The Ortho Practice Corporate Profile

does your smile reflect the

real you?

I used to have a gap between my two front teeth which was unsightly and annoying. Listening to a radio program on the ABC about Invisalign® I thought perhaps this would fix my gap.

After talking to Theo Baisi it seemed a viable option.

The plusses were there were no bands involved... it worked by moving only those teeth that needed to be moved and so would not interfere with the bridge in my mouth.

All my life I have been dealing with food stuck in between my overlapping front teeth and while the last two children were in treatment I decided to have some work done on my teeth.

So off I went. It has proved a great success – the remodelled teeth are, if anything, better than expected.

Dr Baisi recommended that I try the Invisalign® system and after 30 weeks my teeth are straight for the first time in my life.

RUTH M, SYDNEY

I have found Theo and his staff an absolute pleasure to deal with during my treatment as have all the children.

I would recommend the ortho practice without a shadow of doubt.

ANDREW K, SYDNEY

new are you

to orthodontics?

contact us IGH

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level 1 822 anzac parade maroubra nsw 2035 SYDNEY CBD

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theo baisi pty ltd abn 15 073 360 728

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info@orthopractice.com.au www.orthopractice.com.au

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t 02 9221 2181 f 02 9232 7132

t 02 9344 7081 f 02 9344 6029

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ELIZ ABETH

park house level 10 187 macquarie street sydney nsw 2000

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sydney cbd

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welcome to the ortho practice

BOYCE M A RO U

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B R A RD

MAROUBRA

24 /25

Exploring the world of orthodontics can be such an exciting time because results can transform your smile…

and your smile lasts a lifetime!

Starting orthodontic treatment can be confusing, as treatment choices vary and the results of those decisions last a long time.

You need not worry; the ortho practice has been providing patients, just like you, information in plain English for over 20 years. You’ll learn everything you need to know BEFORE you make your final decision and have fun learning too.

It is our commitment at the ortho practice to: ‘Do all we can to achieve the best possible treatment outcomes for all, by providing a safe, friendly and professional environment for our patients and their families, encouraging practical advice and ‘common sense’ communication, and exceptional care and treatment.’

We back this with a commitment to ongoing listening, learning and teaching.

/01

Orthodontics can be described as: The management of developing teeth and jaws throughout the growth and development of a child through adolescence and later adult years.

what is orthodontics?

t

?

what’s the right for orthodontics?

age

Orthodontic problems can be treated at any time.

However, age can play a significant role in the outcomes of many problems. Age can affect the cost, complexity, duration and type of treatment necessary to achieve expected outcomes.

There are FOUR milestones for ‘best result’ orthodontics.

EARLY EXAMINATION the ortho practice strongly recommends an early examination at around 7-8 years of age. Early examination can allow the ortho practice to detect and evaluate any potential tooth development and jaw growth problems and plan treatment for the future. At the same time during those transition years from baby teeth to adult teeth, we can ensure that development continues at the right time, and intervene where necessary.

EARLY TREATMENT age 7-11 years In some cases, early or ‘interceptive’ treatment might be suggested to prevent more serious problems developing later. Treatment at this time may help the development of teeth, jaws and bite during the period where a mix of permanent (adult) and primary (baby) teeth are present.

This is to allow the teeth and jaws to grow in an environment free of functional interferences, such as habits and unusual bites, as well as giving the developing permanent teeth as much room as practical to emerge successfully.

Orthodontics, also known as ‘orthodontics and dentofacial orthopaedics’ is the branch of dentistry dedicated to the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of problems in alignment of the teeth and jaws. The technical term for these problems is ‘malocclusion’, which from the Latin literally means bad bite (mal = bad; occlusion = bite).

Good orthodontics uses a specialised understanding of growth and development of the teeth and jaws, and applies this knowledge to individual patients.

Everyone grows at different rates and into different sizes and shapes. It is the balancing of all variables that separates great orthodontists from the rest.

At the ortho practice we focus on recommending treatment only when it is of maximum benefit.

This is particularly true in younger patients, so we can work with natural growth as much as possible.

This focus is backed by over 20 years of clinical experience and observation, as well as a commitment to continued teaching and learning.

