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Dentalcare West

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General Family Dentistry

Orthodontics

Dental Implants

Cosmetic Dentistry

Emergency Care

Dentures

High-Tech Dentistry

Before you go to Thailand

Sleep Dentistry

Planning your orthodontic treatment starts with a personal consultation with one of our skilled principal dentists Dr James, Dr Aaron, Dr Zeb or Dr Alex. During your consultation, we'll talk with you about your concerns and what you hope to achieve. 

In some cases, we may decide to monitor your dental development and growth and review this before commencing treatment. We also may need to take x-rays, photographs and digital models of your teeth. These help us in our diagnosis and treatment planning. Once we've thoroughly examined your teeth, we'll explain why your teeth are causing problems and talk about treatment options. We won't start any treatment until you're totally happy with the plan and have had all of your questions answered.

In a nutshell, orthodontic treatment involves applying light and sustained forces on the teeth to move them into an ideal position. This may involve the use of removable plates, fixed braces or clear aligners. Sometimes it’s a combination of a few of these. Treatment time varies, but allow for around 18-24 months. We'll need to see you at regular intervals during your treatment to check on progress and make minor adjustments. Once treatment is complete, you'll need to wear a retainer for some time to help keep your teeth in their new position. 

Want to know more about the orthodontic process, costs or what aftercare is involved? Find out more on our FAQ page.


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The Process - what you need to know

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Teeth straightening and correction treatment

Orthodontics is a specialised field of dentistry that involves correcting irregularities of the teeth and jaws. In other words, it's all about straightening up those crooked teeth and misaligned bites. The aim is to create a healthier mouth and a beautiful, confident smile!

The first step toward achieving that beautiful smile is to book an appointment with one of our team who will examine your teeth and discuss treatment options. One of the comments we often hear from clients who have completed treatment is that they wish they'd done it earlier. Teeth straightening is one of those transformative treatments that people never regret. 

Principal dentists, Dr James Philpott, Dr Aaron Lee, Dr Zeb Laqekoro and Dr Alex Wu are all highly skilled, qualified practitioners with many years of experience. We recognise that there are a lot of misconceptions and misinformation regarding options for orthodontic care. At Dentalcare West, we want to help you make an informed choice for your, or your child's, orthodontic care. Feel free to book for a no obligation, FREE initial orthodontic consultation and xray, worth $220, so you can learn more about our treatment approach and understand what treatment options we recommend for you or your child.

At Dentalcare West, we offer:
- All-inclusive treatment plans, no hidden extras
- Traditional metal braces, ceramic white braces and clear aligners like Invisalign.
- Interest-free payment plans from $62.50 per week
- Convenient opening hours
- A friendly and caring environment
- The latest 3D cone beam CT scanner – which assists us to diagnose the most difficult of orthodontic and TMJ (jaw) issues
- SmileCAD – technology that makes your treatment more comfortable and helps achieve long term results to perfect your smile.

Types of braces

Orthodontics for Kids

Orthodontics for adults

 Orthodontic FAQ

Braces Care

Invisalign Teen

Invisalign

**Removable Plates**
Removable plates are most commonly used in very young children who do not yet have their permanent teeth, but they can be used for all ages, including adults. We use removable plates to:
- Expand and create space in the jaws in cases of tooth crowding
- Correct cross bites
- Encourage forward growth of the jaws when required

Removable plates are usually worn full-time except for brushing your teeth. They come in a variety of colours, from completely clear to fluorescent with glitter!

**Metal Braces**
These are the most common type of braces that we use for children and teenagers. Metal braces are made out of high-grade stainless steel or titanium and are the most durable braces available so they are most able to withstand the ‘rough and tumble’ of children and teenagers’ lives.

**Ceramic Tooth-coloured Braces**
Tooth-coloured braces are the most common type of braces we use for adults and are made out of ceramic. They function the same way as metal braces but are much less visible, so generally all you can see is the wire. They are very popular with our adult patients! Over the last 10 years we have been using less and less ceramic braces as the options of clear aligners, like Invisalign, offer even better results.

