At Unley Park Dental, we understand that the thought of Braces can be a bit daunting.
Our philosophy is simple: we’re here to make this a comfortable and straightforward experience, not a chore.
Getting braces is a big decision, and we never want you to feel rushed or uncertain about moving forward. Our team understands the anxieties that come with orthodontic treatment, which is why our orthodontists will give you an honest evaluation, discuss realistic outcomes, and present your options clearly without any obligation to proceed.
We want you to feel thoroughly informed and comfortable before making any decisions about braces. Your comfort and confidence in the decision matter most to us.
What are Braces for?
Braces are orthodontic devices designed to gradually straighten teeth and correct bite issues by applying gentle, continuous pressure over time. They treat various orthodontic issues, including crooked or crowded teeth, gaps between teeth, overbites, underbites, and crossbites.
They can also address more complex problems like jaw misalignment that affects chewing, speaking, or breathing. Beyond cosmetic improvements, properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
They consist of several key components that work together to move your teeth into their ideal positions. The basic structure of traditional braces includes small metal or ceramic brackets that are bonded to each tooth, connected by a thin wire called an archwire. Tiny elastic bands, or ligatures, hold the wire in place on each bracket.
As we adjust the tension and direction of the archwire during regular appointments, it creates controlled pressure that slowly guides your teeth into proper alignment. This process typically takes 18 months to three years, depending on the complexity of your case.
You have several options beyond traditional metal braces. Ceramic braces use tooth-colored brackets that blend with your natural teeth, making them less noticeable. Lingual braces are placed on the back side of teeth, keeping them completely hidden from view.
Show More +
The Process
Our process ensures every patient receives personalised attention, comprehensive treatment, and ongoing support. From your first consultation through your complete recovery, we prioritise your comfort, understanding, and long-term oral health success. This is what ‘care beyond the chair’ truly means.
Step 1
Comprehensive Discovery & Examination
Your braces journey begins with a comprehensive examination, including X-rays, photos, and impressions of your teeth. We will discuss treatment options and create a personalised plan.
Step 2
Treatment Process
The actual placement of braces is painless and typically takes 1-2 hours. Your orthodontist will first clean and dry your teeth thoroughly. They then carefully bond small brackets to each tooth using a special dental adhesive. Once they secure all brackets, they thread an archwire through the brackets and hold it in place with small elastic bands.
You may experience mild soreness for a few days as your teeth begin to adjust. Your orthodontist will provide detailed care instructions and schedule your first adjustment appointment, usually within 4-8 weeks.
Step 3
Aftercare & Post-treatment Evaluation
Throughout treatment, regular appointments allow your orthodontist to tighten wires, replace elastics, and monitor progress. Each adjustment continues the gentle pressure needed to guide your teeth into their ideal positions.
Why Unley Park Dental for Braces?
Our care goes beyond the chair.
Because you want a dentist who combines experience, innovation, and care. We deliver thoughtful, individualised treatments with the latest technology—always guided by your comfort, needs, and goals.
We don’t follow the standard script. We plan deeper, communicate better, and aim higher. Our process is led by genuine relationships, not conveyor-belt care. From our technology to our tone, everything we do is about delivering a more refined experience.
Each member of our team brings a specialist skillset and a shared philosophy: excellence with empathy. Our dentists are not only highly qualified—they’re deeply committed to your comfort and results.
We believe that great results begin long before treatment starts. Our process starts with a detailed consultation and examination. Using state-of-the-art tools–high-resolution photography, digital x-rays, and 3D imaging–we map out every detail of your dental needs. This approach allows us to plan with precision and avoid unnecessary surprises. Whether you’re here for a simple clean or a full-mouth reconstruction, we’re always thinking three steps ahead.
Show More +
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do braces cost in Adelaide?Braces in Adelaide typically range from <insert amount> to <insert amount>, depending on the type and complexity of treatment. Traditional metal braces cost less, while ceramic or lingual braces cost more. Your specific needs, treatment duration, and chosen orthodontist will affect the final price.
How much do braces cost in SA?In South Australia, braces cost between <insert amount> to <insert amount>, depending on the type chosen and treatment complexity. Average costs range from <insert amount> to <insert amount> for different options. Metal braces are the most affordable, while Invisalign and specialised treatments cost more. Location and orthodontist experience also influence pricing.