Early treatment may achieve results that are more difficult to obtain when the face and jaws have stopped growing.

ADOLESCENT TREATMENT age 12-19 years This is the most common time for comprehensive or full treatment primarily involving the use of ‘braces’ and/or functional appliances. We use this amazing time of growth and change, when all permanent teeth have emerged, to begin creating the adult bite and ‘best possible’ smile.

ADULT TREATMENT age 20 years and above It’s never too late to make a dramatic difference! Braces amongst adults are becoming far more commonplace and accepted, even in patients over 50 years of age.

Also, some jaw problems can continue until all growth ceases and can only be dealt with in the adult years. the ortho practice can then address any imbalances or compensate in the best possible way.

Some severe situations cannot always be corrected with braces alone. In such cases, orthodontic treatment combined with jaw surgery may achieve the dramatic improvements desired.

02 /03

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We were recommended to the ortho practice because they care, take the time and make us feel welcome. They are accommodating with appointments and help keep us organised and our children’s treatment has been excellent.

HEATHER McD, WOLLONGONG

first visit

Your first visit to the ortho practice is an exciting one, because together we explore your mouth, teeth, face AND your thoughts to assess what we might achieve.

It is a time when you MUST ask questions, no matter how silly you think they might sound. And don’t worry, there are no drills or needles to cause any pain!

your individual

treatment plan

After your first consultation, you will be provided with two assessments:

the ortho practice philosophy follows a case-by-case approach for all ages with your treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This may mean monitoring and waiting for teeth, early intervention, or later treatment when the permanent teeth have emerged.

Assessment 1: The first is a verbal assessment of your options at the end of the consultation. You’ll be invited to make another appointment, if treatment is required.

All unique patient features are assessed with expected future dental and facial growth changes in mind. We also communicate expected growth and change back to parents where appropriate.

Assessment 2: The second is a detailed written report, sent to you and your dentist within 10 working days and includes your ‘next steps’ letter and schedule of your proposed investment.

04 /05

Diagnosis and final treatment plans are derived from a variety of sources. Not all are necessary for every patient and may include: • Photographs Intra Oral and Extra Oral – Photographs of the teeth and facial structures used as an initial reference point from which to diagnose problems and compare treatment changes. Not the most flattering views but a great tool to show change.

• Radiographs – Digital X-ray images of the teeth and jaws. Digital X-rays allow enhanced image quality and a decreased exposure to radiation.

• Frontal X-rays and Lateral X-rays – To gain an accurate view of the symmetry of the face from the front as well as an accurate side view of the jaws to assess where any discrepancies lie.

• Panoramic X-rays – An ‘all the way round’ view of the teeth and their relationship to one another. It’s an image that’s been flattened out much like a world map is a flattened globe.

• Dental Casts – Otherwise known as ‘study models’ are much like plaster casts of your mouth, the material sets very quickly so patients spend as little time in the chair as possible.

By the end of your first visit, you’ll feel confident the ortho practice is your best option. Hopefully, you will be as excited as we will be to begin the ‘journey of transformation’ to last your lifetime.

INTRA ORAL AND EXTRA ORAL PHOTOGRAPHS

choosing the right

treatment

Successful, long lasting smiles depend on the combined input of FOUR team members.

Your treatment plan is a team effort and vital to the most successful outcome possible.

YOU need to communicate what you are expecting and understand the importance of regular visits throughout your treatment.

YOUR FAMILY needs to support you to help make important decisions and guide you through treatment.

YOUR DENTIST needs to be involved and informed of progress and ongoing maintenance.

YOUR ORTHO PRACTICE SPECIALIST needs to be aware of all information and work with everyone during the treatment process to ensure YOU are cared for and looked after at all times.

LATERAL CEPHALOMETRIC X-RAY

When it comes to successful treatment and achieving the results you want, you’ll be very glad to have the ortho practice on your team.

PANORAMIC X-RAY

06 /07

As an adult having been through orthodontic treatment and jaw surgery, a sense of security and care was important to me. At the ortho practice I was kept informed, looked after and cared for every step of the way.

