What Can You Eat With Braces? Braces-Friendly Foods Explained
You can still enjoy a varied diet while wearing traditional braces or LightForce braces, but some foods need a little extra care. Choosing softer foods and avoiding very hard, sticky or chewy foods can help protect your brackets and wires, while good eating habits also support your oral health throughout orthodontic treatment. So, what can you eat with braces, and which foods should you avoid? Here’s a practical guide. What Should You Eat For The First Few Days After Getting Braces? Your teeth may feel tender for a few days after your braces are fitted or adjusted. During this time, softer foods that require less chewing may feel more comfortable. Try foods such as: Yoghurt Scrambled eggs Soup Pasta Porridge Mashed vegetables Smoothies Soft fish What Can You Eat With Braces? As your teeth adjust to your braces, you’ll likely find a wider range of foods comfortable to eat. Choosing softer, nutritious foods that are easy to chew can help protect your brackets and wires while making mealtimes more comfortable. Foods you can eat with braces include: Soft fruits – bananas, berries, or sliced apples and pears Cooked veggies – think steamed carrots, mashed pumpkin, or roasted zucchini Protein – soft meats (cut into small pieces), scrambled eggs, tofu, tender chicken, or fish Dairy – yoghurt, milk, soft cheese Carbs – bread (without seeds), rice, pasta, porridge, cooked grains Smoothies & soups – delicious and gentle on your mouth, especially after adjustments Pro Tip: You don’t have to give up crunchy fruits and vegetables. How you prepare them matters. Cut apples and pears into small pieces, grate or cook carrots, and remove corn from the cob before eating. Sugary Foods and Drinks With Braces These are okay occasionally but can increase your risk of tooth decay or damage if eaten often. Enjoy in moderation and brush soon after. Cakes, soft biscuits, ice cream, pies Soft drinks, flavoured milk, fruit juices Chips, chocolate, jelly What Foods Should You Avoid With Braces? Some foods can cause serious damage and breakage of your braces, leading to discomfort, extra appointments, and extended treatment time. Skip these until your braces come off. Sticky foods – caramels, chewy lollies, dried fruit, chewing gum Hard foods – nuts, pizza crust, raw carrots, ice, hard lollies Crunchy snacks – popcorn, pretzels, hard chips Sugary lollies – boiled sweets, sherbet Non-food habits – chewing on pens, pencils, or fingernails Why Diet Matters for Your Teeth During Braces Brackets and wires can create extra areas where food and plaque can collect, making good oral hygiene particularly important during braces treatment. Frequently consuming sugary or acidic foods and drinks, such as soft drinks, cordial and fruit juice, can increase the risk of tooth decay and enamel demineralisation (decalcification), which may appear as permanent white marks on the teeth. You don’t need to completely avoid sugar, but limiting how often you have sugary or acidic foods and drinks can help protect your teeth. Choose water as your main everyday drink, brush thoroughly around your brackets and wires, and continue cleaning between your teeth each day. Read our guide to maintaining your oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment for more tips on caring for your smile with braces. Looking After Your Braces at Mealtimes A few small changes to how you prepare and eat food can help protect your braces throughout treatment. Cut harder foods into smaller pieces, avoid biting directly into hard foods with your front teeth and keep up your brushing and regular dental check-ups. If a bracket comes loose or a wire breaks, contact the L&L Orthodontics team or send us an update through Dental Monitoring so we can advise you on what to do next. This information is general in nature. Braces care and wear instructions may vary, so always follow the advice provided by your orthodontic team.
Ultimate Guide to Oral Hygiene During Orthodontic Treatment
Good oral hygiene is always important, but it needs a little extra attention during orthodontic treatment. Braces can create additional areas where food and plaque collect, while clear aligners need to be kept clean alongside your teeth and gums. The good news is that looking after your teeth during treatment doesn’t need to be complicated. With the right routine, techniques and tools, you can help keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment. In this guide, we cover how to brush and floss with braces or clear aligners, what products can help, the oral health problems to look out for and when to see your dentist or orthodontic team. Why Is Oral Hygiene So Important? Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that naturally builds up on your teeth. During orthodontic treatment, brackets, wires and clear aligner attachments can create additional areas for plaque and food to collect. Clear aligners can also hold plaque against the teeth if your teeth or aligners aren’t cleaned properly. Without effective brushing and cleaning between your teeth, plaque build-up can increase the risk of: Tooth decay Gum inflammation and gum disease Enamel demineralisation, which can appear as white marks on the teeth Bad breath Maintaining good oral hygiene helps keep your teeth and gums healthy while your orthodontic treatment progresses. How to Keep Your Teeth Clean With Clear Aligners Because clear aligners are removable, you can take them out to brush and floss your teeth as usual. It’s important to keep both your teeth and aligners clean throughout treatment, particularly before putting your aligners back in after eating or drinking anything other than water. Regular brushing and cleaning between your teeth helps prevent food and plaque from becoming trapped underneath your aligners, supporting healthy teeth and gums throughout treatment. How to Keep Your Teeth Clean With Braces Whether you’re wearing LightForce™ 3D Braces or traditional metal braces, keeping your teeth and braces clean requires a little extra attention. Food and plaque can collect around brackets and underneath wires, so it’s important to clean these areas thoroughly as part of your daily oral hygiene routine. When brushing, take your time around each bracket, paying particular attention to the areas above and below the brackets and along your gumline. Cleaning between your teeth each day is also important, using floss or other cleaning tools recommended