**Invisalign**
Invisalign is a method of straightening teeth that uses a series of custom-made clear plastic aligners which are worn over the teeth and changed by the patient every two weeks. These aligner trays are made of smooth, comfortable and virtually invisible plastic that you wear over your teeth.

Teeth straighten gradually over a period of months. Invisalign aligners contain no metal brackets or wires and are comfortable. They are also removable for eating and tooth brushing. The best part about the whole process is that most people won't even know you're straightening your teeth. Unfortunately Invisalign is not suitable for all patients as it cannot provide orthopaedic bone movement or jaw repositioning, but our orthodontic team will be able to advise if this treatment is suitable for your individual case. 

Find out more about [Invisalign here](/treatments/orthodontics/invisalign).

**What is the ideal age for a child to start orthodontic treatment?** 
We believe the answer is about seven years of age as we can start to identify if there might be orthodontic issues. 

In a healthy situation the teeth of a pre-school aged child should be spaced to allow room for the wider adult teeth to erupt. When the child bites together, all upper and lower teeth should meet and the upper teeth should all sit in front of/outside the lower teeth. When the child swallows, all upper and lower teeth should meet. If a child’s teeth deviate from any of these norms, early orthodontic treatment may be required.

Orthodontic treatment is of course only effective when a child is willing and able to tolerate dental visits and orthodontic appliances. Though we prefer to treat children as soon as orthodontic problems are identified, sometimes this is not feasible. In this circumstance we monitor the child with regular visits until they are comfortable and happy to proceed.

**Early treatment may help with:**
- Proper jaw growth
- Improving appearance
- Improving positioning of permanent teeth
- Comfort – wearing plates is far more comfortable than wearing braces. 
- Self-esteem 
- Preventing more serious problems from developing
- Lower expenses than treatment in later years

Want to know more about the orthodontic process, costs or what aftercare is involved? Find out more on our [FAQ page](/treatments/orthodontics/orthodontic-faq).

Modern orthodontic treatment is not just for children, in fact, more than 35% of our orthodontic patients are adults. The range of treatments available to us means we can custom-make an orthodontic plan for you that fits your lifestyle and budget. Cosmetic options such as tooth-coloured (ceramic) braces and [Invisalign](/treatments/orthodontics/invisalign) mean that straightening your teeth no longer involves a mouth full of ‘train tracks’.

Orthodontic treatment not only improves your appearance and self-esteem, it can also improve the health of your teeth, gums and jaws. Poorly aligned teeth are more difficult to clean, causing a greater risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bone loss. A bad bite can cause abnormal wear of the teeth and TMJ (jaw joint) problems. 

Many of our adult patients have orthodontics in conjunction with other treatments such as tooth whitening, porcelain veneers, dental implants and amalgam filling replacement. The varied skills of our dental practitioners ensure that patients can have all of their treatment needs filled here at Dentalcare West.

If you're considering having orthodontic treatment, you'll no doubt have lots of questions. We've tried to cover off as many as possible on this page, but if you have any other questions, no matter how small, just [contact us](/contact-us) and one of our friendly staff will be only too happy to help. 

**Who can benefit from orthodontics?**
Anyone concerned about the appearance and function of their teeth and jaws. Treatment can start as young as seven years of age, with no upper age limit. Most orthodontic treatment is undertaken in the early teenage years as this is when growth is most rapid.

**What are the fees?**
Our costs are very competitive with interest-free payment plans available. We provide an all-inclusive price with no hidden extras and includes two-years follow-up with retainers included following treatment. Actual costs vary depending on the severity of the problem and the complexity and length of treatment, that’s why we offer our initial consultations free of charge, so you can find out what your smile requires.

Here is what you might pay for orthodontic treatment:
- Treatment over 18 to 24 months with braces ranges from $6500-$7500
- Clear aligners such as Invisalign, over 4 to 24 months range from $3000-$9500
- If surgery, extractions, plates or other special jaw techniques are required there may be higher fees.