It has changed my life and I can only thank everyone at the ortho practice for taking me through my treatment with the utmost professional care and concern.

our CRAIG K, SYDNEY

relationship + communication

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WITH YOU AS A PATIENT You will receive a personalised and detailed treatment plan and summary of the investment required and payment options.

Once the decision is made to undertake treatment, the ortho practice will remind you of important appointments, and can help with ongoing concerns and issues.

Young patients are ALL treated as people, not kids.

Their concerns, issues, comfort and appeal are all VERY important to us we were young once too, and many of our staff still are! This sets the ortho practice apart from many others.

WITH YOU AS A PARENT Making a decision to invest in orthodontics is very worthwhile and needn’t be stressful. the ortho practice warmly welcomes parents to attend any and all appointments, alongside young patients, to COMPLETELY understand the process, the likely results and any procedures to be followed.

Questions are always welcomed, suggestions are taken on board and smiles are invited.

WITH YOUR DENTIST A full and detailed report is provided to your dentist after your initial consultation, with updates throughout treatment, as necessary. This is to ensure your dentist is kept up to date and can organise any work necessary, for your optimal dental health.

appointments +

scheduling

the ortho practice operates on a strict set of principles for appointment scheduling, designed to keep you informed and appointments running on time.

The system is supported by centralised databases and software, so you can always call to alter your appointments. It also means that ANY of our fantastic team can help you at ANY time, as your records are only a click away. This makes treatment VERY flexible for you.

We also tend to book similar appointments for patients together, so there is less risk of other patients impacting on your valuable time. For example, all 10-15 minute short appointments are typically grouped together in early mornings and afternoons, just before and after school hours. Longer consultations and appointments, such as ‘braces-on’ appointments, are usually done during the middle of the day or in the early evening.

This all helps minimise interfering with school activities.

If you could work with us on this system you will help us to keep everyone ‘smiling’, and that’s exactly why we are here!

08 /09

I cannot recommend the ortho practice highly enough.

During the 18 months that I had braces, I knew I was receiving the highest quality orthodontic treatment. I also really appreciated how friendly and helpful the staff were and how modern and relaxing the surgery was.

NIKOLINA B, LONDON

why 12 great reasons to choose the ortho practice 1 6 7 2 8 3 9 10 4 11 5 12 Over half of new patients are referred by other smiling patients of the ortho practice.

(In other words, our patients are REALLY happy with their results!).

the ortho practice team of orthodontists have collectively taught most of the undergraduate dentists and post-graduate orthodontists at the University of Sydney over the past 16 years!

Dentists often refer patients to the ortho practice because of our reputation for patient care and communication.

All your treatment options are presented and explained IN FULL by a qualified orthodontist, who is also a full member of the Australian Society of Orthodontics, until you FULLY understand, no matter how long it takes.

In more complicated cases the whole team will assess your individual treatment before making a final proposal. You benefit from having access to a host of specialists.

the ortho practice has two convenient locations and is growing.

the ortho practice operates on linked databases, so patients’ records are accessible by staff anywhere, anytime. the ortho practice payment plans are some of the most flexible in the profession. We understand families need to budget for treatment. the ortho practice has full x-ray and professional digital imaging services readily accessible.

You and your dentist receive comprehensive, detailed reports about your orthodontic diagnosis and treatment all the way through the treatment. the ortho practice has an advanced Oral Care Program designed to work with your dentist to minimise adverse effects from orthodontic treatment. the ortho practice guarantees you’ll smile when your braces come off!

10 /11

We came to the ortho practice for a ‘third opinion’. At last our daughter’s orthodontic issues were patiently explained to us in plain English. Her care and treatment is now proceeding without any fuss, and the changes are remarkable. Everyone at the ortho practice has been most accommodating, and it’s fun. Our young son is now soon starting his treatment. What more can I say!

NATALIE H, SYDNEY

did you

PREGNANCY Pregnant women may find their teeth and ligaments supporting the teeth react to hormonal changes.

This natural event can reduce the treatment time in some cases, as teeth will move more quickly, due to the increased hormonal activity. As long as good gum health is maintained, braces during pregnancy can be a viable option.

does orthodontics hurt?

