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FAQs

  • What happens if I lose or damage an aligner?

    While it is rare, you may lose a set of aligners. Please call us immediately so we can give you instructions. This is urgent as your teeth are moving and we don’t want them going off track. Getting things back on track takes work and will usually mean your estimated finish date will be delayed and further charges may apply (From $595).

    If this occurs after Hours, please move back to your previous aligner. If for some reason you do not have your previous aligner, go to your next aligner and contact us through the dental monitoring app and/or email us at admin@clearsmilesorthodontics.com.au and let us know the following information:

    -What aligner you lost. (i.e upper 13)
    -How long you wore the aligner before losing it. (i.e 3 days full-time)
    -What aligner you moved onto (either the previous/next)

    Next, use your chewies more often. Each spot for 2 minutes, 3 times per day.

  • What do I do if I need more chewies?

    Call into the clinic, or contact us on 07 5593 3733 and we can arrange delivery

  • I have lost my spacers/separators, what do I need to do?

    If a spacer falls out, please call our office immediately on 55 933 733. In most cases they will need to be replaced immediately so that the space created does not close in between appointments.

    Things to avoid doing when you have spacers in:

    • Flossing between the teeth where the spacers are placed
    • Eating anything sticky, chewy, or nutty or too hard as these food textures may cause the spacers to fall out.

  • I forgot to wear my aligners. Will my aligners still fit?What should I do?

    Each situation is different and will depend on how long you've gone without wearing your aligners. If only for a short while, you should be okay, but you may feel slight discomfort as your teeth readjust. You may also experience a NO-GO notification from your latest or upcoming dental monitoring scan as the full movement in your current aligner set may not have been reached and therefore you are required to wear them for another couple of days. If for a prolonged period of time, please contact our office immediately for instructions.

  • I’ve missed a scan what do I do?

    If you are late, you will be alerted with notifications on the app until you take the required scan. Once you have submitted your overdue scan, your next scan will be moved backwards to match the required intervals prescribed by Dr Semaan. In effect, this will slow down the course of your treatment but overall not affect your treatment outcomes.

  • How long are orthodontic consultations?

    Please allow for up to an hour for new patient teen and adult consultations. New patient child (under 12) typically run for 30 mins.

  • How does Dr Semaan straighten teeth?

    Dr Semaan will determine the underlying cause of your orthodontic issues and create a customized treatment plan for the most effective and lasting results. Dr Semaan and his team are dedicated to creating the healthiest and most beautiful smiles in the most convenient, cost-effective, and cosmetic way possible.

  • What are Invisalign clear aligners made of?

    Invisalign aligners are made of a smooth, comfortable, BPA-free plastic that is scalloped to not irritate your cheeks and gums like some other clear aligner products and traditional metal braces do.

  • Am I too old for braces?

    Of course not! A good percentage of our patients are over the age of 21. Not only can braces align your bite and boost your confidence, straightening your teeth can greatly improve your oral health.

  • How do I clean and/or sanitise my clear aligners?

    The best way to keep clear aligners clean is to scrub them twice daily with a medium or firm bristled toothbrush under cold or warm (not hot) water. Ensure you scrub both the inside and outside of the aligners. If you have AlignerBright foam you can also use that in your aligners as it both whitens your smile and sanitises your aligners. If not you can soak them in either white (not brown) vinegar or Milton’s Solution (ie. diluted bleach 1 part and 9 parts water) used for disinfecting baby’s bottles.

  • A button has come off, what do I do?

    Stop wearing all elastics immediately so that your bite doesn’t move in the wrong direction. Continue wearing aligners full time so your teeth do not become crooked. Contact the office immediately on 07 5593 3733 so we can let you know what to do next.

  • I have lost or broken a retainer, what do I need to do?

    We want to keep your teeth straight and retention is the only way. There are a number of variables that determine whether this is an urgent situation or not. For example, if you have recently finished your Invisalign aligner treatment or had your braces have recently been removed, there is a greater chance that the teeth will shift and move if a retainer is not replaced relatively quickly. Also, certain types of tooth movements may have a greater tendency for relapse than others. For example, a space between the upper front teeth may have a greater tendency to reopen in some patients, so it may be important to replace the retainer sooner. If a patient has been out of braces for a long period of time, and the teeth are in a relatively stable position, the chance of significant shifting may be low.