And if you live in Auckland you will find this is a pretty good deal.

**What finance options are available?**
We've made financing orthodontics easy and affordable. You can either pay for treatment up-front in one payment and receive a small discount, or pay the treatment off interest-free over a period of time. For example, let's look at a $7000 two-year orthodontic treatment plan:
- Option 1: Payment up-front at a 5% discount would be $6650.
- Option 2: Payment over a two-year treatment period would require a deposit of $1500 then $250 per month (or $62.50 per week) for 24 months by direct debit. 

We'll discuss costs and payment plans for your needs at your initial consultation. 

**How long will treatment take?**
Orthodontic treatment can vary between a few months to several years depending on the severity of the problem. The average treatment period is around 18 to 24 months, however we'll be able to give you an idea on how long your treatment will take at your initial consultation. 

**How often will I need to come in?**
You'll need to see us every 4-8 weeks during treatment to have your brace or Invisalign checked and adjusted. This varies according to which phase of treatment we are in.

**What is retention?**
Once your braces have been removed it is vital that your teeth are kept in their new position. This can be achieved with the use of an upper invisable plate and a fixed wire which is bonded behind the lower front teeth. You will need the plate full time for six months and then nights only for around 12-18 months. Your dentist will monitor your retention for two years after your braces have been removed.

**What are fixed appliances?**
Fixed appliances are more commonly known as braces and are very effective at straightening the teeth. Braces comprise of high-grade stainless steel or clear porcelain brackets which are fixed to each tooth. These brackets act as a handle, allowing the teeth to be moved as directed by a wire which runs along the brackets. 

**What are removable appliances?**
These are a type of plate used to correct the position of your teeth, jaw bone or bite. This term can also used to describe the retainers worn at the end of treatment. 

**What are functional appliances?**
These appliances use the functional forces of the face to correct the bite and are often used in growing patients. They are generally used to increase the size of the jaw or move it forward or back. 

**Will I need to have any teeth out?**
We will only take teeth out if it is necessary, and you will be advised at your initial consultation whether this is likely. 

**How do I look after my braces?**
Your teeth have to be kept very clean. It's important to avoid sticky foods and sugary drinks as these will promote dental decay. You'll also need to avoid eating hard foods during treatment and will need to eat only very soft food in the first few days after your braces are applied. You'll receive an information sheet at the time your braces are put on that will provide you with more tips about caring for your braces. You will also need to see your dentist for regular dental check-ups during treatment and you may need extra dental hygiene visits. 

**Will it hurt?**
Having braces applied is quite straightforward and not at all painful. Several hours after the braces have been placed you are likely to feel some discomfort. This will ease after the first week but some discomfort may also be felt after each orthodontic visit. Some people find that paracetamol helps ease this discomfort. 

**Can I still play sports?**
Yes, you can still continue playing your favourite sport, but we definitely recommend the use of a custom-fitted mouthguard. Find out more about mouthguards [here](/treatments/general-family-dentistry/mouth-guards).

**What is Invisalign?**
Invisalign is a clinically proven, virtually invisible way to straighten teeth without metal braces.

Invisalign is a series of removable, clear plastic aligners which are worn day and night over your teeth to gradually move them into the desired position. Each aligner set is worn for about two weeks and is then replaced with the next in the series until your treatment is complete. 

**What are the benefits of Invisalign?**
**Benefits of straighter teeth:** 

The benefits of having a straight smile without crowding or gaps extend far beyond the cosmetic. Teeth that are crowded or have gaps between them are often more susceptible to gum disease. They may also be difficult to brush or floss, leading to tooth decay. Straightening your teeth can result in better dental health, fresher breath, and the self-confidence that comes with having a smile you're proud of.

**Benefits of using Invisalign over traditional braces:** There are several benefits when comparing traditional braces and Invisalign. These include:

- **Cosmetic benefits:** Invisalign aligners are made of clear plastic material and are virtually unnoticeable, allowing you to straighten your teeth without anyone noticing

- **Oral health benefits:** There are no wires or metal to cause mouth abrasions with Invisalign as compared to traditional braces. And because Invisalign aligners are removable, you can eat, drink, brush and floss normally to maintain healthy gums and teeth. Being removable, they also make regular dental check-ups easier.