Well, yes and no. Initially, braces can cause an ache in the mouth and jaw that can last a few days. This is only while your body gets used to the new pressure and having foreign items in your mouth. In some cases, the appliances can cause rubbing on the inside of the mouth and gums. This can hurt a bit AND can be rectified swiftly with special wax or a quick adjustment of appliances, or both. Sometimes, braces wires will move because the teeth are moving. When your teeth move, your wires can start to poke in areas that don’t feel right. the ortho practice is a ‘pain free’ zone. You’ll be made comfortable and feel in control at all times. Nothing happens without your understanding and we haven’t lost a patient yet! Any discomfort associated with treatment will soon pass and as we have been told many, many times by our satisfied patients, the final results are ALWAYS worth it.

successful orthodontics is much

more than just straight teeth Did you know?…Orthodontics can straighten teeth, but can actually help correct and manage a host of other issues such as: • Habits such as finger and thumb sucking; • How your teeth work together; • Jaw irregularities; • Problem breathing; • Speech difficulties.

In today’s ‘looks conscious’ world, you probably want to look as good as you can. Attractiveness is derived from symmetry and orthodontics helps align your dental and facial structure, for optimum balance.

Orthodontics can help shape: • Both upper and lower jaws and facial profile; • Fullness of lips; • Shape and size of a smile; • And teeth…of course.

what’s the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?

In simple terms, an orthodontist is a dentist who, after a minimum of two years practising as a general dentist, goes back to University for an additional three years full-time study to complete a Masters Degree in the speciality of orthodontics.

Specialising in orthodontics represents more than 4,000 hours of post-graduate education. the ortho practice specialists have over 28,000 hours combined, dedicated to education and training over the last 16 years!

In Australia, although you don’t need a formal referral to see an orthodontist, having a relationship with a general dentist minimises complications and greatly enhances results. the ortho practice considers the family dentist a crucial part of successful orthodontic treatment.

If you do not have a general dentist, call the ortho practice and make an appointment for an initial consultation.

We can help you find a dentist to care for your teeth and gums before, during and after treatment.

12 /13

My son was about to start his treatment here at the ortho practice when I decided that I would like to ďŹ nd out more for myself. I had no idea that it would be so easy. Everything was simply explained and appointments and ďŹ nances arranged. It was no trouble at all to arrange the appointments and work around my schedule. It is a great place to come to for treatment.

MARK W, SYDNEY

conce common orthodontic

cerns 14 /15

Most orthodontic treatment involves correcting similar conditions. The classification of conditions was devised over 100 years ago by Dr Edward H Angle, the ‘father’ of the orthodontic profession. It describes how the upper teeth fit with the lower teeth when viewed from the side.

Dr Angle’s classifications are broadly categorised in the following way: MALOCCLUSION CLASS I, II AND III • Class I occurs when the teeth of the upper jaw (maxilla) are in a normal relationship to the teeth of the lower jaw (mandible); that is, neither jaw protrudes .

• Class II occurs when the teeth of the lower jaw are in a more posterior (backward) position than normal.

The top teeth appear to protrude out over the lower teeth. One example of this type of malocclusion is often referred to as ‘buck’ teeth, Class II Div 1. Another is a deep-bite or Class II Div 2.

• Class III occurs when the teeth of the lower jaw are in a more anterior (forward) position than normal. The lower teeth protrude out beyond the upper teeth. This is often the most difficult type of malocclusion to correct.

OVER-JET, OVER-BITE, UNDER-BITE, DEEP-BITE AND OPEN-BITE • INCREASED OVER-JET: Patients with large over-jets often appear ‘bucktoothed’ and/or have a receding chin. Their lower front teeth are positioned too far behind the upper front teeth. This condition can result from a horizontal over-development of the upper jaw or an under-development of the lower jaw or a combination of both.

• NEGATIVE OVER-JET OR UNDER-BITE: Patients with under-bites have a strong jaw with a prominent chin.

The lower front teeth are positioned in front of the upper front teeth. This condition is caused by the horizontal under-development of the upper jaw, the horizontal over-development of the lower jaw, or most frequently a combination of both.

