Signs you might need Orthodontics
The most obvious sign is crooked teeth. Everyone knows about this sign and this is generally the reason we get asked whether someone needs braces.
This however, is NOT the only sign. Many other signs do not involve just the alignment of your teeth – but also the alignment of your jaws!
Some examples of orthodontic problems include:
- Crowding or Spacing
- Rotated teeth
- Crossbites
- Overbite or Underbites
- Open bites or Deep bites
- Narrow jaws
- Retruded or Protrusive jaws
- Jaw & mouth muscle imbalance
DO NOT IGNORE any signs of Orthodontic problems you might have. Any sign could be the start of a major problem. In most cases, if the problem is caught early, an early simple fix is all you need. However, if you leave the Orthodontic problem for long enough, this will result in more complex treatment such as Orthodontic Surgery.
Early treatment is key!
Our Orthodontic Philosophy
Orthodontics is not just simply about straightening teeth. Here at Dental at Keys, we aim to create a beautiful full smiles. We pay particular attention to the curvature, width and height of the smile. All of these aspects involve a lot more work than just straight teeth. The last thing we want for you is to have a flat straight smile (ie. Denture smile).
We also pay great attention to the profile of your face. Not only should your smile be full, but your facial profile should match it is as well. There is no point in extracting teeth in a patient who already has a sunken profile. Similarly, patients with lips that are too full should not have this worsen. This is why we say we treat the face, and not just the teeth.
Types of Orthodontic Treatment we offer:
Early Orthodontics
For children whose jaws and teeth are still developing, early orthodontic treatment can make a big difference. This may include expansion, functional therapy, or partial braces to help guide proper growth and create space for incoming teeth. Early intervention can often reduce the need for more complex treatment later in life and set the foundation for a healthy, straight smile.
Jaw Expansion
When the upper jaw is too narrow, jaw expansion is often recommended. This can be done using removable appliances, such as Schwartz Expansion Plates, or fixed (glued-in) appliances, such as the Bonded Hyrax Expander. These devices gently widen the jaw over time, creating more room for teeth to align properly and improving overall bite function.
Functional Appliance Therapy
Functional appliances are designed to correct jaw position and improve bite alignment while a child is still growing. These removable devices—such as Twin Blocks or Angel Aligner A6 Mandibular Advancement Therapy—encourage the jaws to grow into better balance. This type of therapy can help reduce overbites, improve facial profile, and support long-term oral health.
Clear Aligners
For teens and adults who want a discreet alternative to braces, clear aligners are an excellent option. Using trusted brands such as Invisalign, Spark, or Angel Aligner, this treatment straightens teeth with a series of custom-made, virtually invisible trays. They’re removable, comfortable, and allow you to eat and clean your teeth as normal—making them one of the most popular orthodontic solutions today.
Braces
In some cases, braces are still the most effective treatment for achieving the best results. Braces can be used to straighten teeth, correct complex bite issues, and create long-lasting results. At Dental at Keys, we currently only offer braces to selected patients (as of 2022), depending on the complexity of the case. Our dentists will carefully assess whether braces are the right option for your smile.
There are a multitude of Orthodontic options and careful case selection and timing is key!
Common Dental Problems
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Orthodontics cost?
Orthodontics can range from simple devices like space maintainers which cost roughly $300 to complex Clear Aligner Therapy involving expansion and functional therapy. The upper end of the scale can cost over $10,000 for a complex case
Do you need to to refer me to a specialist to do my Orthodontics?
Whilst we are able to do most here at Dental at Keys (except braces), we occasionally may need to refer you to an Orthodontist.
Do I need to wear my retainer?
It is essential that you must wear your retainer for life after your treatment is complete. If not, your teeth WILL move back to their original position!
How long does Orthodontic treatment take?
This can range from a few months for cosmetic or simple cases to several years for complex cases. The average Orthodontic case will generally take 1-2 years.