- **More predictable treatment:** With the ClinCheck software, you can actually see what your smile will look like after treatment even before you begin. And because we can review the progress during your treatment and make adjustments mid-treatment if required, you have a high level of control over your Invisalign treatment.

**What is Invisalign made of?**
Invisalign aligners are made of SmartTrack which is an elastic aligner material made of a medical grade polyurethane resin that is bisphenol-A (BPA) free. This thermoplastic material looks similar to tooth-whitening trays.

**How do Invisalign Invisible braces work?**
A series of Invisalign invisible aligners are custom-made in a laboratory using advanced computer imaging technology. You wear each Invisalign aligner for two weeks before replacing it with the next one, until your teeth are straight. 

Here at Dentalcare West, we have developed a simple four-step Invisalign plan:

- **Step 1: Book in for your free consultation**
One of our Invisalign practitioners will answer your questions and show you some of our previous work to ensure you are well informed and confident about your choice.
- **Step 2: Receive your Invisalign treatment plan**
At your records appointment, we will take x-rays, photographs and digital impressions of your teeth to create a treatment plan for straightening your teeth.
**- Step 3: Create your new smile**
We will then go to work creating your new smile. The treatment plan, along with the latest 3D computer imaging technology, is used in the laboratory to create your clear aligners. The number of aligners needed (usually 15 to 30), depends on your specific circumstances.
**- Step 4: Maintain and smile!**
About every 2 weeks, you will replace your existing aligners with the next set in your series. And every 4-8 weeks, depending on your situation, you will visit our clinic to ensure your treatment is progressing properly. It typically takes 12 to 18 months to complete orthodontic treatment with Invisalign.

**Is Invisalign treatment only for adults?**
No, for Invisalign treatment you just need to have all of your permanent teeth (fully erupted molars). However, you must be committed to wearing your Invisalign aligners at all times except for eating, drinking and cleaning.

At Dentalcare West we see a range of different ages from young to older patients and we definitely encourage you to come in for a complimentary consultation if you would like to know more about Invisalign.

**How long does Invisalign treatment take?**
Most Invisalign treatments take 12–18 months.

**How long do I have to wear Invisalign aligners?**
Invisalign is most effective when aligners are worn for 22 hours a day. 

**Can I eat and drink with my Invisalign aligners?**
Invisalign aligners are easily removable so you can still enjoy your favourite foods snacks and drinks. You can drink water wearing them, but they need to be removed for other drinks and all foods.

**Do the Invisalign aligners hurt?**
You will feel temporary pressure when you wear Invisalign aligners for the first few days, and after each new aligner is used, as your teeth are being moved into their position, but this discomfort usually disappears after a couple of days. 

**Are there any side-effects in using Invisalign invisible braces?**
As with conventional treatments, you may feel a slight pressure at first when using Invisalign. Invisalign aligners may temporarily affect the speech for some people, and you may have a slight lisp for a day or two until your speech adjusts.

**How much does Invisalign cost?**
Because Dentalcare West is a certified Invisalign provider and treats a high number of Invisalign cases per year, this results in a reduced cost for us which we pass on to our patients. We can offer Invisalign from as little as $3000 (depending on individual cases). 
We also provide a FREE Invisalign consultation to answer all your queries. We are confident in our ability to provide the best possible value for your treatment and are happy to see if we can beat any genuine written quote and treatment plan.

**Will dental insurance cover any of the costs of my Invisalign treatment?**
Yes, providing you have orthodontic coverage, Invisalign should be covered to the same extent as conventional braces. You will need to check the policy details of your individual insurance plan by contacting your insurance provider.

**How do I get started?**
To get started simply [contact us](/contact-us) and our friendly team will arrange a consultation. After your initial Invisalign evaluation, we will discuss your goals for a new smile. We will then plan your full Invisalign treatment and take your impressions and photographs. With advanced computer technology we can then show you what your results may look like, often even on the spot thanks to our state of the art, iTero tooth scanner.