by your orthodontic team. Flossing around braces can take some practice. If you’re finding it tricky, ask us at your next appointment and our team can show you techniques and tools that can make cleaning around your braces easier. How Your Diet Affects Oral Health During Orthodontic Treatment What you eat and drink can make a difference to your oral health during orthodontic treatment. Frequently consuming sugary or acidic foods and drinks can increase the risk of tooth decay and enamel demineralisation, particularly when plaque isn’t being removed effectively from around brackets, wires or attachments. You don’t need to completely avoid sugar, but limiting how often you have sugary or acidic foods and drinks can help protect your teeth. Water is the best choice for everyday hydration, alongside a balanced diet and a consistent brushing and flossing routine. If you’re wearing braces, you’ll also need to take a little extra care with hard, sticky and chewy foods, as these can damage brackets and wires. Read our guide to what to eat with braces for braces-friendly food ideas and tips on foods that may need to be avoided or modified. Your Daily Oral Hygiene Routine During Orthodontic Treatment How Often Should You Brush Your Teeth During Orthodontic Treatment? Good brushing habits are especially important during orthodontic treatment, as food and plaque can collect around brackets, wires and attachments. Brush your teeth for 2 minutes at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste, taking extra care to clean along the gumline and around your orthodontic appliance. If you wear braces, you may also find it helpful to brush after meals when possible to remove food caught around your brackets and wires. Take your time and make sure you’re reaching above, below and around each bracket rather than simply brushing over them. How Do You Floss With Braces? Flossing with braces can take a little more time, but there are several tools that can make cleaning between your teeth easier. Floss threaders and super floss can help you guide floss underneath your wire, while interdental brushes can be useful for cleaning around brackets and between teeth. A water flosser can also be a helpful addition to your routine for removing food and plaque from hard-to-reach areas. If you’re unsure which tools to use or how to floss effectively with your braces, ask our team at your next appointment. We can demonstrate different techniques and help you find an approach that works for you. Cleaning Between Your Teeth With Clear Aligners One benefit of removable clear aligners is that you can take them out to brush and floss your teeth as usual. Clean between your teeth every day, paying particular attention to areas where food or plaque may collect. Before putting your aligners back in, make sure your teeth are clean and your aligners have been cleaned as recommended. This helps prevent food and plaque from becoming trapped between your teeth and aligners. FAQs How often should I brush my teeth with braces?We recommend brushing twice daily for 2 minutes at a time. You may also find it helpful to brush after meals to dislodge any food particles stuck in your brackets or wires. Can you use an electric toothbrush with braces?Yes, an electric toothbrush can generally be used with braces. Your orthodontic team can advise you on brushing techniques for your appliance. How do you floss with braces?Floss threaders, orthodontic floss, interdental brushes and water flossers can make cleaning around brackets and wires easier. Do I still need dental cleans while I have braces?Yes. Continue attending your regular dentist for check-ups and professional cleans as recommended. What happens if you don’t
LightForce™ 3D Braces Care Guide
LightForce™ 3D braces are changing the game in orthodontics. Custom-designed and 3D-printed for your unique smile, they offer a precise and comfortable fit. But like any orthodontic treatment, the best results come from good care and healthy habits. Here’s what you need to know to keep your LightForce braces and your smile on track throughout your treatment. How to Brush and Floss With LightForce Braces Brackets and wires create extra areas where plaque and food can collect, so you’ll need to take a little extra care when cleaning your teeth during treatment. Brush at least twice a day using a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Take your time around each bracket, underneath the wire and along your gumline. Clean between your teeth daily using a floss threader, orthodontic flosser or another tool recommended by our team. Use interdental brushes to clean around brackets and reach smaller spaces that your toothbrush may miss. Consider a water flosser as a useful addition to your oral hygiene routine. You can purchase one from our friendly team at reception. Not sure whether you’re reaching all the right areas? Ask us at your next appointment. We’re always happy to show you the best way to clean around your braces. Read our guide for more tips on maintaining your oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment. Eat Smart: Braces-Friendly Foods When your braces are first fitted or adjusted, you may find softer foods more comfortable while your mouth adjusts. Once you’re comfortable eating normally again, you can enjoy a varied diet, but you’ll need to take a little extra care with foods that could damage your brackets or wires. Avoid biting directly into very hard, sticky or chewy foods such as hard lollies, nuts, ice, caramel and chewing gum. You can still enjoy many crunchy foods by preparing them differently, such as slicing apples, grating or steaming carrots and cutting corn from the cob. For a complete list of foods to enjoy, modify and avoid, read our guide to braces-safe foods. What to Do if Your LightForce Braces Feel Uncomfortable It’s common to experience some tenderness or pressure after your braces are first fitted or following certain adjustments. Your cheeks and lips may also need a little time to get used to your brackets. A few things may help while your mouth adjusts: Choose softer foods if chewing feels uncomfortable. Use orthodontic wax over a bracket or wire that’s irritating your cheek or lip. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water if you develop a sore spot. Speak with your pharmacist or healthcare professional about appropriate over-the-counter pain relief if needed. If you’re experiencing persistent pain, a wire is causing significant irritation or something doesn’t feel right, contact our team for advice. Protect Your Teeth and LightForce 3D Braces During Sport You can continue playing sport while wearing LightForce braces, but protecting your teeth and braces is particularly important if you play a contact or high-impact sport. Wear an orthodontic-friendly mouthguard that has enough room to accommodate your brackets and ongoing tooth movement. At L&L Orthodontics, we stock NeoMorph® Mouthguards, which are designed for use during orthodontic treatment. Read our guide to mouthguards during orthodontic treatment for more information about choosing and wearing a mouthguard with braces. If you damage a bracket or wire while playing sport, contact our team through Dental Monitoring or give us a call so we can advise you on what to do next. What Should You Do if a LightForce Bracket or Wire Breaks? If you notice a loose bracket, broken wire or anything else that doesn’t look or feel right, let us know through Dental Monitoring or contact the clinic. If a wire or bracket is irritating your cheek or lip, orthodontic wax can help cover the area temporarily while you wait for advice from our team. Avoid trying to cut, remove or repair your braces yourself. Our team can assess the issue and let you know whether you need an appointment or whether it can wait until your next scheduled visit. Keeping in Touch With Your Orthodontic Team Your scheduled orthodontic appointments allow our team to monitor your tooth movement, check your braces and make any clinical adjustments needed throughout treatment. Between appointments, you’ll also use Dental Monitoring to send regular scans from home. Our clinical team reviews these scans and can contact you if we notice something that needs attention. Dental Monitoring is also an easy way to let us know about a loose bracket, irritating wire or other treatment concern between appointments. Everyday Habits That Help Protect Your Braces A few simple habits can help you avoid unnecessary damage to your LightForce braces: Don’t chew on pens, pencils or fingernails. Avoid biting directly into hard foods. Keep your toothbrush and interdental brushes handy when you’re away from home. Store orthodontic wax somewhere easy to access in case a bracket or wire causes irritation. Check your braces when brushing so you notice loose or damaged brackets early. Need Help With Your LightForce Braces? Getting used to caring for braces takes a little time, and you don’t need to figure everything out on your own. If you’re unsure how to clean around your brackets, something feels uncomfortable or you think part of your braces may be damaged, let us know. L&L patients can contact our clinical team through Dental Monitoring or call our Melbourne CBD or Templestowe clinic for advice. This information is general in nature. LightForce Braces care and wear instructions may vary, so always follow the advice provided by your orthodontic team.
Orthodontics and Sport: Why Mouthguards Are Important
If sport is a big part of your or your child’s life, starting orthodontic treatment doesn’t mean you need to sit on the sidelines. You can continue playing the sports you love, but protecting your teeth becomes especially important when there’s a risk of contact to the face or mouth. Whether you’re wearing braces or clear aligners, choosing the right mouthguard can help protect your teeth and mouth while you play. And because orthodontic treatment changes the position of your teeth over time, there are a few extra things to think about when finding the right fit. Here’s what you need to know about mouthguards during orthodontic treatment. Why Are Mouthguards Important During Orthodontic Treatment? Contact and high-impact sports such as AFL, rugby, basketball, hockey, martial arts and netball all come with a risk of knocks to the face or mouth. These impacts can cause injuries such as chipped, cracked or displaced teeth, as well as cuts to the lips and cheeks. A well-fitting mouthguard helps absorb and distribute some of the force of an impact. If you wear braces, it also creates a protective barrier between your brackets and wires and the inside of your lips and cheeks. The important thing is finding a mouthguard that works with your orthodontic treatment. Your teeth will move throughout treatment, so your mouthguard needs to accommodate your appliance and changes in tooth position. Our Specialist Orthodontist Dr Igor Lavrin explains, “A custom-fitted mouthguard is always the safest option. It offers the best protection, fits comfortably, and ensures athletes can focus on their game without worrying about dental injuries.” Can You Wear a Mouthguard With Braces? Absolutely. If you wear braces and play a contact or high-impact sport, you’ll need a mouthguard that has enough room to fit over your brackets and wires while allowing for changes in your teeth as treatment progresses. Because your teeth are moving, a mouthguard that fitted well at the beginning of treatment may not fit the same way several months later. Check the fit regularly and let our team know if it starts to feel too tight, uncomfortable or no longer sits properly over your braces. Can You Wear a Mouthguard With Clear Aligners? Yes. If you wear clear aligners and play a sport where a mouthguard is recommended, you’ll still need one. Your aligners and mouthguard have different jobs, so your clear aligners shouldn’t take the place of a sports mouthguard. How you manage the two will depend on your individual treatment and the mouthguard you use. If you’re unsure whether to remove your aligners while playing or how sport will affect your daily wear time, ask us. We can give you advice based on your treatment plan. What Type of Mouthguard Do You Need During Orthodontic Treatment? Not every mouthguard works well with orthodontic treatment. If you have braces, your mouthguard needs enough room for your brackets and wires as well as the tooth movement that happens throughout treatment. A re-mouldable orthodontic mouthguard can be useful because you can adjust the fit as your teeth move. If you wear clear aligners, your orthodontic team can help you choose a mouthguard that works with your treatment and explain how to manage it alongside your aligner wear schedule. Most importantly, your mouthguard should fit securely and comfortably. If you’re not sure what you need, ask us before you buy one. We’re always happy to help you find an option that suits your orthodontic