    If you’re a part of the Clear Protect Club simply place an order for a replacement at no cost by contacting the office. All others know that an additional cost may be incurred for a replacement clear retainer.

  • Will I need Additional Aligners/ What are Additional Aligners?

    In some cases, Dr. Semaan will suggest mid-course or post-course treatment refinements. These typically involve Additional Aligners to help move your teeth to the desired position.

  • Can I change my scan frequency?

    No, you can’t change the frequency of your scans. This has been purposely set by Dr Semaan to ensure your treatment progresses exactly the way he designed it to. For some patients this means taking a scan every 4 days and others every 7 as required.

  • Where are the consultations at Clear Smiles?

    At our Clear Smiles Orthodontics clinic in Robina, Gold Coast. Click here for directions

  • Do I need a referral to see Dr Semaan?

    Nope. You don’t need a referral to visit Clear Smiles Orthodontics. Simply complete our smile assessment and schedule your free consultation online. Of course if you've been referred then that's a bonus. We have a section just for you on the same smile assessment.

  • Will my teeth hurt during Invisalign treatment?

    Much like the days after a good workout at the gym, most people experience some tooth soreness for a few days after wearing new aligners. This is perfectly normal. It is a sign that your aligners are working by moving your teeth into a straighter position. This soreness should gradually go away after the first few days of wearing new aligners.

  • Why would I choose Braces over Invisalign?

    Unlike removable appliances, braces can be a great option if you don’t want to keep track of aligners, removing and reinserting trays etc. Since they are glued to your teeth, they are always in and always working. This takes the pressure off you to remember to wear your appliance.

  • Can I eat and drink in my clear aligners?

    No and yes. We recommend you DO NOT eat with your aligners in. Remove your aligners to eat, rinsing them off with cool water and brush and your teeth when you’re finished eating to keep your aligners as clear as possible. You can drink cool water with your aligners in, but we recommend nothing else.

  • An attachment has come off, what do I do?

    Stay in the current aligners you are in and keep wearing them full-time. Follow instructions from Dental Monitoring, and contact us on 07 5593 3733 so we can let you know what to do next.

  • I need after hours help?

    For after hours problems, please first check and read through the issues and solutions provided on our emergencies page first and then refer to our current patient resources FAQ's to see if you can answer your question there. If you can't find relief, please text your urgent concern to 0402 407 114. If this results in an after hour office visit, charges may apply.

  • Stained aligners: If I have food residue (like blueberries, turmeric or pasta sauce) in my mouth when I put my aligners back in, can they become stained?

    Yes. That's why it's important to brush your teeth after every meal, before reinserting your aligners

  • What is a No-Go?

    A No-Go is an instruction you receive following a submitted scan. In every case you receive a No-Go instruction an explanation is given.

  • What happens during a consultation?

    Here’s what to expect during a consultation with Clear Smiles Orthodontics:

    • Scan & Plan- With 6000 images a second we build and model your smile so you can see the plan for yourself
    • All clinical procedures- Photos, measurements, and X-rays taken as necessary to accurately diagnose your orthodontic needs
    • An hour with an expert- Our treatment coordinators play an important role in your orthodontic treatment experience, & you have an hour to ask them any questions you have about treatment 
    • Your all inclusive treatment plan- You're presented with customised treatment options, your treatment cost & payment options, and an estimated treatment time all to allow you to make an informed decision about your teeth. You can even begin treatment on the same day. 
  • Why should I see Dr Semaan to straighten my teeth?

    Dr Semaan is a certified Specialist in Orthodontics and has the education and expertise to prevent, diagnose and treat malocclusion, or an improper bite. He can determine the underlying cause of your orthodontic issues and create a customised treatment plan for the most effective and lasting results. 

  • How long does Invisalign treatment take?

    The average treatment time is about the same as with traditional braces, but the actual length of treatment depends on the severity of your condition and can only be determined by Dr Semaan in your initial consultation.

    https://youtu.be/L-WNU3EXPPI
  • How much does treatment cost?

    Comprehensive treatment with Clear Smiles Orthodontics typically ranges between $7000-$9000. We also offer flexible payment plans starting from as little as $52 a week

  • Can I exercise with my clear aligners?