• OVER-BITE: This term describes the overlap of the upper front teeth over the lower front teeth, when the back teeth are clenched together.

• DEEP-BITE: This occurs when the front teeth overlap so much that the lower teeth are hidden behind the upper teeth and often contact the palate. This also often means increased excessive wear of the upper and lower front teeth.

CLASS I

CLASS II

CLASS III

LATERAL INCREASED OVER-JET BEFORE

LATERAL NEGATIVE OVER-JET BEFORE

LATERAL DEEP-BITE BEFORE

INCREASED OVER-JET AFTER

NEGATIVE OVER-JET AFTER

DEEP-BITE AFTER

• OPEN-BITE: This occurs when the upper front teeth cannot meet or overlap the lower front teeth even though the back teeth have closed together. Sometimes this makes eating difficult. Open-bites are caused by the over-development of the back portion of the upper jaw in a vertical direction. As the back portion of the upper jaw grows vertically downward, the lower jaw will open in a clockwise direction. This explains why some openbite patients often have a long facial appearance.

CROWDING AND SPACING • Crowding means that there is not enough room for the teeth to emerge in their correct positions, and we have to address this by considering treatment to expand the jaws to accommodate the teeth or to extract teeth to allow the remaining teeth to fit in. It is not just an aesthetic concern; it also makes brushing and flossing very difficult. This is a very common condition.

• Spacing is the opposite of crowding, indicating a combination of small teeth on a larger jaw base or increased influence of the tongue.

CROSS-BITE • Anterior Cross-bite (front teeth).

• Bilateral Posterior Cross-bite (back teeth).

TMJ (TEMPORO-MANDIBULAR JOINT OR ‘JAW’ JOINT) • Jaw function.

• Jaw joint sounds.

• Jaw and muscle pain.

• In certain cases, these issues can be helped by orthodontic treatment to re-establish the bite and improve jaw movement. In situations where the pain and discomfort is severe or may cause a concern during any planned treatment, it is recommended that a further assessment and advice be obtained by qualified Jaw Joint Specialists (Prosthodontists), before treatment commences.

CROWDING BEFORE

SPACING BEFORE

COLOURED BRACES

CROWDING AFTER OPEN-BITE BEFORE

SPACING AFTER ANTERIOR CROSS-BITE BEFORE

CLEAR BRACES POSTERIOR CROSS-BITE BEFORE

OPEN-BITE AFTER

ANTERIOR CROSS-BITE AFTER

POSTERIOR CROSS-BITE AFTER

16 /17

orthodontics +

We would like to thank you for your help with Bryce’s teeth the last 12 months.

Bryce was initially apprehensive about wearing the plate, however, the choice of colours made it cool!

Through your encouragement Bryce showed great responsibility, only losing the plate once in a garbage bin. It was easily retrieved and KFC knew no different.

Thanks again Theo for your help and encouragement, Bryce’s teeth look much better and he is quite proud.

MARIE-CHRISTINE T, SYDNEY

This very complex issue relates to a combination of insurance cover, the insurance company and the level of rebate for an individual. In many instances, the increase in insurance choice has led to some confusion. the ortho practice recommends you consider all costs and benefits for your individual situation when obtaining or increasing cover to include orthodontic treatment.

Things to consider include: • The cost of cover; • Possible delay of the qualifying period; • Annual amount of rebate; • Total lifetime cover; • Whether the amount invested for orthodontic cover exceeds the allocated return.

insurance

the ortho practice cannot recommend insurance companies, however our flexible payment plans assist you in claiming your refund. Please be sure these issues have been considered and discussed prior to the start of treatment.

18 /19

practice DR THEODOR BAISI

the orthodontist team As well as being members of several dental study groups and community aid groups, all the ortho practice orthodontists are members of the Australian Society of Orthodontists and the Australian Dental Association.

They are also committed to maintaining their extremely high skills through extensive continuing education, as well as participating in on-going certiďŹ cation with the Australasian Orthodontic Board.

Theo completed his Bachelor of Dental Surgery and Master of Dental Science (Orthodontics) from the University of Sydney and worked with the highly respected Orthodontists, Dr J F Reading and Dr D J Bradley. After a number of years, Theo acquired the business and set about developing it further as a practice of excellence and distinction.

