Orthodontics
What Is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry dedicated to correcting the position of your teeth and jaws so they function properly and look their best. From traditional braces to discreet clear aligners, modern orthodontics offers a solution for every age and lifestyle.
At Beaches Dental Mona Vale, our specialist orthodontist, Dr Anasstasia Bakopoulou, can incorporate Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs) when beneficial. These tiny, biocompatible titanium pins serve as stable anchor points, making it possible to achieve precise tooth movements, from minor adjustments to repositioning an entire arch. When recommended, TADs can often help achieve your goals more efficiently and precisely than traditional methods alone.
How Does Orthodontic Treatment Work?
Your orthodontic journey begins with a comprehensive consultation and a full set of extra oral and intra oral photographs. We listen carefully to your goals, assess your bite, and design an individualised treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and lifestyle.
Planning & Records
High-resolution photos, digital X-rays and a 3D scan allow us to carefully assess the position of your teeth and jaws, so we can plan the most effective course of treatment.
Appliance Selection
Depending on your needs, we may recommend expansion, fixed braces (traditional, cheek side (buccal) or inside, tongue side (lingual) braces), clear aligners (see our Clear Aligners and Invisalign® pages), or a hybrid approach incorporating TADs for more complex cases.
Active Treatment
For most cases, if you have clear aligners, you’ll switch to a new aligner every 1–2 weeks. For fixed braces, you’ll visit us every 6–8 weeks for adjustments. Where TADs are part of your plan, these small anchor devices are placed quickly and comfortably under local anaesthetic and are removed just as easily once their job is complete.
Retention & Smile Maintenance
When active treatment is complete, a custom made retainer protects your new smile from teeth movement in the future, so you can enjoy long-lasting results.
What Are the Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment?
A well-aligned smile also supports a balanced bite. Even distribution of biting force helps prevent premature tooth wear, reduces strain on jaw joints, and may also reduce headaches in some patients.
Beyond these physical benefits, orthodontics could also boost your confidence, especially if you are a person who tries to hide their teeth when they talk and smile. A healthy, attractive smile can enhance self-esteem in social, academic, and professional settings, and may help you engage more confidently with others.
Is Orthodontic Treatment Right for Me?
If you have crowded teeth, gaps, an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or simply wish your smile looked and felt better, orthodontic treatment may be the ideal solution. Children, teenagers, and adults can all benefit, and age is rarely a barrier thanks to today’s discreet and comfortable options.
During your consultation, we discuss all aspects of your treatment in a supportive, relaxed environment. If you have questions or concerns at any stage, our experienced and caring team is always here to help. Ready to get started? Book your personalised consultation with Dr Anastasia at Beaches Dental Mona Vale today and take the first step towards a healthy, confident new smile.