treatment and the sport you play. Mouthguards at L&L Orthodontics We stock NeoMorph® Mouthguards at both our clinics. They’re Australian-made, re-mouldable mouthguards designed for moderate-contact sports and can be used during treatment with braces or clear aligners. Triple-layered for protection and comfort Secure, tight fit over teeth and orthodontic appliances like braces or clear aligners Re-mouldable for easy re-fitting and adjustment 3-minute at-home fitting process Designed for use with or without braces and clear aligners (ages 11+) Free from BPA, Lead, Latex, PVC and Phthalates Made in Australia If you’re not sure whether a NeoMorph® Mouthguard is suitable for you or your child, have a chat with our team. We can consider your orthodontic appliance, treatment and the sport you play. Supporting Our Local Sporting Community We know how much sport means to many of our patients and families. It’s one of the reasons we’re proud to support local sports clubs across Melbourne, including football, netball, basketball and little athletics. Playing Sport With Braces or Clear Aligners? You can still get out there and play while you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. You’ll just need to take a little extra care to protect your teeth and orthodontic appliance along the way. If you or your child plays a contact or high-impact sport, talk to us about mouthguards at your next appointment. NeoMorph® Mouthguards are also available from reception at our Melbourne CBD and Templestowe clinics.
Metal Braces Explained: What They Are and How They Work
Metal braces are one of the most established types of orthodontic treatment. They use brackets and wires to apply controlled forces to the teeth, gradually moving them towards their planned positions. Traditional metal braces can be used to treat a range of orthodontic concerns, including crowding, spacing and some bite problems, depending on the individual patient. If you’re considering metal braces for yourself or your child, here’s how they work, what treatment involves and how they compare with other orthodontic options. What Are Metal Braces Made Of? Metal braces are a type of fixed orthodontic appliance used to straighten teeth, correct bite issues, and improve overall dental health. They consist of three main parts: Brackets – small stainless-steel squares bonded to the front of each tooth Archwire – a thin wire that connects the brackets and applies gentle pressure Modules – rubber rings that hold the wire in place and can be changed to fun colours at each visit Together, these parts gradually shift your teeth into alignment under the guidance of your Specialist Orthodontist. How Do Metal Braces Work? Metal braces apply controlled forces to the teeth through a system of brackets and archwires. These forces gradually encourage the teeth to move towards the positions planned by your orthodontist. As your teeth move, the bone and supporting tissues around them gradually adapt. Your orthodontist monitors this movement throughout treatment and makes adjustments when needed based on your individual treatment plan. What Are The Benefits of Metal Braces? Traditional metal braces remain an established treatment option for children, teenagers and adults. Depending on your individual orthodontic needs, some reasons you may consider them include: Versatility: Metal braces can be used to manage a wide range of tooth and bite concerns. Fixed treatment: Because the braces remain attached to your teeth, you don’t need to remember to insert and remove them throughout the day. No custom bracket manufacturing: Traditional brackets come in standard shapes and sizes, unlike individually manufactured custom bracket systems. Personalisation: Coloured ligatures can give patients the option to change the appearance of their braces at appointments. Cost: At L&L Orthodontics, traditional metal braces are generally a lower-cost option than customised LightForce 3D Braces. Metal braces are a great option for teens who want reliable results with the fun of colourful bands, as well as adults with more complex bite or alignment issues. Are Metal Braces Suitable for Everyone? Metal braces can be suitable for many children, teenagers and adults, but they aren’t automatically the right treatment for every patient. Your orthodontist will consider your teeth, bite, oral health, age and individual treatment needs before recommending an orthodontic treatment. If more than one option may be suitable, they can explain the differences so you can make an informed decision. Do Metal Braces Hurt? You may experience some tenderness or pressure when your braces are first fitted or after certain adjustments. Your cheeks and lips may also take some time to adjust to the brackets and wires. When you get your metal braces fitted, we’ll advise you how to manage any initial discomfort. General tips include using orthodontic wax to manage any sharp edges or wires and eating softer foods while your teeth adjust. Experiences vary between patients. If you’re experiencing persistent pain or something doesn’t feel right, contact your orthodontic team for advice. How Long Do You Need Metal Braces? There isn’t one treatment timeframe for metal braces. How long you need to wear them depends on factors such as the type and complexity of tooth movement required and your individual response to treatment. After assessing your teeth and bite in your consultation, your Specialist Orthodontist can discuss the anticipated timeframe for your individual treatment plan. What’s the Difference Between Metal Braces and LightForce™ 3D Braces? Both are fixed braces, but the main difference is how the brackets are made and how treatment is planned. Traditional metal braces use standard, pre-manufactured brackets, while LightForce™ brackets are individually designed and 3D printed based on your orthodontist’s digital treatment plan. You can read our full LightForce™ 3D Braces vs Traditional Braces guide for a detailed comparison. Are Metal Braces Right For You? If you’re considering braces for yourself or your child, an orthodontic consultation is the best place to start. Our Specialist Orthodontists will assess your teeth and bite, discuss your treatment needs and explain which orthodontic options may be suitable for you. Book an orthodontic consultation at our Melbourne CBD or Templestowe clinic. Consultation required to assess eligibility. Our orthodontists will advise whether treatment is suitable for you.
