Braces in Southland and Queenstown
Modern, comfortable orthodontic care for all ages
Find your treatment option
Braces are a trusted, effective way to straighten teeth and improve bite alignment and modern orthodontic care has made them more comfortable and discreet than ever. At Embrace Orthodontics, we provide specialist braces treatment in Southland and Otago, tailored to children, teens, and adults at every stage of their smile journey.
Whether you’re exploring braces for your child or considering treatment for yourself, our friendly specialist team is here to guide you through every step with clarity, care, and confidence.
Why Choose Braces?
Braces remain one of the most precise orthodontic treatments available. They allow us to carefully guide each tooth into its ideal position, creating long-lasting, healthy results.
Braces can help with:
- Crooked or crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Bite issues such as overbite, underbite, or crossbite
- Jaw alignment and overall oral function
With today’s advanced materials and techniques, braces are smaller, smoother, and more comfortable than many people expect.
Types of Braces We Offer
At Embrace Orthodontics, we offer two types of braces so you can choose the option that best suits your needs, preferences, and lifestyle.
Metal Braces
Modern metal braces are far more compact and comfortable than traditional braces of the past. Small brackets are carefully bonded to the teeth and connected with a wire that gently moves teeth into position over time.
Metal braces are:
- Highly effective for complex cases
- Durable and reliable
- A popular choice for children and teens
- Customisable with coloured elastic ties for a bit of personality
Clear Braces
Clear braces are made from ceramic material designed to blend in with your natural teeth. They work in the same way as metal braces but offer a more discreet appearance.
Clear braces are:
- A popular option for teens and adults
- Subtle and tooth-coloured
- Just as effective as metal braces in many cases
During your consultation, we’ll help you decide which option is best for your smile goals.
What to Expect from Your Braces Journey
Your Consultation
You’ll meet one of our specialist orthodontists for a relaxed discussion about your smile goals. We’ll assess your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment, then talk through whether braces are the right option for you.
Your Personalised Plan
If you decide to proceed, we’ll take detailed records including photos, X-rays, and a 3D scan. This allows us to design a treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs.
Treatment and Ongoing Care
Once your braces are fitted, we’ll see you regularly to check progress and make gentle adjustments. Our team is always here to answer questions and keep your treatment on track.
Retention
After your braces are removed, retainers help maintain your results. Wearing them as advised ensures your smile stays beautifully aligned long term.
FAQs
Are braces painful?
Braces don’t usually cause sharp pain, but it is normal to feel tenderness or pressure after they are first fitted or adjusted. This is a sign that your teeth are moving. Discomfort is typically mild and lasts a few days before settling. Softer foods, orthodontic wax, and over-the-counter pain relief (if needed) can help during this short adjustment period.
How long will I need to wear braces?
Most patients wear braces for 12–24 months, depending on the complexity of the case, the type of tooth movements required, and how well appointments and care instructions are followed. Some minor treatments may be shorter, while more complex bite corrections can take longer.
Are braces just for kids and teens?
No. Braces are suitable for patients of all ages. Many adults choose braces because they are a reliable and effective way to correct alignment and bite issues that may not have been treated earlier or have relapsed over time.
What’s the difference between metal and clear braces?
Metal braces are the most durable and efficient option, using small stainless-steel brackets. Clear (ceramic) braces work the same way but use tooth-coloured brackets that are less noticeable. Ceramic braces are slightly more delicate and may require a little more care, but they are a popular aesthetic option for teens and adults.
How often will I need appointments?
Appointments are usually scheduled every 6–10 weeks so your orthodontist can adjust the braces, monitor progress, and make sure treatment is moving as planned.
How much do braces cost?
The cost of braces varies depending on how complex the treatment is and how long it will take. At your consultation, we provide a detailed treatment plan, full cost breakdown, and flexible payment options to help make treatment manageable.
What foods should I avoid?
If you are wearing braces, it’s important to avoid foods that could break brackets or bend wires. These include hard foods(like nuts, ice, and hard lollies), sticky foods (such as chewing gum, toffees, and caramels), and very crunchy foods (like popcorn or hard chips). Foods that require biting with the front teeth — like whole apples or crusty bread — should be cut into small pieces first.
Will I need to wear retainers after braces?
Yes. Retainers are a crucial part of treatment and are worn after braces are removed to keep teeth in their new positions. Without retainers, teeth can gradually shift over time.
Can I still play sports with braces?
Yes. You can safely play sports, but we strongly recommend wearing a remouldable mouthguard for contact or ball sports to protect your teeth, braces, and lips.