    The aligners will have no impact on your exercise regime. Take them out, keep them in, it’s up to you.

  • What do I do if one or more of my braces comes loose?

    Please contact the office immediately on 07 5593 3733 during business hours (8.00am to 5.00pm Mon-Fri) or for after hours support visit our emergencies page.

  • What happens after treatment is complete?

    Dr Semaan is serious about keeping your teeth straight, using industry leading techniques to ensure you smile for life; all patients are issued clear retainers and a bonded wire at the end of their treatment plan.

  • I dropped my aligners in an unsanitary place. Do I need to sterilize them after I clean them?

    It is very important to make sure your aligners are clean before placing them back in your mouth. Start, maintain, and end with good hygiene/ cleaning habits for best results.

  • I received a No-Go, why?

    You can receive a No-Go for a number of different reasons. We monitor your teeth closely and have protocols in place that alert our team of any irregularities from the scans you submit. This can include for hygiene purposes, unseats/gapping between your aligners and your teeth, a missing button/attachment and so on. Each time you receive a No-Go notification there will be some accompanying explanation and what to do next with it. If you’re ever unsure, reach out to the team through the app or call our office on 07 5593 3733

  • Why do I even need a consultation?
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eesZc4YGtj4

    Your smile is as unique as you are and that’s why at Clear Smiles Orthodontics Dr Semaan makes sure you’re given everything you need to make an informed decision about your teeth.

  • What's healthier about straight teeth?

    Straight teeth are easier to clean. Food is more likely to get stuck between crooked teeth. Proper alignment makes brushing and flossing more effective, leading to healthier gums. Misalignment can lead to uneven wear, gum disease, TMJ (temporomandibular joint) problems, and the buildup of bacteria associated with bigger problems, including heart disease. Don’t let misaligned teeth get in the way of a healthier you!

  • Do I have to wear Invisalign aligners all the time?

    Invisalign clear aligners are most effective when worn 20 to 22 hours per day and changed approximately every 1-2 weeks.

  • Can I use insurance to pay for treatment?

    If your private health fund provides orthodontic benefits you may be reimbursed directly from your health fund after beginning treatment. Bring your health fund card to your consultation and in most cases we can check for you. Otherwise here are the dental item numbers so you can check into it yourself: 825 – each aligner set. Enter this number twice: once for the upper and once for lower; 811 – retainers. Enter this number twice: once for the upper and once for lower.

  • Can I swim in my clear aligners?

    Imagine if you lived on the Gold Coast and couldn’t….good thing you don’t have to worry about that. Yes, you can swim with your aligners in

  • What to do when the wire breaks or becomes spiky?

    If broken please contact the office immediately on 07 5593 3733 during business hours (8.00am to 5.00pm Mon-Fri) or email admin@clearsmilesorthodontics.com.au outside business hours. If spikey, the brace relief wax we issued you at the start of your treatment can be placed on the end to reduce discomfort. 

  • How do I preserve my new smile after treatment?

    It’s simple. Wear your issued clear retainer at night and join the club; the Clear Protect Club.

    https://youtu.be/na4Xgl_-_T8
  • Aligner removal: our guide

    Start on one side of your mouth, using your fingertip on the inside of your back molar (furthermost back tooth) slowly pull the aligner from your molars/teeth.

    Do the same thing on the other side of your mouth before completely removing the aligner. A little bit each side before the whole thing!

    Once the aligner is free from the molars on both sides of your mouth, you should be able to slowly work your way forward, gently pulling the aligner away from your teeth with your fingertips.

  • I’m not receiving any dental monitoring notifications?

    Make sure you have enabled notifications through your settings. This should have been set up the first time you downloaded and opened the app but can be manually done by opening your dm app> click settings in the top left hand corner> click ‘Access notification settings’> select notifications and ensure allow notifications is switched on.

  • Are there any obligations to start treatment at this consultation?

    Obligations? No. Incentives? Yes. Ask about our same day start offer during your consultation

  • What are the benefits of orthodontics?

    -A great smile for life

    -Self–confidence can be boosted

    -Long -term dental health

    -Better function of the teeth and jaws

    -Easier cleaning

    -Can be of help to optimise other dental treatments 

  • Is Invisalign treatment as effective as traditional braces?