What Are 3D-Printed Braces? A Guide to LightForce™ Braces
3D printing has introduced a new level of customisation to fixed braces treatment. LightForce™ 3D Braces use digital treatment planning and 3D-printing technology to create brackets designed specifically for the individual patient. Unlike traditional braces, which use standard pre-manufactured brackets, LightForce™ brackets are designed around your teeth and your Specialist Orthodontist’s treatment plan. So, what does that actually mean for your orthodontic treatment? Here’s how LightForce™ 3D-printed braces work and what makes them different from traditional braces. What Are LightForce™ Braces? LightForce 3D Braces are a customised fixed braces system that combines digital orthodontic treatment planning with 3D-printed brackets. Developed by American orthodontist Dr Alfred Griffin, LightForce™ Braces are the world’s first fully custom, 3D printed braces. Unlike traditional braces, which use generic, one-size-fits-all brackets, LightForce brackets are custom-designed to fit the unique shape and angle of each of your teeth using the same 3D scanning technology used for clear aligners. Your Specialist Orthodontist digitally plans your treatment, including the intended tooth movements and bracket positioning. LightForce™ technology then uses this treatment plan to design individual brackets for your teeth. Each bracket has a customised base designed to closely match the surface of the tooth it will be bonded to. Custom placement trays then help transfer the digitally planned bracket positions onto your teeth during your bonding appointment. “We believe that the future of orthodontics is going to revolve around 3D printing and customisation.” – Dr Alfred Griffin, founder and CEO of LightForce Why Choose LightForce™ 3D Braces? Customised brackets Traditional braces use standard pre-manufactured brackets. LightForce brackets are individually designed and 3D printed based on your orthodontist’s treatment plan. Digital treatment planning Your Specialist Orthodontist plans the intended tooth positions and bracket placement digitally before your braces are fitted. Custom placement trays LightForce uses custom placement trays to help transfer the planned bracket positions onto your teeth during your bonding appointment. Ceramic and metal options Whether you prefer the discreet appearance of ceramic brackets or the classic braces look of metal brackets, LightForce™ has an option to suit you How Are 3D-Printed Braces Different From Traditional Braces? Both traditional and LightForce™ braces use brackets and archwires to apply controlled forces to the teeth. The main difference is how the brackets are made and how their positioning is planned. Traditional metal braces use standard, pre-manufactured brackets that your orthodontist positions according to your treatment plan. LightForce™ brackets are individually designed and 3D printed based on digital planning completed by your orthodontist. Neither option is automatically right for every patient. Your orthodontist will consider your teeth, bite, treatment needs and preferences when recommending a braces system. Smarter Monitoring with Dental Monitoring Technology We pair LightForce™ treatment with the same advanced Dental Monitoring technology used in our aligner cases. With a smartphone and our app-compatible scan box, patients can submit remote scans from home, the office, or even while travelling. Your orthodontist can track progress from your weekly scans and let you know if an in-person visit is necessary, so you’re supported even when you’re not in the clinic. LightForce’s case studies have also seen patients experience fewer appointments while staying closely monitored. L&L Orthodontics: Australia’s Largest Provider of LightForce Braces We are proud to be the largest provider of LightForce™ 3D printed braces in Australia, based on the number of patients treated since we introduced the technology in September 2022. If you’re looking for a Melbourne orthodontist offering the latest in custom braces and 3D orthodontic treatment, we’d love to help you explore your options. Book a consultation at L&L Orthodontics to find out if LightForce™ 3D printed braces are right for you. With clinics in Melbourne CBD and Templestowe, we make it easy to access the future of orthodontic care today. Consultation required to assess eligibility. Our orthodontists will advise whether treatment is suitable for you.
How Much Do Braces and Clear Aligners Cost in Melbourne?
