BRACES
Braces have been used to correct malocclusions (bad bites) for over 100 years. They remain the most common and effective option for straightening teeth and correcting bites. These days, the brackets for braces are much smaller and the wires apply much gentler forces to the teeth, making the whole dental braces process much more comfortable.
We provide braces treatment to people of all ages from Papamoa, Mt Maunganui, Te Puke and Tauranga.
Metal Braces
Most people have metal (stainless steel) brackets and get creative with multi-coloured o-rings. The brackets are bonded to each tooth at the first appointment and remain there until the end of treatment. At the adjustment visits it’s usually just the wires and o-rings that are changed.
Ceramic braces
Ceramic brackets are essentially tooth-coloured and are therefore more aesthetic. They are a great option for the upper front teeth in patients that are self-conscious about having metal braces. They are not suitable for lower teeth due to being more abrasive than metal braces. There is an additional cost for ceramic brackets despite not offering any functional advantage over metal braces. We offer ceramic braces at our Papamoa orthodontist for all Tauranga patients.
Retainers
When braces are removed, retainers are required to hold the teeth in their new and improved position. The first year following orthodontic treatment is the most critical period in terms of retention. At Pāpāmoa Orthodontist in Tauranga we take a “belt and braces” approach, providing you with both fixed and removable retainers.
Orthognathic Surgery
Sometimes the upper and lower jaws just don’t fit together. This is usually because one or both jaws are too big or too small. In this case, we would be unable to achieve an acceptable result with braces alone, and a combined surgical and orthodontic treatment will be recommended. In these situations, we usually prefer to wait until growth is complete (usually early adulthood), however, we would engage and work together with a Tauranga oral and maxillofacial surgeon much earlier to ensure the best possible outcome.