    Yes. When worn according to the prescription given by Dr Steven Semaan, one of Australia’s most experienced Invisalign-trained doctors, Invisalign treatment is just as effective.

  • Do you offer an affordable payment plan?

    Yes! We have flexible low deposit and 0% interest weekly/fortnightly/monthly payment options available over 24 months.

  • Can I play a musical instrument with my clear aligners?

    Yes. Just another example of the minimal impact Invisalign treatment has on your lifestyle- play away! 

  • I have developed an ulcer from the braces/wires, what should I do?

    Place wax on wire/braces that is causing the ulcer to allow it to heal and brace relief gel can give temporary relief. These items can be found in your start bag that was given when you had your braces bonded. If you are unable to find these items, contact our office and we can give you some more or you can try buying an alternative product like Bonjela/SM-33 found in supermarkets or chemists.  If the ulcer or discomfort does not improve then please send get in touch on 07 5593 3733 during business hours (8.00am to 5.00pm Mon-Fri) or email admin@clearsmilesorthodontics.com.au outside business hours.

  • What are the do's and do not's when it comes to clear aligner treatment?

    DO wear your aligners as prescribed by Dr Semaan for a minimum 22 hours per day

    DO use your chewies as instructed to ensure optimal aligner fit

    DO access your current patient resources available on our website 

    DO try changing your aligners at night, just before going to bed. That way your aligners can settle overnight and be much more comfortable in the morning. 

    DO NOT skip ahead to a new set of aligners without approval through your dental monitoring app

    DO NOT soak your aligners in mouthwash as these products can damage the surface of the aligner

    DO NOT drink anything other than cold water when wearing your aligners

    DO NOT eat with your aligners in

    DO NOT bite your aligners into position as you risk damaging them.

    DO NOT use any sharp objects to remove your aligners

    DO NOT assume that once you reach the end of your series that your treatment plan is complete. In many cases, we will order more aligners for final tweaks to get the smile just right DO NOT throw away any of your aligners

  • Can I whiten my teeth during treatment?

    If you would like to pursue whitening gel treatment while wearing aligners, first step is to discuss with your Dentist.

  • I’ve forgotten my password or username for my dental monitoring app

    You username is the email address you received the initial dental monitoring set up email to. Put your email address into the login screen and select ‘Forgot password.’ Should a password reset email fail to reach your inbox or your username is incorrect, contact the office on 07 5593 3733 or admin@clearsmilesorthodontics.com.au to enable us to get you back up and running.

  • Why choose Clear Smiles Orthodontics over other providers?

    Because we go beyond simply offering you a healthy, beautiful smile. With Dr Semaan, you get the health benefits of straight teeth – plus healthier gums, less risk of tooth decay, and premature wear – so you can improve your life with your smile!

  • What happens if I put off treatment?

    While you’re never too old for orthodontic treatment, the earlier we can get to work fixing certain problems, the simpler and speedier the process will be. In some cases, putting treatment off will mean you require jaw surgery or extractions as an adult.

  • Does Dr Semaan exclusively use Invisalign?

    The simple answer is no. Your smile deserves the very best and to ensure Dr Semaan has everything to create the healthiest and most beautiful smiles possible in the most comfortable, cost effective, and cosmetic way, Clear Smiles have access to a range of other great orthodontic appliances including Insignia and Damon braces

  • Can I pay off my payment plan early?

    Yes. Contact admin@clearsmilesorthodontics.com.au and we will help you process your payment early.

  • How do I keep track of when to change my aligners?

    You keep track using your Dental Monitoring companion app. Only change to the next step when you’re instructed to do so after taking a scan.

  • What to do if the ridge/hook your elastics connects to breaks?

    Stop wearing all elastics immediately so that your bite doesn’t move in the wrong direction and contact the office immediately on 07 5593 3733 during business hours (8.00am to 5.00pm Mon-Fri) or email admin@clearsmilesorthodontics.com.au outside business hours.

  • How to ensure you have the right aligner set:

    To ensure you have the correct aligner set, look for the engraved “U” for upper and “L” for lower, followed by the stage number i.e U (Upper) 02 N (2nd Aligner set)

  • How to achieve a crystal clear finish when cleaning your aligners:

    Having trouble getting your aligners to be crystal clear using a manual toothbrush? Dr. Steve recommends trying an electric tooth brush to clean them which he has tested and proven they will come up crystal clear.

