Specialist Dental Services

Orthodontist Specialists

The importance of braces is no secret. Braces are very familiar to most people, especially during the teenage years.

Dental braces have been around for many years to correct teeth and jaws and help achieve a straight and attractive smile. They are typically used by specialist orthodontists, who have extra post-graduate training, specifically in orthodontic treatments.


Braces can straighten, align, and position teeth. Most people get braces in their early teenage years, but it’s now becoming more common for adults to get braces too. Modern materials have made braces much more comfortable and attractive than in the past. This has contributed to the increase in the popularity of getting braces.

What is an Orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. They use treatments like braces, Invisalign, and retainers to straighten teeth, fix bite issues, and improve overall function and appearance. After completing a five-year dental undergraduate programme, an orthodontist typically practices first as a general dentist, before undertaking further post-graduate specialist studies. After additional full-time study in the field of orthodontics, they graduate with a Masters of Dental Surgery in Orthodontics. 

Orthodontists keep knowledge current through ongoing Continuing Professional Development. Orthodontic specialists can be members of the NZ Association of Orthodontists.

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the specialist field of dentistry focused on the diagnosis and treatment of issues developing from alignment problems with the teeth and jaws. Specialist orthodontists have extra training, specifically in this field.

 

What does an Orthodontist do?

Your specialist orthodontist will recommend the best option for you, after assessing your teeth. Your treatment options vary from braces, to retainers, to Invisalign® treatments and more, for both adults and children.

Braces

Braces are the more traditional device used to straighten your teeth. There's a range of different braces options available.

Fixed braces

These are the more traditional and common types of braces. Small brackets are bonded to the front of the teeth surfaces and a wire is run through them and held in place with a small coloured elastic band. You can have either plastic or metal brackets.

Invisalign®

Invisalign® treatment involves wearing? a series of clear thin aligners, which are a bit like a very thin mouthguard, or tray. Each aligner is worn for two weeks and then the next one in the series is used. Because they are removable, they can be taken out for eating, drinking and playing sports.

Need to know

Appointments

  • Regular appointments are needed every 6 to 8 weeks while you have braces
  • The first consultation visit will include exams, x-rays, photographs and potentially moulds
  • The next visit is where your braces are glued onto your teeth surfaces
  • Once your braces are on, the wires will be adjusted every 6 to 8 weeks to make sure your teeth are moving into the correct position
  • Once your braces have done their job they are removed
  • You will likely continue to have regular appointments after the removal of your braces to check your progress
  • Additional appointments may be needed if you have problems with your braces

How long it takes

The total length of time braces are on for depends on the person. On average braces will be on for 2 years, in some cases this will be shorter or longer.

  • How long you have braces on for depends on your teeth and situation
  • On average braces will be on for 2 years, although in some cases this can be shorter or longer
  • The consultation visit will usually take around 60 minutes
  • Getting your braces will usually take around 60 minutes
  • The regular 6 to 8 week appointments usually take around 15 to 30 minutes
  • Removal of your braces will usually take at least 60 minutes

You may be asked about

  • Your dental history and medical history
  • Your oral health care routine

Before your appointment

  • No special preparation needed

After your appointment

  • You will need to follow the home care routine recommended by your orthodontist specialist
  • After your braces are removed, you will need to use the retainer or removable plate custom-made for you 

Quick tip

Follow the care instructions provided by your orthodontist specialist. Try to avoid overly hard to sticky foods so they don't get stuck in your braces.

Enquire now

Have questions?

A dentist is a general oral health care provider who diagnoses, treats, and manages your overall oral health. This includes treatments such as fillings, crowns, and preventive care.

An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed additional specialised training in the alignment of teeth and jaws. Orthodontists primarily focus on correcting bite issues, straightening teeth, and fitting braces or clear aligners like Invisalign. All orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists. 

No, orthodontists don’t typically remove wisdom teeth. Wisdom tooth removal is usually done by a general dentist or an oral surgeon, who are trained in tooth extractions and surgical procedures.

No, orthodontists do not perform root canals. Root canals are typically done by general dentists or endodontists, who specialise in treating the inside of the tooth.

The cost of an orthodontist visit varies depending on the type of consultation or treatment needed. A standard consultation appointment typically ranges from $150 to $350. If treatment is needed, such as braces or aligners, total costs can range from $3,000 to $10,000. We recommend checking with your orthodontist for specific pricing and payment options.