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The Myths And Facts About Braces

Once it has been determined whether orthodontic braces are the treatment for you, a million questions begin popping up; questions and ideas, myths and facts, all from others who have had orthodontic braces previously. Let us break down some of those myths and give you the facts: Myth: Braces set off metal detectors at the airport Fact: Braces are made from lightweight materials which won’t be detected. At Norwest Orthodontics one of our treatments is Invisalign braces, which uses thermoplastic — meaning no metal and they are also removable by the patient. Myth: Two people wearing braces can lock if they kiss Fact: These days braces to straighten teeth are so sleek, at Norwest we use Damon braces, which are braces that are quite smooth and durable; therefore the likelihood of this actually happening is unlikely. Myth: I am too old for braces                                                          Fact: There is no such thing as too old when it comes to braces. Man
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A Simple Orthodontic Solution To Sleep Apnoea

To function at your prime, the average adult requires 7-8 hours sleep each night. But if you feel tired, listless or unrefreshed even after clocking up a full night’s sleep then chances are you may have undiagnosed Obstructive Sleep Apnoea. Sleep apnoea is estimated to affect more than a quarter of middle-aged males and around 10 per cent of females, but in welcome news, orthodontic intervention is emerging as one of the more successful and less invasive treatment options. Here’s an insight into Obstructive Sleep Apnoea, and how an orthodontic appliance might be just the simple treatment option you need. What is Obstructive Sleep Apneoa Affecting more than a quarter of Australian middle-aged males and around 10 per cent of females in the same age bracket, Obstructive Sleep Apnoea occurs when the muscles in the tongue and throat relax during sleep and partially or completely block the airway. It not only reduces the ability to gain sufficient rest but can lead to
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Adult Braces – What You Need To Know

Not so long ago, braces and teens were almost synonymous, but now an increasing number of Australian adults are considering and undergoing orthodontic treatment . They’re doing it to boost their self-esteem, improve their oral health and attain the smile they always dreamed of. If you’re among the adults considering braces, here’s what you need to know… You’re far from alone According to the Australian Society of Orthodontics up to a third of all patients are now people aged over 20 as more and more adults look to invest in the smile they deserve. And in addition to those already in treatment, many more adults are also considering it. A recent survey by the ASO found: Over half of Australian’s (55%) feel self-conscious about their teeth Almost two thirds (62%) would like to actually do something to fix their crooked smiles Almost half (46%) of Australians would like to ‘change’ their teeth over the chance of changing any other facial feature 60% of
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The Dangers Of DIY Braces

You know what they say about things that look too good to be true…they probably are. And that’s definitely the case with the latest craze that claims people can successfully straighten their own teeth. Whether it’s using rubber bands or home straightening “kits” bought on the internet, orthodontic work is never a DIY affair. In fact, the ramifications of attempting to straighten or shift your teeth offer far from an ideal result, with tooth loss, bone degeneration and pain amongst the likely results. If you’re at all tempted by the internet claims about straightening your own teeth, here are the cold hard facts about the dangers of DIY braces. The usual suspects From rubber bands to dental floss, superglue and paperclips, it seems people will try all manner of tricks to straighten their smile, with many an online blogger sharing their tips on how it can be done. What they aren’t revealing is the sometimes-irreparable damage that can be caused which can cost far more to trea
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What’s The Link? Allergies, Mouth Breathing And Orthodontics

Even before we are born, the jaw is developing, shaping and altering. This constant alteration continues right up until adulthood, with the habits we develop in life all working to influence the way the mouth forms and how the jaw and teeth align. One of the little-known habits that plays an integral role in the formation and shape of the mouth and jaw is the way we breathe, with a body of research now indicating that mouth breathing is one of the biggest contributors to future orthodontic work. Meanwhile, aside from enlarged tonsils and adenoids, the most frequent cause of mouth breathing in children is…allergies. If your child snuffles, sneezes and has a tendency to mouth breathe, here’s what you need to know. Allergies According to the Australian Allergy Centre up to one in five Australians suffer from allergic rhinitis, or what we commonly know as ‘hay fever’. If your child regularly sneezes and snuffles or is constantly congested, they may be among the many
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Your Most Frequently Asked Orthodontic Questions – Answered!

Whether you’re considering braces for your child or are looking to straighten your own teeth as an adult, at Norwest Orthodontics, we’re always happy to answer any questions you have. And, it turns out many people have similar queries when it comes to the orthodontic process. So, to alleviate any concerns and to shed some further light on the field of orthodontics, here are the most common questions that we are asked, and the answers that we hope will assist as you navigate the orthodontic journey. General questions Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist ? No. Although your dentist may recommend you see an orthodontist, a referral is not required. In fact, an orthodontist is among the medical professionals you should see throughout the journey of life. Touching base with an orthodontist is as simple as scheduling an appointment to discuss any concerns you have, any treatment you may require, and to ascertain how and whether they are the right professional
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