  • Pro tips for avoiding rejected scans:
    • Brush your teeth sparkling clean before taking photos!
    • Wear your aligners for 22 hours a day
    • Use your chewy just before taking your scan
    • Ensure you are using your chewies three times per day for 2 minutes each time; biting down firmly between your two front teeth and the eye teeth on each side as well as areas that show a slight gap between your aligner and teeth.
  • How will I know if I need orthodontic treatment or not?

    That is what our free consultations are for! But, if you have crowded or crooked teeth, gaps between your teeth, an over or underbite, or your teeth don’t meet when you bite, you could benefit from orthodontic treatment.

  • How long is the typical treatment process?
    https://youtu.be/L-WNU3EXPPI
  • Why do I need attachments/buttons with my Invisalign aligners?

    The use of buttons/attachments is an important aspect of your treatment, with carefully considered placement allowing Dr Semaan to get the optimal turning force to straighten your teeth with greater control and accuracy.

    Some competitors might dismiss the need for attachments with clear aligner therapy and call them unsightly or uncomfortable. The truth is they don't have an on-site doctor or the monitoring capacity to manage the attachments correctly. 

  • Do you offer pay in full discounts?

    Yes we offer a 5% discount if you choose to pay your treatment plan in full.

  • How do I keep my aligners comfortable?

    In the early stages of your Invisalign* treatment, some aligners can cause irritation. This is perfectly normal as your mouth adjusts to the plastic. There are a few ways to help with this discomfort:

    1. Wax – you will find this in your starter kit. Dry the aligner in the area that is causing irritation and apply a small amount of wax to the area. Make sure you warm the wax with your hands before applying.
    2. Nail File - this will also be in your starter kit. File off any rough edges.
    3. Wear it – the longer you wear the aligners, the quicker your body will adapt and the discomfort will subside.

    *This product is not available for purchase by the general public. Always follow the directions for use.

  • How do I use my elastics?

    Wear elastics all the time except when brushing your teeth, unless instructed otherwise. Read our best practice tips below:

    • Change elastics once a day
    • Replace elastics if they break
    • Carry spares with you at all times
  • How to insert/ put in your aligners properly:

    DO handle one aligner at a time. Gently push the aligner over your front teeth, then apply equal pressure, using your fingertips, to the tops of your left and right back teeth until the aligner snaps into place. DO NOT bite your aligners into position as you risk damaging them.

  • Mouth-guards and Invisalign with sports. What you need to know:

    If you play a contact sport and are required to wear a mouth guard, we recommend you use boil and bite mouth guards which can be purchased from most chemists. These will be the best option for protecting your teeth as your teeth will continue to move during your treatment. Mould the mouthguard WITHOUT your aligners in. You can re mould the mouth guard once you feel it is no longer fitting. Remove your aligner and wear the mouth guard during sport then put your aligners back in.

  • Do I talk to Dr Semaan directly through the dental monitoring app?

    A dedicated dental monitoring team member typically acts as the liaison between you and Dr Semaan, who periodically reviews each case as and when needed. If you have any concerns about your treatment, reach out through your dental monitoring app and we’ll get the answers you need, or alternatively if you want to speak to Dr Semaan directly we can arrange that also, just contact our office on 07 5593 3733 or admin@clearsmilesorthodontics.com.au

  • How much does a consultation with Clear Smiles Orthodontics cost?

    Our consultations are gap free*. As one of the first orthodontists on the Gold Coast to offer free consultations, Dr Semaan continues to offer you an opportunity to discover your treatment options at no cost. 

    *Medicare card required otherwise a $100 charge will apply

  • At what age should my child see an orthodontist?
    https://youtu.be/BEzk6pFBkJc

    The Australian Society of Orthodontics recommends your child sees an orthodontics from the age of 7.

  • Why would I choose Invisalign over Braces?

    At Clear Smiles Orthodontics, Dr Semaan loves to share his many reasons for Invisalign Clear Aligners. Click here for 15 of them.

  • How do I manage my payments?