How much do braces or clear aligners cost in Melbourne? The answer depends on the type of orthodontic treatment you need, the complexity of your treatment and how long treatment is expected to take. At L&L Orthodontics, your treatment fees are based on your individual treatment plan. Before you start treatment, we’ll explain your treatment options, what each option costs, what’s included and the payment options available to you. In this guide, we’ll break down the costs of braces and clear aligners, what can affect the price and what to consider when comparing orthodontic treatment fees. What Influences the Cost of Orthodontic Treatment? The cost of orthodontic treatment varies because every treatment plan is different. Factors that may affect your treatment fee include: The type of braces or clear aligners recommended The complexity of the tooth and bite movements required The expected length of treatment Whether you’re treating one or both arches Any additional appliances or treatment stages required What’s included in your treatment fee, such as retainers and ongoing monitoring After assessing your teeth and bite, your Specialist Orthodontist can recommend suitable treatment options and our team will provide a clear breakdown of the associated costs. Metal Braces: An Affordable Option Metal braces remain a reliable and cost-effective solution, especially for moderate to complex orthodontic issues. In Melbourne, the cost of braces generally starts from $8,000 for a full course of treatment, depending on case complexity and treatment length. Metal braces are popular among children and teens, though adults may also consider them for complicated corrections. If you are budget-conscious, traditional metal braces are almost always the most affordable option with Specialist Orthodontist supervision. Their durability and effectiveness make them a trusted choice across age groups. Ceramic Braces: Discreet and Effective Ceramic (tooth-coloured) braces offer a nearly invisible look, blending with natural teeth for those conscious about their smile during treatment. These typically cost $11,500 for a standard course of treatment in Melbourne. The extra cost compared to metal braces reflects the high-quality, stain-resistant materials and added aesthetic appeal. If your priority is a subtle appearance in professional or social settings, ceramic braces provide an effective alternative to metal. LightForce™ 3D Braces: Personalised Precision LightForce 3D Braces use brackets that are individually designed and 3D printed based on your teeth and your orthodontist’s treatment plan. This additional customisation and digital planning is reflected in the treatment fee, with LightForce generally costing more than traditional metal braces at L&L Orthodontics. The investment for LightForce™ 3D braces typically starts from $11,500 depending on your treatment needs and length. Want to learn more about this treatment type? Read our guide to discover what LightForce braces are and what makes them different. Clear Aligners: Invisalign® and Spark Aligner therapy has revolutionised orthodontic care, offering removable, transparent trays that gently guide teeth into position. In Melbourne, two leading names are Invisalign® and Spark. Invisalign®: For a full course (usually 18 to 24 months), the cost of Invisalign® generally starts around $7,000 depending on your specific needs. This includes all planning, digital imaging, and adjustments. Spark Aligners: Comparable to Invisalign®, Spark uses advanced TruGEN material and provides a similar range of transparent, custom aligners. Spark aligner costs typically start from $7,000, depending on complexity and treatment length. Shorter treatment programs or minor cosmetic adjustments can cost less, but most comprehensive treatments fall within this full-course range. What’s Included in the Cost of Orthodontic Treatment? When comparing orthodontic treatment costs, it’s important to look beyond the initial price. Different treatment fees may include different services, appointments and aftercare, so understanding exactly what’s covered can help you compare your options. At L&L Orthodontics, your treatment fee will be explained clearly before you decide whether to proceed. Depending on your individual treatment plan, your fee may include: Your braces or clear aligners and the appliances required as part of your treatment Specialist orthodontic treatment planning based on your teeth, bite and individual treatment needs Scheduled treatment appointments with our clinical team throughout your orthodontic treatment Dental Monitoring, allowing our team to review your treatment between in-clinic appointments Retainers and aftercare as outlined in your treatment plan Ongoing clinical support if you have questions or concerns during treatment Your initial orthodontic consultation is charged separately at $120 and includes a clinical assessment, digital imaging and diagnostic X-rays. Following your assessment, we’ll provide your recommended treatment options and a clear breakdown of the associated fees, including anything that may incur an additional cost. When comparing quotes from different orthodontic providers, check what’s included in the total treatment fee rather than comparing the headline price alone. Payment Plans and Making Braces Affordable Many Melbourne clinics, including L&L Orthodontics, offer interest-free payment plans to spread treatment costs into manageable installments. Plans are flexible, customisable and designed to make a straight, healthy smile accessible for all families. Discuss your options before starting, and ask about timing, deposit amounts, and inclusions. With the right plan, premium braces or advanced aligners become more affordable. What Should You Compare When Looking at Orthodontic Costs? If you’re comparing orthodontic fees, don’t look at the headline price alone. Different treatment quotes may include different services. Check: Who will diagnose and plan your treatment What type of braces or aligners are included What’s included in your treatment fee Whether retainers are included How your treatment will be monitored What payment options are available This can help you make a more meaningful comparison between treatment options and providers. Understanding Your Orthodontic Treatment Costs The cost of braces or clear aligners will depend on your individual orthodontic needs and the treatment recommended for you. The best way to understand your options and exact treatment fee is to have your teeth and bite assessed by an orthodontist. At L&L Orthodontics, we’ll explain your recommended treatment options, costs, what’s included and available payment options before you decide whether to proceed. Book an orthodontic consultation with one of our Specialist Orthodontists at our Melbourne CBD or Templestowe clinic. Treatment suitability, costs and treatment times vary depending on individual needs. A clinical
Can I Wear Braces and Still Play a Musical Instrument?