In 2001, the ortho practice was born and it continues today with Theo enjoying great results for all patients with his energetic and fun personality.

As well as operating this highly regarded private practice, Theo’s devotion to his profession has led him to hold a variety of teaching positions at the University of Sydney. Over the years he has lectured and tutored at both Undergraduate and Postgraduate level, maintaining his educator role today as Appointed Lecturer (Part-time) Discipline of Orthodontics.

Theo is also an active member of the greater Orthodontic community, holding many titles including a number of years as President of the Australian Society of Orthodontists, NSW Branch. He is now the Treasurer of the Australasian Orthodontic Board and Treasurer Elect of the Australian Society of Orthodontists (National).

creating beautiful smiles

DR THEODOR BAISI

e

DR TERIKO REX

DR DARIN BALLARD

PROFESSOR M. ALI DARENDELILER

DR TERIKO REX

DR DARIN BALLARD

PROFESSOR M. ALI DARENDELILER

Teriko graduated as Bachelor of Dental Surgery from the University of Sydney Dentistry with ďŹ rst class honours. This standard she continued in her specialist training Master of Dental Science (Orthodontics) at the University of Sydney by graduating as one of the best students in Australia.

Darin obtained his Bachelor of Dental Surgery from the University of Sydney and worked for a number of years in both general private practice and with the Royal Australian Air Force. He then completed his Master of Dental Science (Orthodontics) at the University of Sydney, working at both the Sydney Dental Hospital and Westmead Centre for Oral Health.

Ali completed his training in Dentistry at the University of Istanbul, Turkey and his PhD at the University of Gazi, Turkey. His career includes time at the University of Geneva, Switzerland as a Clinical Instructor and Research and Postgraduate Coordinator. He also held the titles of Assistant Professor at the University of North Carolina and a Research Professor at the University of Southern California in the United States of America.

Her determination and quest for knowledge have won Teriko prestigious research prizes as well as leading her to publish numerous research articles around the world. Her wonderful skills, personality and love of the profession have seen her develop into one of the rising stars of Australian Orthodontics.

Teriko continues to support the development of one of the best Orthodontic training programs in the world by tutoring the Postgraduate students at the University of Sydney.

Teriko also maintains an active role in the administration as the Treasurer of the Orthodontic Alumni.

Her bright smile and calm gentle nature, make her easily approachable and happy to answer any important concerns regarding your Orthodontic treatment.

Darin brings with him a new generation of thought and knowledge. He is at the forefront of the use of temporary anchorage implants in Australia, an exciting new technique that allows successful solutions to what were previously thought to be impossible tooth movements. Darin indulges this passion with continuing research at the University of Sydney as well as by passing this knowledge on through teaching at the University of Sydney Orthodontic training program and by being invited to lecture at various dental events. the ortho practice is well known to be a high standard, energetic, compassionate and understanding environment, all of which attributes Darin possesses.

This means your experience will always be professional, informative and fun.

Since his arrival in Sydney in 1996, Ali has enjoyed the role of Professor of Orthodontics lecturing locally, nationally and internationally on early interceptive and preventive treatment in dental and orthopaedic discrepancies, management of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea, management of Interdisciplinary and Orthognathic Surgery cases, the use of magnets and magnetic forces in orthodontics and orthopaedic problems, orthodontic tooth movement and orthodontic root resorption. Ali is often called upon to treat those patients with demanding special needs.

Ali is a member of numerous dental and orthodontic societies as well as being on editorial boards and referee to a number of Australian and international journals.

20 /21

I wish to express my complete conďŹ dence and satisfaction with the skill and professionalism of Dr Theo Baisi during the treatment of four of my children for orthodontic procedures.

My family has been attending this surgery since 1997 and has always found the staff pleasant and accommodating. Dr Baisi’s assessments and predicted outcomes have been accurate and the treatments 100% successful, including a very involved surgical and implant procedure on one child.

I have no hesitation in recommending any person to take advantage of the care offered by Dr Baisi at the ortho practice.