    Your payments will be managed through your Ezidebit account that is set up when you start your payment plan. We will authorise this for you and you will have access to all your scheduled payment dates. To update your payment schedule or payment details, you will need to contact admin@clearsmilesorthodontics.com.au.

  • When do I start seeing results?

    Typically you will start noticing movement straight away. Your compliance with following Dr Semaan’s instructions will determine the rate at which you progress through treatment.

  • What do I do if I need more elastics?

    Call into the clinic, or contact us on 07 5593 3733 and we can arrange delivery

  • How to remove/ take out your aligners:

    Handle one aligner at a time. Using your fingertips, start on one side at the back teeth and slowly work your way around to the other side, gently pulling them off your teeth.

    Your first couple of attempts should be difficult- that’s normal considering it’s not something we’d expect you to have done before. Be patient, find the spots that work for you, and if you’re using excessive force, chances are you’re doing it wrong.

  • What are the eating restrictions with an RPE (rapid palatal expander)?

    The patient will need to avoid hard, sticky, chewy and nutty foods as it can break or loosen the appliance.

  • I don’t understand the scanning and review process:

    Here’s how we break it down to keep it simple for you: You scan your current aligners that you have been wearing for the days leading up to the scan. Once you complete and submit the scan you are required to wear that same set until prompted by the app.

    • You scan the aligner set you've been wearing
    • You keep the same aligner set in until notified by the app
    • You'll either be prompted to move on or stay 
  • Orthodontic treatment options:
    https://youtu.be/9Gk0c3I9Mx0

    Dr Semaan gives you the run down from the 100 year old history of metal braces to today's preferred clear aligner therapy options.

  • What is crowding?
    https://youtu.be/a8IjwxDue28

    Dr Semaan explains what wrinkles have to do with your teeth and in the process disposes a myth.

  • Will I need attachments?

    Attachments are small-tooth colored composites bonded to your teeth to help achieve certain required movements. Dr. Semaan will decide whether attachments are required for your treatment.

  • What forms of payment are accepted?

    Ezidebit offers the following payment methods: Direct Debit, Real Time Credit Card Payments, BPAY, and Integrated payments within a software.

  • Should I keep my old aligners?

    Yes, we recommend you keep your aligners throughout treatment. Why? Because in some circumstances you may be required to go back to the previous aligner number in order to move on to the next one.

  • What are your top tips with wearing braces?
    1. Brush your teeth after every meal
    2. Use a mouthwash each time you clean your teeth to help clear plaque build up
    3. Floss once a day to remove any food that may have become stuck
    4. Do not eat hard, sticky or chewy food as this can damage your braces
    5. Avoid sugary drinks and acidic food as lots of sugar and acid in your diet can cause damage to the surface enamel on your teeth and may eventually lead to cavities.
    6. Make sure you have regular check ups with your general dentist
    7. Be committed to attending each appointment with Dr Semaan
  • How to properly store your aligners:

    Store your aligners in the case provided when they are not in your mouth. This protects them from loss and damage.

    DO keep all your previous aligners in a clean bag as Dr Semaan may ask that you temporarily go back a stage to get the optimal movement out of each set of aligners

    Keep out of reach of small children or pets.

  • What to expect when wearing a rapid palatal expander (RPE)

    Patients will experience some tooth sensitivity for the first 2-3 days of turning and the upper teeth will feel loose and tender. This is normal and a sign that the appliance is working. Over the counter pain medication can help. As with anything in your mouth, the amount of saliva will increase at first but it will settle down. Before long you won’t even know you are wearing it and it will feel strange when it is removed.

  • How to clean your aligners properly to avoid rejected scans:

    You should be brushing and flossing your teeth every night.Please make sure you are at least rinsing your mouth with water after meals before inserting your aligners back into your mouth. 

    Clean your aligners by using the medium toothbrush specifically given for your aligners and scrub both aligners every time you brush your teeth (do not use toothpaste). Take special care to ensure this is done during your night time routine in order to combat the plaque build up from that day.

    Areas to be cleaned: outside of the aligner, looking close at the joins between the teeth.Inside the aligners, looking at the surface which sits against the tooth PLUS inside the attachment wells.

  • What makes Clear Smiles Orthodontics different?