Yes! Let’s keep the music going – braces and all! If you’ve recently started your orthodontic journey and love playing a musical instrument, you might be wondering: Will my braces get in the way? The good news is, while there might be a short adjustment period, most musicians quickly adapt and keep hitting the right notes without any problems. At L&L Orthodontics, we believe nothing should get in the way of your passion for music. Whether you’re a brass player, a woodwind enthusiast, or a string performer, here’s what you need to know to help keep playing confidently with braces. Dr Sarah Lawrence, Specialist Orthodontist at L&L Orthodontics shares “We see so many teenagers where music is a big part of their school and personal life and this can be an initial concern as they don’t want to give up what they love during treatment. The good news is that you don’t have to!” Will Braces Affect My Playing? The answer? Maybe a little at first, but it won’t last long. The impact of braces depends on the type of instrument you play and like with all new things, you learn to adapt: Brass instruments (like the trumpet, trombone, or tuba): You’ll feel the biggest adjustment here, as these instruments involve direct lip pressure against a mouthpiece. But don’t worry your embouchure (a fancy word for mouth position) will adapt with a little practice. Orthodontic wax can also help cushion brackets and ease any irritation. Woodwind instruments (like the clarinet, flute, or saxophone): Woodwind players may notice mild pressure or discomfort in the beginning, but most find the transition fairly smooth. String instruments (like the violin or viola): You’re in luck! braces won’t interfere with your playing technique. You might feel a little facial tension at first, but this usually fades quickly. Piano, Drums & Percussion: We are happy to tell you that of course braces should not affect your instrument playing 5 Top Tips for Playing Musical Instruments with Braces Here’s how to help stay comfortable and confident while you play: Use Orthodontic Wax Protect your lips and cheeks from irritation by applying wax to any brackets causing discomfort, especially helpful for brass players. Adjust Your Mouth Position Give yourself time to find a new mouth position that feels comfortable. Practice will help retrain your muscles and improve endurance. Take Breaks When Needed Your mouth may feel a little sore after getting braces or following adjustments. Take regular breaks and ease back into longer sessions gradually. Stay Hydrated Dryness can increase discomfort, so drink plenty of water, especially during long rehearsals or performances. Talk to Your Orthodontist If you’re experiencing ongoing discomfort while playing your instrument, let us know. Our Specialist Orthodontists and clinical team can provide advice based on your braces and the instrument you play. If you’re an existing L&L patient, the easiest way to get in touch is through the Dental Monitoring app, where you can contact our clinical team directly. In Summary: Yes, You Can Play an Instrument with Braces Braces don’t have to stop you from doing what you love. It may take a little time to adjust to playing with braces, particularly if you play a wind or brass instrument, but your orthodontic team can provide advice to help you adapt. If you play an instrument and are considering braces, book a consultation with L&L Orthodontics. Let us know what you play, and we can discuss this as part of planning your treatment. Consultation required to assess eligibility. Our orthodontists will advise whether treatment is suitable for you.
7 Essential Tips for Looking After Your Braces
Whether you have traditional metal braces or LightForce 3D Braces, knowing how to care for your braces can help you look after your teeth, gums and orthodontic appliance throughout treatment. From brushing around your brackets to choosing braces-friendly foods and knowing what to do if something breaks, a few everyday habits can make braces easier to manage. Here are seven practical tips from the L&L team. 1. Brush After Every Meal Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Angle the brush around each bracket and wire to remove trapped food, and take your time to clean every surface of every tooth. A gentle but thorough brushing technique helps prevent plaque build-up and keeps your gums healthy. 2. Don’t Skip Flossing Daily flossing is especially important when you have braces. Super floss, orthodontic flossers or a water flosser can make it easier to clean around brackets and underneath the wires. Your gums will thank you. Interdental brushes are also great for reaching in between larger gaps and between brackets. 3. Be Mindful of What You Eat Hard, sticky, crunchy or chewy foods can damage your braces. Avoid things like popcorn, nuts, hard lollies and toffees. For firmer foods, like apples, carrots or crusty bread, cut them into bite-sized pieces before eating to avoid bending wires or dislodging brackets. 4. Use Orthodontic Wax for Comfort It’s common for brackets or wires to occasionally irritate the inside of your cheeks or lips, particularly while you’re getting used to your braces. Orthodontic wax can create a temporary barrier over the area that’s causing irritation. Dry the bracket or wire first, then mould a small piece of wax over it. If irritation continues or you have a wire that’s poking or causing discomfort, contact our clinical team for advice. 5. Let Us Know If Something Breaks Broken brackets and damaged or poking wires can happen during braces treatment. If something doesn’t feel right, contact us through the Dental Monitoring app and let us know what’s happened. Depending on the issue and where you are in your treatment, our clinical team can advise what to do next and whether you need an appointment. It’s also important to follow any instructions you’ve been given about elastic wear, Dental Monitoring scans and scheduled appointments, as these all form part of your individual treatment plan. 6. Keep Up with Routine Dental Care Your orthodontic appointments don’t replace your regular dental check-ups. Your dentist continues to look after your general oral health throughout orthodontic treatment, including checking your teeth and gums. Continue attending check-ups and cleans at the intervals recommended by your dentist. 7. Wear a Mouthguard for Sport If you play contact or high-impact sport, wearing an appropriate mouthguard can help protect your teeth and mouth from injury. When you have braces, your mouthguard needs to fit over your brackets and wires while allowing room for your teeth to move throughout treatment. Because your teeth change position, it’s also important to check the fit regularly. L&L Orthodontics stocks NeoMorph mouthguards, which are designed for use during orthodontic treatment. If you’re unsure which type of mouthguard you need, ask our clinical team for advice. Need Help Looking After Your Braces? Getting used to braces takes a little time, and you don’t need to figure everything out on your own. If you’re an L&L patient and you’re unsure about cleaning around your braces, something has broken or your braces don’t feel right, contact our clinical team through Dental Monitoring. For more detailed advice on brushing, flossing and looking after your teeth during treatment, read our Ultimate Guide to Oral Hygiene During Orthodontic Treatment.
