Frequently Asked Questions
Braces Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a question about any of our treatments please read our FAQs below.
What is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a specialist nationally accredited by The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency who has their practice limited to orthodontics only. This results in exclusive and extensive experience in applying the latest orthodontic scientific research, in addition to their advanced training that confers expertise in treating all types of facial and dental anomalies.
This combination of experience and training allows an orthodontist to formulate a thorough list of complete treatment options and appliances best-suited to your needs.
What is the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?
An orthodontist has undertaken another three years of full-time university study, in addition to the basic five-year university programme to qualify as a dentist (after a minimum of two years in general dental practice). Your orthodontist, Dr. Kebsch, has achieved further international tertiary accreditations and qualifications in addition to these basic requirements. Learn more.
A general dentist may be able to provide general orthodontic advice but a certified and accredited orthodontist is the only dental specialist who is trained to diagnose and treat the whole spectrum of teeth and jaw misalignment problems.
What is orthodontics and dentofacial orthopaedics?
Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopaedics is one of nine dental specialties. Essentially, whilst orthodontics entails the management of tooth movement, dentofacial orthopaedics involves the guidance of facial growth and development, which occurs largely during childhood.
Sometimes orthopaedic treatment may precede treatment with braces, but the two can be used at the same time.
With wide experience in both areas, Dr. Kebsch is able to diagnose misalignment of the teeth and jaws as well as the facial structures, and can devise a treatment plan that integrates both orthodontic and dentofacial orthopaedic treatments if sufficient facial growth is remaining.
Early assessment enables the possible option of dentofacial orthopaedics to favourably influence jaw growth, simplify future orthodontic treatment needs and enhance facial structural integrity.
When can orthodontics be done?
Orthodontic treatment is undertaken at various times in different patients depending upon the particular problems that need addressing.
Many potential orthodontic problems, however, can be identified by age eight. Early assessment gives parents peace of mind. If treatment is required, the ideal time to commence treatment can be identified. If no treatment is indicated immediately, then six-monthly or annual review appointments are arranged at no fee. This allows treatment to be planned so that it is most effective and efficient.
Do I need a referral before making an orthodontic consultation?
Anyone can book directly with an orthodontist – you don’t need a referral. Your dentist can also provide you with a referral. Some problems, if caught early, can be very simple to treat and can help to minimise more severe problems later. The timing of treatment varies for different problems and your orthodontist is the best person to advise you with regard to this. Your orthodontist will discuss your individual treatment needs with you at your consultation.
What happens at my first visit?
This is a time for the orthodontist to listen to patient concerns and to provide a clinical orthodontic examination. The orthodontist will then determine whether or not treatment is needed and when the best time to start treatment would be. Orthodontic records might then be taken to provide the orthodontist with information in addition to the clinical examination which will assist in analysing/planning the course of orthodontic care necessary.
What are diagnostic records?
Diagnostic records include photographs, x-rays and digital models made of the teeth. The impressions of the teeth are used to develop models for analysis of how the teeth relate to each other, in addition to examining for pathology. Facial photographs and intra-oral photographs are taken to evaluate facial proportions, facial aesthetics and the health of the teeth and gums. Collectively these diagnostic records enable the orthodontist to develop a personalised and appropriate treatment plan for each patient.
Should I continue to see my general dentist during orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment involves the successful partnership of the patient, the general dentist and the orthodontist. It is recommended that patients continue to visit their regular dentist during the course of orthodontic treatment at six-monthly intervals or more often if recommended.
I am a dentist – How can I refer my patient to you?
Whilst patients do not need a referral to make a consultation appointment at BVO, you can refer your patients to us for their orthodontic solutions.
Will Invisalign work for me?
Invisalign is best suited for mild to medium crowding. There are some problems which cannot be predictably corrected with Invisalign and it is important you know this in advance to avoid disappointment.
Dr. Mark Kebsch will perform a thorough diagnosis during your initial consultation to make an informed treatment decision that will deliver predictable results.