What is the difference between braces & invisalign?Braces use metal or ceramic brackets bonded to teeth with wires that gradually move teeth. Invisalign uses clear, removable plastic aligners that are changed every few weeks. Braces work 24/7 and treat complex cases better. Invisalign is nearly invisible and removable for eating, but requires discipline to wear consistently.
What happens after you get braces?You’ll experience mild soreness for 2-4 days as your teeth begin to move. Eat soft foods initially and use orthodontic wax for bracket irritation. Maintain excellent oral hygiene with special brushing techniques. Attend adjustment appointments every 4-8 weeks. Avoid hard, sticky, or sugary foods throughout treatment to prevent damage or decay.
What are the benefits of braces?Braces offer both immediate and long-term advantages that extend far beyond just improving your smile’s appearance, such as:
- Improved Oral Health
Straight teeth are significantly easier to clean effectively. When teeth are properly aligned, you can reach all surfaces with your toothbrush and floss, reducing plaque buildup that leads to tooth decay and gum disease. - Enhanced Confidence and Self-Esteem
A straight, attractive smile can dramatically boost your confidence in social and professional situations. Many patients report feeling more comfortable speaking, laughing, and smiling openly after completing orthodontic treatment. - Better Bite Function
Braces correct bite issues that can cause problems with chewing, speaking, and even breathing. Properly aligned teeth distribute chewing forces evenly, reducing wear on individual teeth and preventing jaw strain or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. - Improved Overall Health
Better oral health contributes to overall wellness, as gum disease has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, and other systemic health issues. Braces help establish the foundation for lifelong oral health habits.
Do’s
- Brush your teeth after every meal and snack
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily using special orthodontic floss or floss threaders
- Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash
- Eat soft foods for the first few days (yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes)
- Cut hard foods into small pieces before eating
- Use orthodontic wax on brackets that irritate your cheeks or lips
- Attend all scheduled adjustment appointments
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed for discomfort
Dont’s
- Don’t eat hard foods like nuts, ice, or hard candy
- Don’t chew sticky foods like caramel, gum, or taffy
- Don’t bite into hard foods like apples or corn on the cob
- Don’t use your teeth to open packages or bite non-food items
- Don’t play contact sports without a proper mouthguard
- Don’t ignore persistent pain or loose brackets
- Don’t skip brushing because your teeth are sore
- Don’t eat sugary or acidic foods excessively
- Don’t use whitening products while wearing braces
Other Services We Offer
Cosmetic Dentistry
Your smile says a lot about you. We offer tailored cosmetic solutions designed to enhance, not overhaul, your appearance. Our services include professional teeth whitening to lift stains, porcelain veneers to perfect shape and colour, and full smile design services that harmonise aesthetics with facial balance. Every cosmetic treatment is planned with your goals and ensures that results look naturally beautiful and feel comfortable.
Orthodontics
Orthodontic care is about more than just aesthetics. Straighter teeth are easier to clean, less prone to wear, and better for your bite and jaw health. We offer clear aligners for discreet correction and traditional braces for more complex cases. Our orthodontic plans are personalised for adults and teens, ensuring comfort, compliance, and great results.
Dental Implants & Restorative Dentistry
Missing or damaged teeth can impact your confidence, speech, and chewing ability. Our restorative dentistry solutions—like dental implants, crowns, and bridges—help you regain full function and appearance. We use digital scans and premium materials to ensure every restoration fits perfectly and lasts. For those needing full-arch solutions, we offer All-on-4 treatments and high-quality dentures designed for natural appearance and stability.
Specialist Dental Services
We offer in-house access to advanced dental procedures you’d typically need a referral for. Our specialist services include gum disease management (periodontics), oral surgery, and crown lengthening for aesthetic or functional improvement. We also provide sleep dentistry (sedation) for nervous patients and emergency appointments when urgency matters most.
Book With Confidence
At Unley Park Dental, tooth extractions are never routine. We treat each case with the care it deserves. With highly detailed imaging, a gentle approach, and a focus on your comfort, we aim to make the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible.