5 Common Braces Myths: What You Need to Know
If you’re considering braces, you’ve probably heard plenty of advice about what treatment is really like. Do braces hurt? Will you have to give up your favourite foods? Are braces only for teenagers? There are plenty of myths about braces, so we’re clearing up five of the most common and explaining what you can actually expect during orthodontic treatment. Myth #1: Braces Are Only For Kids Truth: Braces are for anyone who wants a healthier, straighter smile. There isn’t a set upper age limit for braces. Adults may consider orthodontic treatment for a range of reasons, including crowding, spacing, bite concerns or teeth that have shifted over time. Whether braces are suitable will depend on factors such as your teeth, bite, gums and general oral health. Your orthodontist can assess these before recommending treatment. Myth #2: Braces Will Hurt All the Time Truth: Some discomfort can occur, but it usually isn’t constant. It’s normal to experience some pressure or tenderness when your braces are first fitted and after certain adjustments. How this feels and how long it lasts can vary from person to person. Your cheeks and lips may also need some time to adjust to the brackets and wires. Orthodontic wax can help if an area feels irritated, and our clinical team can provide advice if you’re uncomfortable or something doesn’t feel right. Myth #3: You Can’t Eat Normally with Braces Truth: You’ll need to make some changes, but there are still plenty of foods you can enjoy. Hard, sticky or very chewy foods can damage brackets and wires, so you’ll need to avoid or modify some foods during treatment. Other foods can often be made more braces-friendly. For example, cut apples and raw carrots into smaller pieces rather than biting straight into them, and remove corn from the cob before eating it. If your teeth feel tender after an adjustment, softer foods may also feel more comfortable for a short time. We’ll explain how to eat with braces when you get them fitted, however you can also find more in our guide to eating with braces. Myth #4: Braces Take Forever Truth: There isn’t one treatment timeframe that applies to everyone. How long you need braces depends on your individual treatment plan, including the tooth movements required and the complexity of your orthodontic needs. Many braces treatments may take around 18–24 months, but individual treatment times vary. Your orthodontist will discuss your estimated treatment timeframe before you start. Your treatment may also be adjusted over time depending on how your teeth respond. Myth #5: Braces Will Damage My Teeth Truth: Braces themselves don’t automatically damage your teeth, but cleaning around brackets and wires requires extra care. Plaque and food can collect around fixed orthodontic appliances, which can increase the risk of tooth decay, gum problems and enamel changes if oral hygiene isn’t maintained. Brushing thoroughly, cleaning between your teeth and continuing regular dental check-ups are important throughout treatment. For more advice, read our Ultimate Guide to Oral Hygiene During Orthodontic Treatment. Looking After Your Braces Braces can take a little time to get used to, but a few everyday habits can help you look after your teeth and orthodontic appliance throughout treatment. Brush carefully around your brackets and wires, clean between your teeth every day and follow your orthodontist’s advice about foods to avoid. If you play contact or high-impact sport, ask your orthodontic team about an appropriate mouthguard. For more practical advice, read our 7 Essential Tips for Looking After Your Braces. Still Have Questions About Braces? There are plenty of myths about braces, but understanding what treatment actually involves can make it easier to know what to expect. If you’re considering braces, an orthodontic consultation gives you the opportunity to have your teeth and bite assessed, discuss your treatment options and ask any questions you have before deciding whether to proceed. Book an orthodontic consultation with one of our Specialist Orthodontists at our Melbourne CBD or Templestowe clinic. Individual treatment needs, experiences and treatment times vary. A clinical assessment is required to determine which orthodontic treatment options may be suitable for you.