Wearing braces requires patience and discipline. Often, the result of treatment can be more than just a healthy smile, as your orthodontist is also preventing bigger problems from developing later.

Proper oral care at home is important because it will help keep your treatment time on course and might even help reduce it. Furthermore, it will contribute to the long-term health of your teeth and gums. 

Here at Dentalcare West, our dental professionals are all highly skilled, qualified practitioners with many years of experience. At each visit, we'll make sure everything is on track, but in between visits it's important that you are giving your teeth the right care at home. Here are a few helpful tips:

This is important as braces can act as a plaque trap, increasing the amount of plaque in your mouth, which can lead to an increased risk of cavities and gum disease. Good oral hygiene will prevent dental caries appearing whilst wearing braces.

Extra time is needed to clean and brush your teeth properly.

![clean-bracers.jpg](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/clean_bracers_a7cbbc0e76.jpg)

1. First, take off any elastic bands and removable parts (like plates or aligners).
2. One recommended brushing method is to place your brush at a 45 degree angle to the gum. Apply gentle pressure as you brush with a short back-and-forth motion, cleaning each tooth individually for about 10 seconds.
3. Use the same brushing motion on all inner and outer tooth surfaces. Don't forget to brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth - and make sure you reach the teeth in the back, too.
4. Finish by cleaning around your braces, brushing first from the top and then from the bottom. Brush gently and take care not to break or bend any of the brackets or wires.
5. It should take at least 2 minutes each time you brush, and with braces we recommend cleaning three times a day, instead of twice.

How do I clean all areas of my mouth while wearing braces?

Flossing removes the plaque between your teeth and under your gum line-areas beyond the reach of your toothbrush. In fact, if you don't floss, you're leaving up to 40% of your tooth surfaces untouched and unclean.

![flossing-braces.jpg](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/flossing_braces_d9f4a71137.jpg)

Choose a "threading floss" such as SuperFloss made by OralB, with a stiffened end that threads it through the gap between each tooth - above the wire for your upper teeth and below the wire for your lower teeth.

Curve the floss around each tooth in a "C" shape and gently move it up and down the side of each tooth, including under the gum line. 

How do I floss with fixed braces?

After you take the plate out of your mouth, brush and clean between your teeth in the normal way. Then, using your toothbrush and toothpaste, clean your appliance, rinsing thoroughly with water afterwards. It should look clean and smooth, not white and furry.

Also, make sure that you gently brush the gum areas that are covered by your appliance. This includes the roof of your mouth if you wear the appliance on your top teeth.

Cleaning a removable appliance like a plate

Careless eating may break wires or loosen brackets, which will prolong your treatment. Here are a few tips that will help ensure your braces stay in tip-top shape:
- Do not eat lollies, nuts, popcorn or chew gum with the braces
- Avoid soft drinks which damage the enamel and soften it
- Apples and hard pieces of fruit must be cut into smaller pieces
- No toffees or similar foods.

Note, if you do accidentally break or loosen a bracket, please let us know at the start of your next appointment.

Care with your diet

You'll need to make a few small changes to your daily routine while wearing braces, plates or Invisalign. These include:
- Monthly visits to the dentist to have the braces tightened and checked
- A mouthguard should be worn if playing sports
- Carry a toothbrush with you as often as possible to keep things clean.

New habits

Orthodontic toothbrushes have bristles trimmed in a 'V' shape for cleaning above and below the brackets and wire.

Power toothbrushes can remove more plaque than ordinary manual toothbrushes. And some of the newer ones have brush heads specifically made for use with braces.

![brush-braces.jpg](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/brush_braces_43497492c8.jpg)

Interdental brushes have very small heads with fine bristles, perfect for cleaning under wires and between teeth.

![interdental-brushes-braces.jpg](https://strapi.ghost.st/uploads/interdental_brushes_braces_7e740ec6cc.jpg)

An orthodontist may recommend using a combination of home care products in your daily routine.