JAN H, SYDNEY

16 frequently asked questions

• Whether you will need any auxiliary orthodontic appliances in your treatment, such as a palate expander or a functional appliance.

For more frequently asked questions, please visit our website at www.orthopractice.com.au

thinking of

getting braces?

1

CAN YOU BE TOO OLD FOR BRACES? There is no age limit for braces. As long as you are dentally fit and healthy, braces can be used to straighten your teeth and correct your bite.

More people over age 30 are getting braces today than ever before.

So you see, it isn’t just a matter of making your teeth look pretty. There are lots of other factors to take into consideration. This is why you sometimes need a full set of braces, even if you think that you only need them on the top or the bottom. For some people, if their bite is good and perhaps they only need a bit of straightening, they can sometimes get braces on the top or bottom teeth only.

4 5

Many adults ‘finally get their teeth done’ when their kids go in for orthodontic treatment. It’s more common than you think!

2

3

ARE PEOPLE GOING TO THINK I LOOK NERDY OR WEIRD WITH BRACES ON MY TEETH? Of course you’re self-conscious because it is YOUR mouth, but frankly most people don’t give a hoot. Look around you, more and more people including sports and pop stars are wearing braces.

Your braces are a conversation piece for about three minutes; after that, nobody pays much attention. And most people do not think you look nerdy. In fact, they probably think you look cute, or applaud that you are doing something positive to improve your appearance, and your dental health. Whenever you become self-conscious about your braces, think about how great you’ll look after they come off! Look at some of the testimonials on our website!

CAN I GET BRACES JUST ON THE TOP OR BOTTOM? That depends on your case. Orthodontics is not just about making your teeth straight or making them look better. Most dentists and orthodontists take a lot of things into consideration when recommending treatment, such as: • How the top and bottom teeth meet with each other (i.e. your bite); • How well you can chew your food; • Whether you have a habit such as a tongue thrust problem; • Whether extractions will be necessary to correct your problems;

6

WHEN WILL I BEGIN TO SEE CHANGES IN MY TEETH AFTER THE BRACES ARE PUT ON? Most people begin to see changes in their teeth in the first 2 to 6 weeks of treatment.

WHAT IS A MALOCCLUSION? Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry dedicated to the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of problems in alignment of the teeth and jaws. The technical term for these problems is ‘malocclusion’, which from the Latin literally means bad bite (mal = bad; occlusion = bite), a bite with problems.

CAN I GET THOSE INVISIBLE BRACES INSTEAD OF TRADITIONAL ONES? That depends on your specific case. Invisalign® is a new system from the United States, involving the use of clear plastic plates which are almost invisible. While they do work very well, they do not suit all types of malocclusions.

The Invisalign® website can also be a good source of initial information. The best way to find out is to come and see us for an Initial Consultation.

All the orthodontists at the ortho practice have embraced Invisalign® as an excellent system when used in the right situations.

The other type of ‘invisible’ braces are those placed on the inside of the mouth on the backs of the teeth. Again, these are very specific appliances and require careful assessment and thought before using them.

22 /23

7

SHOULD I GET TEETH EXTRACTED AS PART OF MY ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT? It depends on your specific case. If you are young and your jaw is still growing, we can work with your growth to straighten teeth, often without the need for extraction(s). If you are an adult, we are a little more limited. Extraction(s) may be the only way to successfully straighten your teeth and correct your bite, but it will depend on your individual situation.

The decision for extraction must consider a number of factors, and it is vital to achieve a correct ‘diagnosis’ and appropriate treatment plan. At the ortho practice we aim to keep as many teeth as we can and therefore do not take the extraction decision lightly. We will often arrange a separate consultation to discuss the reasons for the need for extraction(s).

If we cannot logically explain the need for the extractions in straight forward terms then we have not done our job in communicating, because at the ortho practice we do not hide behind our degrees to confuse and bewilder!

8

DO I HAVE TO CHANGE MY DIET WHEN I WEAR BRACES? Yes you do, to some extent. At first your teeth will hurt and you will not be able to bite into firm foods, big sandwiches, or anything too chewy or crunchy. It is best to stick to soft foods until your teeth begin to feel better, usually in a week or so. After this time you will be able to chew normally. At this point it will be important to remember the instructions given at your ‘braces-on’ appointment and stay away from the hard, sticky lollies and bones, etc. The more you can be aware of what and how you eat, the more you will minimise such things as breakages and deformations of the orthodontic wires.

