Berwick

Business Hours

Monday

8:30am
-
5:30pm

Tuesday

8:30am
-
5:30pm

Wednesday

8:30am
-
5:30pm

Thursday

8:30am
-
5:30pm

Friday

8:30am
-
5:30pm
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Surgical Treatments

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03 9330 0702

Frequently Asked Questions

Genioplasty, or chin surgery, is a procedure that aims to improve the appearance and balance of the chin through bone reshaping or repositioning. It can be done using techniques such as sliding genioplasty or chin implants. It addresses concerns like weak or prominent chins, asymmetry, or misalignment. Consulting with a qualified medical professional is essential to understand the procedure and its potential risks and benefits.

The prevalence of a gummy smile can vary among different populations and is influenced by various factors. While it’s not considered extremely rare, it’s not as common as a typical smile either.

Estimates suggest that approximately 7–14% of the population may have a gummy smile to some degree. The condition can range from mild to severe, with varying levels of gum visibility when smiling. Some individuals may have a gummy smile due to genetic factors, while others may develop it as a result of dental or skeletal issues.

It’s essential to note that the perception of a gummy smile can be subjective, and cultural norms and individual preferences also play a role in how a gummy smile is perceived. Some people may embrace their gummy smile, while others may seek treatment to reduce gum visibility and achieve a more balanced smile.

If you are concerned about your smile or have a gummy smile that bothers you, it’s best to consult with a qualified dentist or orthodontist. They can assess your specific case and recommend appropriate treatment options if necessary.

Genioplasty can benefit individuals who have concerns such as a weak or receding chin, a protruding chin, chin asymmetry, chin misalignment, or those seeking overall facial harmony.

To fix maxillary deficiency, treatment options may include orthodontic intervention with braces or aligners, maxillary expansion to widen the upper jaw, or orthognathic surgery to reposition the jaw. The specific approach depends on the severity of the deficiency and individual factors. Consulting a dental or surgical professional is essential for proper evaluation and treatment planning.

Possible reasons for a gummy smile are diverse. It may be triggered by an upper lip that is either too short or excessively movable, causing it to rest higher than usual during smiles. Another contributing factor is a condition called vertical maxillary excess, where the upper jaw is too long, leading to the appearance of a gummy smile.

The recovery time for genioplasty varies, but most individuals can resume normal activities within two weeks. Swelling and bruising typically peak in the first few days and gradually subside over several weeks. Final results may take several months to become fully apparent. It’s important to follow post-operative instructions and attend follow-up appointments for proper healing.

You should contact your emergency orthodontist if you experience severe pain, injury to your mouth or face, or if any part of your orthodontic appliance breaks or comes loose, such as a dental braces wire or if a bracket breaks. At South East Orthodontics, your trusted orthodontist in Berwick, we understand that unexpected issues can arise, and we’re here to help. Whether it’s a protruding wire, a broken bracket, or any other urgent concern, don’t hesitate to contact our team. Prompt attention from our experienced orthodontists can prevent further complications and keep your treatment progressing smoothly.

If you’re experiencing severe pain or pressure from your braces, it’s important to take steps to relieve discomfort and protect your orthodontic progress. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, can help manage the pain. You can also try rinsing your mouth with warm salt water or applying orthodontic wax to brackets or wires that may be causing irritation. However, if the pain is intense or doesn’t improve, contact South East Orthodontics as soon as possible. Our team can assess the issue and provide the appropriate care or adjustments to ensure your treatment stays on track and you remain comfortable throughout the process.

If your braces are causing severe mouth sores, it’s important to seek relief and prevent further irritation. At South East Orthodontics, we understand that adjusting to braces can sometimes be uncomfortable, especially when brackets or wires rub against the inside of your mouth. To ease the discomfort, try using orthodontic wax to cover any areas of the braces that are irritating your cheeks or lips. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water several times a day can also help soothe sores and promote healing. Over-the-counter topical anaesthetics like Bonjela or Orajel can provide temporary pain relief. However, if the sores persist or become increasingly painful, we encourage you to contact South East Orthodontics so our team can assess the issue and make any necessary adjustments to your braces. Your comfort is a priority, and we’re here to help make your orthodontic journey as smooth as possible.