Great teeth make great smiles and give us confidence. Sadly, our teeth don’t always grow the way we want. If you or your child suffer from crooked teeth, a bad bite, or a misaligned jaw you’ll need to see a fully trained and registered orthodontist. As a specialist, orthodontists have completed an extra three years of training on top of their general dental degree.
Besides straightening teeth, orthodontists provide many other services for children, teenagers and adults, including fixed and removable plates, metal braces, ceramic braces, invisible braces, and clear aligners.
What makes a great orthodontist?
Choosing the right orthodontist will ensure you get the correct procedure for your problem, so it’s smiles all round. As specialists, orthodontists only focus on orthodontics, braces, plates and clear aligner. It’s what they do all day, every day.
It can be helpful to keep the following in mind when choosing an orthodontist.
- Qualifications and experience. Ask about qualifications and experience. In addition to a general dental degree, orthodontists must have completed an accredited three year, full-time university degree in orthodontics and be registered as a specialist in orthodontics.
- Examples of work. You can ask orthodontists for examples of before and after work they’ve performed that is similar to what you need. You can check their websites and online reviews too.
- Latest technology. Look for an orthodontist who uses modern and up-to-date techniques and equipment, so you to get the best possible outcome in the shortest possible time.
- Treatment plan and costs. Orthodontic treatments often involve multiple visits over a longer time (each case is different but it can be a year or two). Ask your orthodontist how long it could take for your needs.
- Itemised costing. It takes time to get that winning smile, which is why orthodontic treatments cost more than regular dental treatments. Different orthodontists charge differently. Ask for an itemised costing so you know what’s included and what isn’t. You may worry about how to pay. Ask about flexible, interest-free payment plans.
- Child-friendly. Orthodontist clinics can worry children. Look for a child-friendly clinic with a fun and relaxed environment. Some clinics have a games room, for example.
The best orthodontists in Canberra
Riotact’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Riotact and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Capital Smiles
Widely recognised as one of Canberra’s leading orthodontic centres of excellence; Capital Smiles offers a complete suite of innovative solutions for children, teens, and adults. Founder and practitioner, Dr Jasprit Singh, established Capital Smiles to deliver the most advanced global standards of orthodontics right here in the ACT.
As the lead Orthodontist, Dr Singh has amassed years of training in leading centres around the world. With close to two decades of professional experience, her credentials are vast as they are impressive. Most notably Dr Singh is the only master’s qualified lingual Orthodontist within Australia and New Zealand.
Dr Singh is also a proud member of numerous local and international professional associations, including The Australian Society of Orthodontists and the Royal Australian College of Dental Surgeons to name a few.
When it comes to treatment, Capital Smiles considers the unique needs of each client, creating customised orthodontic solutions which reflect desired results, lifestyles, and budgets. Whether you are looking for early intervention, jaw correction, traditional or lingual braces, Capital Smiles delivers to the highest standards of patient care.
Conveniently located in Deakin, Capital Smiles’ state-of-the-art clinic boasts a client-first experience. Small touches like entertainment make each visit a personal and pleasant experience. With health and safety paramount, the practice adheres to strict hygiene practices and advanced Covid-19 measures including air filtration and sterilisation.
To transform your smile, book a consultation with Dr Singh at Capital Smiles today.
Ina Halsall shared her wonderful experience on Google, “We had an excellent experience with Capital Smiles. Everyone is so warm, welcoming, and professional. Our appointments were not rushed, and we were given time to ask any questions we had and had a thorough examination and plan. Thank you.”
Embrace Orthodontists
Located in Manuka and Belconnen, Embrace Orthodontists is an award-winning practice leading the way in Invisalign and braces treatments. Dr Pazios, Dr Wei and Dr Mann are highly skilled and experienced. Interest-free, flexible payment plans are available. The initial Invisalign consultation is free.
As satisfied customer Amey Bencke wrote on Google, “In the past two years, myself and two of my children have fixed smiles with Embrace. We're pretty stoked with the service, professionalism, short wait times and attitudes of all the staff. Highly recommended.”
Supersmile
Supersmile has been creating beautiful smiles and excellent functional bites in a friendly and caring environment for over 30 years. Orthodontists Dr Papas, Dr Temo and Dr McConnell offer orthodontic treatments for adults and children, using the latest equipment. Services include Invisalign, clear braces, coloured braces, and Incognito Hidden Braces. The clinic offers interest-free plans.
As Jake Price wrote on RiotACT, “Dr. Hyde and his staff really know how to make my daughter and son feel comfortable and stay calm. Each procedure done at the office has always been explained in detail …”
Corrina St Orthodontics
Corrina St Orthodontics provides first-class orthodontic care and treatment, to improve patients’ overall appearance and general health and wellbeing. The clinic takes care of patients of all ages – children, teenagers and adults – with state-of-the-art technologies and treatments. Teeth-straightening solutions are tailored to the individual for optimal outcomes. Types of braces include Incognito, Invisalign, Lingual, clear, ceramic and standard.
As happy patient Abnishek Sehgal proclaimed on Google, “Fixed my teeth up!”
Civic Gentle Dental Care
Civic Gentle Dental Care’s orthodontic services are about perfect smiles. The clinic treats misaligned teeth, crowded teeth, overbites and tooth spacing issues for adults and young people. Services include dental implants, dental veneers and Invisalign, all with value-for-money.
Xueyin Zha wrote on Google, “I haven't seen a dentist for years and came with a fair bit of anxiety. Dr John Choi made it such a relaxing and fun experience, explaining in detail the condition of my teeth and future care.”
YK Orthodontics
YK Orthodontics provides excellent orthodontic treatment backed by leading technologies. Specialist Orthodontist, Dr Yul Kim, provides customised treatments, starting with early intervention. YK Orthodontics provides metal and ceramic braces, clear aligners and lingual invisible braces. Prices are competitive. YK Orthodontics is open after hours.
Umar A wrote on Google, “Dr Yul is one of the finest dentists in Canberra. I had to take my dad to him in an emergency ... He performed a root canal with great results.”
If you’re looking for more information on orthodontists in Canberra, you might like our article on the best Invisalign orthodontists in Canberra. If you’re after more information on dentistry, read through our articles on Canberra’s best dentists, best cosmetic dentists, best emergency dentists, best teeth whitening services
Your experience with orthodontists in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the orthodontists listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I benefit from orthodontic treatment?
The first step is to have a consultation with an orthodontist to outline your concerns and to enable them to examine your teeth, mouth, gums and jaw. This appointment takes place first and then your orthodontist can develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
Do I need to get a referral from my dentist to see an orthodontist?
No. You can make an appointment with an orthodontist any time to discuss your orthodontic needs and set up a treatment plan. Your dentist may make a referral but you don’t need to choose that orthodontist. You're free to see anyone you feel can do the best job for you.
How long will it take to get a winning smile from my orthodontist?
This depends on the complexity of your circumstances and your orthodontist will be able to be more specific after an initial consultation and examination.
Why is orthodontic treatment so expensive?
Orthodontic treatment is expensive because teeth move slowly. Since tooth movement is slow, treatment times can be up to two years or more. The time varies by age, with adults sometimes needing more time.
What is the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?
An orthodontist becomes an orthodontist after three years of postgraduate study in the field of orthodontics. This is done on top of their degree in dentistry. Some orthodontists belong to a professional body like the Australian Society of Orthodontists.