This translates directly to having the braces removed in a shorter time frame.

Throughout all of your treatment it is vital that you minimise the amount of juices and soft drinks, and various sweets as well as diet drinks and cordials, to further ensure that decay of the teeth is avoided.

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I WORE MY RETAINER WHEN I WAS YOUNGER, BUT MY TEETH SHIFTED YEARS LATER. IS THIS COMMON? Yes, it is more common than you think. The teeth are actually more dynamic than you’d expect.

Often your bite can change in adulthood, as teeth move throughout life, for many reasons.

Unfortunately it is a natural maturing (aging!) process. A number of adults are in braces for a second time, to get back that perfect smile.

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DO I NEED TO HAVE SPACERS PUT IN BEFORE BRACES? Sometimes there isn’t enough space between certain teeth to insert a metal band or other appliance. Spacers help move the teeth slightly, to create space that is needed for your treatment.

WHAT IS A BRACKET? These are the attachments placed and bonded with composite resin onto the outsides of the teeth. They can either be made of metal (stainless steel or gold) or clear ceramic materials. They are used to hold the arch wires in position which in turn affects the movement of the teeth.

WHAT IS A BAND? A band is much like a bracket as it also holds the arch wires. It usually is used on the back molar teeth. A band is a stainless steel attachment fitted and formed around the tooth for extra strength and support. It is also glued or cemented into position.

WHAT IS AN ARCH WIRE? The arch wire is the metal wire that goes across your braces, engaging into the brackets and bands from one side to the other. You have two arch wires; one on the top (upper) and one on the bottom (lower) teeth. The pressure from the arch wire is what helps to move your teeth. The arch wires come in different sizes and stiffness to help deliver the desired gentle forces required.

WHAT IS A LIGATURE? A ligature (also called an ‘o-ring’) is a tiny elastic band that holds the arch wire onto each bracket of your braces. Ligatures come in a variety of colours. Some brackets are ‘self-ligating’, which means that they do not need the little elastics to hold the arch wire onto the brackets.

HOW DO BRACES WORK? In a nutshell, the supporting soft tissue ligament surrounding the teeth is loosened through the pressure of the arch wires to encourage the teeth to move. The forces are very light to emulate nature.

I JUST GOT MY BRACES RECENTLY AND MY TEETH FEEL LOOSE. WHY? IS IT OK? The periodontal ligament, which helps to hold your teeth in place, is loosening up.

Yes, this is perfectly normal, although it is very disconcerting. The teeth should stop feeling loose after a few weeks. If you’re very concerned about it, or if the teeth feel loose for months on end, talk to us about it.

contact us IGH

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level 1 822 anzac parade maroubra nsw 2035 SYDNEY CBD

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theo baisi pty ltd abn 15 073 360 728

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info@orthopractice.com.au www.orthopractice.com.au

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maroubra

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t 02 9221 2181 f 02 9232 7132

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park house level 10 187 macquarie street sydney nsw 2000

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sydney cbd

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welcome to the ortho practice

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does your smile reflect the

real you?

I used to have a gap between my two front teeth which was unsightly and annoying. Listening to a radio program on the ABC about Invisalign® I thought perhaps this would fix my gap.

After talking to Theo Baisi it seemed a viable option.

The plusses were there were no bands involved... it worked by moving only those teeth that needed to be moved and so would not interfere with the bridge in my mouth.

All my life I have been dealing with food stuck in between my overlapping front teeth and while the last two children were in treatment I decided to have some work done on my teeth.

So off I went. It has proved a great success – the remodelled teeth are, if anything, better than expected.

Dr Baisi recommended that I try the Invisalign® system and after 30 weeks my teeth are straight for the first time in my life.

RUTH M, SYDNEY

I have found Theo and his staff an absolute pleasure to deal with during my treatment as have all the children.

I would recommend the ortho practice without a shadow of doubt.

ANDREW K, SYDNEY

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