Which products are best for braces?

Yes. Your dentist will work with you to help you do the best job possible in caring for your teeth and gums.

Do I still need to see my regular dentist?

If you have a teen who needs teeth straightening treatment, but who isn't keen on having metal braces, Invisalign could be the perfect answer. Invisalign treatment uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners to straighten teeth and provide a beautiful, confident smile.

Invisalign has several benefits that are attractive to teenagers and parents alike. Teens love the fact that aligners are virtually unnoticeable compared to the traditional braces and parents can rest assured that the cost is comparable.*

Although Invisalign need to be worn for 20-22 hours per day, they can be removed for brushing, flossing and eating. They can even be removed for that special school photo. And to make sure your teen is wearing them as recommended, we can provide colour-based 'compliance indicators'. 

The team at Dentalcare West is highly experienced in providing Invisalign treatment for teenagers. If you are considering braces for your teenager, consider booking a FREE Invisalign consultation. At this stage we will determine if Invisalign is right for them and answer any questions you may have. 

**To find out more about Invisalign or to book an appointment, contact one of our friendly receptionists on (09) 818 8855 today.**

_*Treatment price will be individually quoted on a case-by-case basis._

If you're looking at options to straighten your teeth, but are put off by the idea of visible metal braces, Invisalign could be the answer for you. Invisalign treatment uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners to straighten your teeth and give you the smile you've always dreamt of. Not only are Invisalign virtually invisible, they're also removable, which means you can eat, drink and brush your teeth normally. 

Dentalcare West is an Invisalign Certified Provider and one of New Zealand's leading Invisalign providers. That means you can trust you're in the best hands and that our team of dental professionals will provide exceptional care through all stages of your Invisalign treatment – helping you realise your dreams of a straighter, more confident smile. 

Your beautiful new smile begins with a FREE consultation with one of our dental professionals, Dr James Philpott, Dr Allen Hu, Dr Zeb Laqekoro, Dr Aaron Lee or Dr Alex Wu. At this stage we will determine if Invisalign is right for you and answer any questions you may have.

Ready to take the next step and find out more about Invisalign? Perhaps you have more questions or would like to see some case studies?

We invite you to experience the Dentalcare West difference with a FREE Invisalign consultation. At this appointment, we'll answer your questions and provide you with the information you need to help make the best decision for your needs. Our friendly team will:
- Listen carefully to your wish list 
- Discuss several treatment options to give you freedom of choice
- Plan a customised treatment plan with you
- Discuss the costs and finance and payment options

To find out more about Invisalign or to book an appointment, contact one of our friendly receptionists on (09) 818 8855 today.
Why Choose Dental Care West for your Invisalign treatment?

**You're in the best hands**
Dr. James, Dr. Aaron and Dr. Alex are all certified Invisalign dentists and have many years of experience in providing this treatment. This means you can trust you're in safe hands when you get your Invisalign treatment at Dentalcare West.

**Competitive and clear pricing**
Cost should not have to be a limitation when you want to straighten your smile. Our Invisalign fees are not only very competitive, but also totally transparent and up-front so you don't have to worry about any hidden costs. We provide a detailed written quote before treatment starts, listing all inclusions. **And if you already have a quote from elsewhere, we would be happy to try and beat it. **

**The latest technology-for accuracy of your results**
We believe in using the best technology to enhance your treatment. For your dental impressions, we use a 3D scanner, which provides consistent and superior quality scans of your mouth without the need for horrible impressions. This advanced technique also allows us to reduce any margin of error and make real-time adjustments to ensure your experience is smooth and comfortable.

**Flexible hours – for your convenience**
We know your time is precious. That's why we cater to people on-the-go and those with busy schedules. Early morning and late appointments are available, and we do our best not to keep anyone waiting.

**We give that little bit extra – because your satisfaction means everything** 
No question is too big or small. We are here for you, which is why we offer you a FREE Invisalign consultation and make the time to listen to your questions, concerns or thoughts.