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Aligners now handle a great deal, but not everything. Fixed braces remain more predictable for certain movements — significant rotations, substantial bite correction, and cases involving extractions. Choosing the appliance to suit the case is more useful than fitting the case to the appliance.
Braces are fixed appliances consisting of brackets bonded to each tooth and a wire running between them. The wire applies continuous light force, and adjusting it over the course of treatment moves the teeth into planned positions.
Because braces are fixed, they work continuously without depending on the patient remembering to wear them. That is their principal advantage over aligners for complex cases and for patients who would find a wear-time requirement difficult. The trade-offs are visibility, more demanding cleaning, and some restrictions on hard and sticky foods.
Braces suit cases where the movements required are more predictably achieved with fixed appliances, or where compliance with removable aligners is a genuine concern.
Fixed treatment runs over regular adjustment appointments rather than tray changes at home.
We examine the teeth, bite, gums and jaw function and take the X-rays and photographs needed to plan. Active decay or gum disease is treated before orthodontics begins.
We establish why the teeth sit where they do, since that determines whether the correction will hold. You receive a written plan covering appliance, duration, cost and what is required of you.
Brackets are bonded to the teeth and the first wire fitted. Expect tenderness for several days as the teeth begin to move.
You attend at intervals for the wire to be adjusted or changed. Consistency at this stage is what keeps treatment on schedule.
Final detailing refines the individual tooth positions before the appliance is removed and the teeth polished.
Retainers are fitted immediately, whether removable, bonded or both. Retention is part of treatment, not an optional extra.
Orthodontic treatment is safe and well established but is an active biological process with real risks.
Possible Risks:
Recovery and Aftercare:
See stunning dental enhancements crafted through our bespoke treatments.
Warning: The ‘before’ and ‘after’ images shown are of a real patient of our clinic. These images are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the results that all patients can expect. Results vary depending on individual circumstances, and all surgical and cosmetic procedures carry risks. The after image was taken approximately 2-4 weeks after treatment was completed.
Most comprehensive cases run one to two years, though simpler cases finish sooner. Your assessment will give a projected duration based on the movements required.
Attendance for adjustments and avoiding breakages both affect the timeline.
It depends on the case rather than preference. Aligners handle a wide range of cases well and are more discreet; braces are more predictable for complex movements and do not depend on wear time.
We will tell you honestly which category your case falls into.
There is tenderness for several days after fitting and after each adjustment, which most people manage with over-the-counter pain relief and a soft diet.
Cheek and lip ulceration during the first weeks is common and settles as the tissues adapt. Orthodontic wax helps.
Yes. Adults now make up a substantial proportion of orthodontic patients. Treatment can take longer and often involves working around existing restorations, recession or missing teeth.
None of that rules treatment out, but it does need proper assessment first.
Choosing Civic Gentle Dental Care standard means choosing a practice built on extensive clinical experience and a deep commitment to patient care.
Our dedicated team provides fully personalised treatment plans, combining advanced modern techniques with our specialised in-house ceramic laboratory. We focus on delivering optimal aesthetic and functional outcomes for your smile, while ensuring your entire experience is gentle, transparent, and completely professional.
We offer interest-free payment plans to help make your treatment more manageable.
*Subject to finance approval, fees and charged
Looking to explore more Orthodontic Dentistry or oral health options?
You may also be interested in:
Clear removable aligners, where the case suits them.
Sometimes part of an orthodontic plan.
Monitoring development and eruption in younger patients.
Considering orthodontic treatment?
Book an assessment at Civic Gentle Dental Care in Canberra City to find out which approach suits your case.
