Mon–Fri 8am–5pmSaturday By appointment onlySunday Closed
Call (02) 4216 99117/9-25 Captain Cook Dr, Barrack Heights NSW 2528Traditional Braces
Traditional braces use brackets and wires fixed to the teeth to move them over time. A dentist can explain how they work and when they are used.
A $50 refundable deposit is required to claim a consultation. Treatment suitability and fees are explained after assessment.
Traditional Braces
If your teeth are crowded or spaced, or your bite does not meet as expected, braces may be an option. Fixed brackets and wires apply controlled forces to move teeth over time. An assessment helps establish which appliance suits your teeth and bite. Read more about orthodontics in Shellharbour.
Metal braces attach to the front of teeth. Ceramic brackets are tooth coloured, while lingual braces attach behind the teeth. Availability and suitability vary. Clear aligners are a separate option, covered in our invisalign information. We can explain the realistic options for your mouth.
The active treatment period and adjustment schedule depend on your teeth and planned movements. Ask for an individual estimate and how often to attend reviews. Retainers help hold the result afterwards and may be needed long term.
Teeth can move after braces are removed. A fixed or removable retainer helps hold their position. Follow your prescribed wear and cleaning instructions, attend reviews and contact the team if a retainer loosens, breaks or is lost.
Mild soreness can occur after braces are fitted or adjusted. Soft foods and orthodontic wax may help. Ask your dentist or pharmacist about suitable pain relief.
Contact your treating dental team promptly for severe or ongoing pain, a sharp wire or a loose bracket.
For related care advice, see our dental check-up and clean and gum disease treatment pages.
Ask who will plan and review your braces treatment and whether specialist orthodontic assessment is recommended. Some general dentists provide orthodontic care, while orthodontists have additional specialist training. We can explain the role of each clinician in your plan. Our tooth coloured fillings information covers repairs that may be needed first.
Children, teenagers and adults can ask about assessment. Suitability depends on dental development, oral health and the planned correction. Medicare and the Child Dental Benefits Schedule do not cover orthodontic work. Ask your health fund about your policy and see our questions about dental fees and patient offers and terms for clinic information.
This page is general information, so call (02) 4216 9911 to ask whether braces suit you. To book, use the Book An Appointment button or call (02) 4216 9911. Ask for the plan, the estimated timeline and the fees in writing, and you can take time to decide or compare braces with aligners. If you would prefer a less visible option, read our invisalign information, and return to orthodontics in Shellharbour for the other orthodontic options.
Braces are one of several orthodontic options. These are common starting points.
Ask for the answers in writing so that you can think them over at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
These general answers can help you prepare questions for an individual conversation.
Traditional braces in Shellharbour are an option to discuss when you want advice about tooth alignment or your bite. Brackets and connecting wires stay attached to the teeth during treatment. You do not remove them for meals, so it is worth understanding the daily routine before deciding on an appliance.
Related information: Invisalign information, orthodontics page.
Related Care
Call or book online and say what you would like help with. Ask what your visit includes and what it costs. At the visit, discuss your concerns with the dentist; you can review any proposed treatment and its costs before deciding.