    At Clear Smiles Orthodontics you’re empowered to discover your treatment options, all of which are given with careful consideration to your smiles needs and your lifestyle choices. Dr Semaan and his team are dedicated to creating the healthiest and most beautiful smiles in the most convenient, cost-effective, and cosmetic way possible. 

  • What kind of training has Dr. Steven Semaan had?

    Dr Semaan obtained his Dental degree from Sydney University, Australia. He went on to obtain his Master of Dental Science in Orthodontics degree at the University of Western Australia. He then obtained a Postgraduate Diploma of Business at Bond University, Gold Coast, Australia during which time he started him up his own business – Clear Smiles Orthodontics.?

  • How long does treatment take with braces?

    Treatment time with Insignia is typically much faster than traditional braces. Your overall treatment time will depend on your specific orthodontic problem, how severe it is and which type of braces you opt for. In general, patients are in braces for 12 to 18 months compared to traditional braces that take up to 30 months.

  • Will wearing clear aligners affect my speech?

    Like all orthodontic treatments, the aligners may temporarily affect your speech, and you may have a slight lisp for several days. However, as your tongue gets used to having aligners in your mouth, any lisp or minor speech impediment caused by your aligners should disappear within a couple of weeks.

  • What if I have concerns about the way my teeth are moving or my treatment?

    If you have any concerns, at any stage during treatment, you can reach out to our team through the dental monitoring app, call the office on 07 5593 3733 or email admin@clearsmilesorthodontics.com.au.

  • How to treat mouth sores:

    Braces have a tendency to feel rough against the cheeks, lips, and tongue, especially soon after the braces are put on. This will sometimes lead to soreness and cause discomfort. The tissues will develop a callous over time, so this becomes less of a problem while treatment progresses. In the initial stages of treatment, wax can be used in areas that are particularly painful. However, limiting the use of wax will help you or your child build up the callus tissues. Temporary pain relief can also be obtained with topical anaesthetics like the brace relief gel provided at the beginning of treatment. For any minor cuts or sores on the lips, cheeks or tongue, rinse your mouth with a mixture of warm water and a teaspoon of salt.

  • My teeth are in pain/very sensitive/sore, is that normal?

    Putting pressure on the teeth means soreness. This soreness can be pronounced during the first few days after putting in a fresh set of aligners. This is normal. It is a sign that the aligners are working and moving your teeth. It eventually wanes, and we recommend you can follow these steps to make treatment as comfortable as possible:

    1. Wax – you will find this in your starter kit. Dry the aligner in the area that is causing irritation and apply a small amount of wax to the area. Make sure you warm the wax with your hands before applying.
    2. Nail File - this will also be in your starter kit. File off any rough edges.
    3. Wear it – the longer you wear the aligners, the quicker your body will adapt and the discomfort will subside
    4. Use over the counter pain medication

    If you find no relief after 5 days, contact us for your next steps.

  • Will a rapid palatal expander affect my speech?

    It will take a few weeks for your tongue to adjust and your speech to adapt to the foreign object in your mouth. Reading out loud and doing tongue twisters can help you adapt faster. Try Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers

  • What is remote monitoring?
    https://youtu.be/JhK7roHYmxU

    Fewer orthodontic appointments with more accurate results? Sounds too good to be true! Check out Clear Smiles Orthodontics remote monitoring services.

  • What is the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?

    Both a dentist and an orthodontist will have qualified with a dental degree, but only an orthodontist has gone on to pursue further postgraduate study, usually two to three years, to specialise in the field of orthodontics. 

  • Can you list what services you offer?

    Sure, at Clear Smiles Orthodontics we offer:

  • How often do I need to come in for appointments when I have braces?

    Appointments are held at regular intervals four to eight weeks apart so that Dr.Semaan can adjust your braces and check your progress. These appointments generally take between 20 and 40 minutes depending on your needs.

  • Can I chew gum while wearing the clear aligners?

    No. Gum will stick to the aligners. We recommend removing the aligners for all snacks and meals.

  • Why do I need to see the dentist during treatment, can’t you do what they do for me?

    Don't get confused. We straighten your teeth, not clean them. No point straightening something that may not last! Go see your dentist regularly. We can refer you to some of our dental friends, just ask us at your next appointment or contact the office on 07 5593 3733 or email admin@clearsmilesorthodontics.com.au.

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