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Dr. Chou completed her Bachelor of Dental Science Degree at the University of Melbourne in 1995. She then worked as a general dental practitioner for 2 years prior to completing her 3 year specialist training and attaining her Master of Dental Science (Orthodontics) Degree in 2000.
Dr. Chou decided to become an orthodontist because she enjoys the ongoing nature of the specialty, working with both adults and children. She also finds it very rewarding to be able to observe growth and development in children and teenagers over time.
Orthodontists are specialist dentists who limit their practice exclusively to providing orthodontic care. The treatment may involve the use of corrective appliances (e.g. braces, plates, functional appliances and headgear) to bring teeth and jaws into proper alignment.
Orthodontic Care, Million-Dollar Smiles, Jaw surgery, Hygiene, early treatment
The majority of patients still have metal braces with different coloured "rubber rings". However, there are less visible braces (clear braces) available.
Retainers (plates) are fitted after braces are removed to hold teeth in their corrected positions until the teeth are stabilised. There will be a period of full-time retainer wear followed by night-time wear. The night-time wear can prevent maturational shifting of teeth as the patient's age.
The total duration of treatment ranges from 18 months to 36 months, depending on the presenting problems and age of patients. Every individual also responds differently to treatment, resulting in variation in treatment duration. Patient co-operation is also a major determining factor.
No, there is no need for a referral. You can contact the orthodontist directly.
It is normal to experience some discomfort for 3 - 5 days after the braces are first placed. Soft food is advised as well as over the counter pain relievers. If any ulceration (sores) occurs, relief wax may be applied to the braces and some topical gel, e.g. Bonjela may be used on the sores.
During the first visit, the patient is examined clinically. Some records such as plaster models of the teeth, photographs of the teeth and face and X-rays of the teeth and jaw may also be taken. This will enable the orthodontist to formulate a treatment plan and discuss treatment options.
Orthodontic emergencies occur occasionally and they are normally quite simple to fix: *Potential emergencies - discomfort/irritation of lips or cheeks - relief wax may be applied to the braces, *Loose brackets - relief wax may be applied to loose brackets or they may need to be taken off and the patient should notify us, *Protruding wire - to apply relief wax and the patient should notify us, *If wax is not helping and patient is not able to see us soon, the wire may be clipped.
