Create a smile you'll love for life with personalised orthodontic care that's tailored to you. Using advanced technology and proven techniques, we're here to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile at every stage of life.
We understand that orthodontic treatment can seem like a big decision so we've put together some answers to your frequently asked questions.
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed dental school and has undertaken an additional 3 year full-time postgraduate additional training after dental school to become an expert in aligning teeth, correcting bites, and enhancing smiles.
You do not need a referral to see an orthodontist. While some individuals are referred by their general dentist, it is common for patients to directly seek an orthodontist on their own. An orthodontist will often liaise and collaborate with your general dentist to ensure that your general dental needs are looked after while you are undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Orthodontic treatment can begin at any age, but an early assessment (7-9 years) can help identify and address potential issues while a child’s jaw is still growing. However, age is not a barrier to orthodontic treatment. Adults can still benefit from having straighter teeth, a more aesthetic smile and improved oral health.
The duration of orthodontic treatment varies based on the individual case’s complexity, the chosen treatment method and also patient compliance. On average, treatment can last anywhere from 1 to 2.5 years. We will provide an estimate during your consultation.
Common orthodontic issues include overcrowding (lack of space for teeth), overbite (upper teeth extend over lower teeth), underbite (lower teeth protrude beyond upper teeth), and crossbite (misalignment of upper and lower teeth). These issues can result in difficulty cleaning teeth, increased risk of tooth decay and gum problems, uneven wear on teeth, jaw pain, and compromised aesthetics.
We understand that the cost of dental treatment is an important consideration. At ARC Orthodontic Specialists, we offer flexible payment plans to accommodate various budgets. Additionally, we can discuss insurance coverage and explore financing options to ensure that achieving a confident, healthy smile is financially feasible for our patients.
Yes, we provide upper and lower fixed retainers as well as removable night time retainers. Your initial retainers are included in your treatment plan. If you need a replacement later, we will provide a clear breakdown of costs and available options.
You avoid smiling in photos because you're self-conscious about your teeth.
You're concerned your child's teeth or bite may need attention.
You've been thinking about orthodontic treatment but aren't sure where to start.
Don't worry, we can help!

Braces
Braces are a tried and true orthodontic appliance that can reliably correct complex dental malocclusions. They can efficiently straighten crooked and crowded teeth, correct bite issues and produce an aesthetic smile. We offer both traditional metal braces and the more discreet ceramic braces.

Clear Aligner
Clear aligner treatment involves the use of a sequence of clear, custom designed and fabricated, removable plastic trays to straighten teeth and correct bite problems. They are an aesthetic alternative to braces and transform smiles without the noticeable appearance of metal brackets and wires

Child Orthodontics
Intercept problems early to reduce future costs & burden. Early interceptive orthodontic treatment or phase 1 orthodontic treatment aims at correcting specific orthodontic issues in children at a younger age, typically between 6 and 10 years old. At this stage, a child’s jaw and facial bones are still developing, and so treatment can help prevent more serious issues from developing further.

Teen Orthodontics
Teenage or adolescent orthodontics refers to treatment that is tailored to individuals aged between 12 and 18. This age range is often considered an optimal time for orthodontic intervention due to a combination of factors related to dental development, growth, and social considerations. Many orthodontic issues become more apparent and easier to correct during adolescence, making it a common time for individuals to undergo orthodontic treatment.

Adult Orthodontics
Orthodontics can be effective at any age. Adult orthodontics addresses the unique dental and orthodontic needs of grown-ups, providing them with the opportunity to achieve improved oral health, enhanced aesthetics, and overall well-being. While orthodontic treatment can be slightly different for adults due to mature bone structure, advances in orthodontic technology and techniques make it feasible and effective for people of all ages.

Surgical Orthodontics
Surgical orthodontics also known as orthognathic surgery or jaw surgery, involves the combination of orthodontic treatment with surgical procedures to correct severe jaw discrepancies, facial irregularities, and related bite problems. This type of treatment is used for cases where orthodontic treatment alone cannot effectively address the underlying problems due to the severity of the issues involving the jawbones and facial structure. This is a collaborative effort between orthodontists and oral and maxillofacial surgeons.
Dr Jonathan Lam is a specialist orthodontist committed to helping his patients achieve a healthy, functional and beautiful smile. He is thoughtful and passionate about his work and believes that a stunning smile leads to improved self-confidence and well-being. Above all, he always listens to the innate needs of his individual patients and embraces the latest advances in orthodontic technologies and techniques, in order to deliver exceptional care and true results.
Certified Member of the Australasian Orthodontic Board
Member of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons in the field of Orthodontics
Fellow of the Royal College of Dental Surgeons completing the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons’ primary examinations with commendations