Orthodontics In Cape Town: Revolutionising Your Smile with OptiSmile

The cost of orthodontic treatment in South Africa is influenced by various factors. For a precise estimate tailored to your needs, direct consultation with OptiSmile is best. 

However, the table below provides a ballpark figure:

Orthodontics boasts a range of devices, both fixed and removable, all tailored to move teeth, adjust muscle dynamics, and guide the development of the jaws. These instruments achieve their results by delicately exerting force on teeth and jaws. However, the particular nature of your dental requirements will determine the ideal device choice.

Among the fixed orthodontic tools are:

• Braces: A traditional choice, these comprise bands, wires, and brackets. While effective, they’re often noticeable and can be uncomfortable.
• Special Fixed Appliances: Specifically designed to curb habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, these are anchored to teeth via bands.

As for the removable options:

• Aligners: Standing out amongst these is Invisalign. This system shifts teeth like braces without unsightly metal wires and brackets. Notably transparent, Invisalign aligners can be effortlessly removed during meals or for cleaning, making them a preferred choice at OptiSmile.
• Jaw Splints: Employed to correct and improve jaw closure, they can be fixed on either the upper or lower jaw.
• Lip and Cheek Bumpers: A solution to the unintentional pressure exerted by the cheeks and lips on the teeth, these bumpers offer relief and space.
• Palatal Expander: Designed to broaden the jaw’s arch, it consists of a plastic plate which, when set on the mouth’s roof, pushes the palate’s joints to expand.
• Removable Retainers: Post-orthodontic treatment ensures that teeth remain in their new, corrected positions.

At OptiSmile, while we understand and appreciate the vast arsenal of orthodontic tools available, we emphasise providing the most modern, practical, and comfortable solutions.

This is why Invisalign remains our top recommendation for those seeking an advanced, discreet, and efficient orthodontic journey.

When considering options for orthodontic treatment, patients often compare traditional braces and Invisalign to determine which method best suits their needs. Traditional braces consist of metal brackets and wires affixed to the teeth, which are highly effective for treating a wide range of orthodontic issues, including complex cases. These braces are fixed, meaning they stay in place throughout the treatment, reducing the risk of misplacement and ensuring consistent pressure on the teeth to guide them into the desired position. However, traditional braces can cause discomfort due to the metal components, which may irritate the inside of the mouth and require regular adjustments by an orthodontist. Additionally, they necessitate careful cleaning around the brackets and wires to prevent tooth decay and gum issues, and they impose dietary restrictions to avoid damaging the hardware.

In contrast, Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners that offer a more aesthetically pleasing alternative, as they are nearly invisible when worn. This makes Invisalign an attractive option for individuals who prefer a less noticeable treatment. The removable nature of Invisalign aligners allows for easier oral hygiene since patients can brush and floss normally, and there are no food restrictions as the aligners can be taken out during meals. Invisalign is generally more comfortable than traditional braces, as it lacks metal components that can cause irritation. However, Invisalign aligners must be worn for 20-22 hours a day and require diligent maintenance, including brushing after meals to prevent staining. While Invisalign is suitable for a wide range of orthodontic issues, it may not be as effective for the most complex cases, where traditional braces might be the better option. Invisalign also typically requires fewer office visits, saving time and potentially reducing overall treatment costs.