Rapid Teeth Alignment: Orthodontics or Veneers?

Ask a question!

Presenters

Dr Peter Norton BDS (Adel)

Dr Norton graduated from the University of Adelaide in 2004 where he was admitted to the Dean’s List and received academic prizes in Prosthodontics and Dental Clinical Practice.

Peter currently divides his time between rural and metropolitan practices,  He is a regular host, interviewer and moderator for digital CPD events and is a clinical media advisor to the Australian Dental Association.  When not practicing dentistry – Peter enjoys social tennis and volleyball.

Dr Nour Tarraf BDS(Hons), MDSc(Hons), PhD, MOrth RCSEd, MRACDS (Ortho)

Dr Nour Tarraf, a registered Orthodontist, is involved in research and teaching at the University of Sydney. He has a special interest in invisible orthodontic techniques such as lingual orthodontics and Invisalign. He also has a keen interest in the clinical applications of temporary anchorage devices (TADs) and is currently working towards a PhD on the application of skeletal anchorage in growth modification for growing children.

Dr Murray Thomas B.D.Sc. (QLD). Chair, Dental Board of Australia

Murray works full-time as a dentist in private practice in Canberra. He graduated from Queensland University witha Bachelor of Dental Science in 1977 and a Diploma in Dental Health in 1984.  Murray has held positions in health practitioner regulation since 2005 and was appointed Chair of the Dental Board of Australia in 2018.  Murray held senior positions in the Australian Regular Army, the Australian Dental Council and the Australian Dental Association. He continues his involvement with the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care.  He has served on the ACT Clinical Council and worked closely with the Capital Health Network (ACT).

Synopsis

In recent years there has been an increased demand for cosmetic dental procedures. More and more adults and adolescents are seeking aesthetic improvement of the alignment of their teeth, and everyone wants fast results.  An alternative to having orthodontic treatment is the use of veneers to camouflage the malalignment of the front teeth. This approach has gained popularity due to the rapid results it can provide. However, in many cases this involves a compromise in aesthetics, access for hygiene, and even tooth vitality.  In many cases the justification for the veneers approach is that the patient does not wish to undergo orthodontic treatment for two years. But is the “two years of orthodontics” assumption necessarily true? And is such an approach defensible to AHPRA if a complaint is made against a practitioner?

This event will discuss various aspects of the orthodontic and veneers treatment approaches. What are indications, contraindications, and limitations of both? What should be discussed during the consent process? What are the current orthodontic options available for rapid tooth alignment, and is there a middle ground to achieve optimal results for patients in terms of efficiency, quality, and longevity?

Resources