthodontist or going in for regular check-ups, you might not notice the damage until it's too late. Gum issues, tooth loss and loose teeth are all possibilities. Sometimes, the damage is so severe that it can't be repaired.

You Don't See An Orthodontist

Your orthodontist does more than just straighten your teeth or fit you for teeth aligners. They're also there to ensure nothing is going wrong. They also answer questions and guide you throughout the treatment process. With online solutions, customer service isn't always the best and you likely won't be speaking to an orthodontist or dentist.

An orthodontist also checks for issues beyond just crooked teeth. Your jaw's bone structure could be the reason your teeth are out of alignment. Knowing the cause can drastically change your treatment plan.

Shipping Mishaps

You have to change out your teeth aligners regularly to maintain your progress. However, buying your teeth aligners online means you're putting all that progress at risk. Wear the same aligner for too many weeks can reverse your progress or result in damage to your teeth and gums.

Even if a late delivery doesn't cause problems, it's possible to get the wrong aligner. Mixups do happen. Your orthodontist would catch this, but you wouldn't know until it's too late.

While very minor issues might be corrected with online teeth aligners, the risks are high. It's always best for the future of your oral health to go to an orthodontist. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.

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August 2, 2019 - No Comments!

4 Of The Best SureSmile Reviews To Help You Make A Decision

You've probably heard about SureSmile, but how do you know if it's something that might be right for you? The best place to start is by checking out SureSmile reviews.

Even before you visit your orthodontist, read reviews to see what real patients think. You'll quickly see there are quite a few benefits that keep coming up.

1. Less Painful Adjustments

Anyone who has had traditional braces can tell you that there is some discomfort and even pain with every manual adjustment. SureSmile works differently. Thanks to the wires being formed robotically from day one, the fit is already customised to your treatment plan. This means fewer visits and adjustments. You'll still need some adjustments, but much less than traditional braces.

2. Get Them Off Quicker

Even though people love a straighter smile, they don't like the look of braces. Many SureSmile reviews praise the fact that you don't have to wear them as long. Your orthodontist creates a treatment plan after your initial visit. They then upload the plan and have custom braces created for you. The precision-crafted braces fit better and move your teeth into alignment faster. This means months taken off your typical treatment time.

3. Better Straightening

Overall, you get a straighter smile with SureSmile. The precision just can't be matched. A more custom fit allows teeth to move into place more naturally. SureSmile reviews often talk about the incredible final results. While you can get a great smile with conventional braces, it may take longer as more manual adjustments are needed.

4. Easier Planning

Typically, you'd have to go through X-rays and molds for your orthodontist to get a more accurate view of your mouth. Still, it may not be enough to create the perfect treatment plan for you. Patients talk about the easier planning phase with SureSmile. Thanks to SureSmile's advanced 3D imaging, your orthodontist sees more detail about your mouth. It's easier on patients and allows your orthodontist to create a better and more effective treatment plan from the start.

While your orthodontist can answer all your questions about SureSmile, be sure to check out some SureSmile reviews yourself. When you're ready, contact our office to schedule a consultation.