Orthodontics for the teenage years, near Casula & Prestons

Start with the bite, then the teenager. Some tooth movements are more predictable with fixed braces, and aligners need to be worn 20 to 22 hours a day to work. If wearing them that long sounds unlikely, Damon™ braces, in metal or clear, stay on and keep working. An organised teen with a suitable bite is often a good fit for Invisalign®. Our braces vs Invisalign guide covers the trade-offs in more detail.

Each child has their own consultation and their own written quote, and each fee is spread across that child's treatment. Brothers and sisters often start at different times, because each child's teeth set the timing. At the consultation we can map out the likely start for each one, so you can see how the payments would line up.

Well before treatment is likely to start. Orthodontic benefits, where your extras cover includes them, usually come with a waiting period of around 12 months and an annual or lifetime limit. If a younger child may need braces in a few years, check the policy now. The item numbers on your written quote let the fund tell you the exact benefit before you sign anything.

Often, though the teeth decide rather than the birthday. Full braces or aligners usually start once most adult teeth are through, which for many children is between 11 and 13. Some are ready earlier and some later, and a few benefit from a short early phase from age 7. A consultation shows where your child is up to, with no obligation to begin.