Orthodontic Treatment Terms & Conditions

The orthodontic consultation fee is R4,000 (opening special price — reverts to R4,400 after 15 July 2026) and includes: clinical examination, two extraoral X-rays, extraoral and intraoral photographs, professional cleaning, and comprehensive treatment plan.

Orthodontic treatment (braces) starts from R30,000, depending on the complexity of the case and treatment requirements.

The orthodontic treatment fee is payable over a period of 24 months in monthly instalments.

A non-refundable deposit of 15% is payable prior to the installation/fitting of braces.

I understand that orthodontic treatment using braces aims to improve the alignment of my teeth, bite, and overall oral health. I acknowledge that orthodontic treatment has limitations and risks, and that results may vary from patient to patient. No guarantee has been made regarding the final outcome. I voluntarily consent to orthodontic treatment.

I give permission for the dentist and dental team to take clinical photographs of my teeth and smile before, during, and after treatment. These photographs may be used for: clinical records, treatment planning, educational purposes, practice marketing and promotional materials (without revealing personal identity), and website and social media content (without revealing personal identity).

Orthodontic treatment time varies depending on the complexity of the case. Treatment duration may be influenced by: severity of crowding or spacing, jaw relationship, patient cooperation, missed appointments, broken brackets or appliances, and oral hygiene status. The dentist cannot guarantee or commit to a specific treatment duration.

Excellent oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment. Poor oral hygiene may result in: gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis), permanent white marks on teeth (decalcification), tooth decay, bad breath, and delays in treatment. Patients must brush at least twice daily, floss regularly, and follow all oral hygiene instructions provided.

Patients showing signs of poor oral hygiene such as bleeding gums, puffy or inflamed gums, visible plaque, or calculus (tartar) will be classified as high-risk patients. These patients will be required to undergo professional dental cleaning every 3 months during orthodontic treatment. Failure to comply may result in temporary suspension or termination of treatment.

Orthodontic treatment requires regular scheduled appointments. Missed appointments may delay treatment progress and extend overall treatment time. Missed appointments without sufficient notice may incur a penalty fee. Repeated missed appointments may result in termination of treatment.

Patients are responsible for taking care of their orthodontic appliances. Additional charges may apply for: lost brackets (R250 per bracket), broken and loose brackets (R150 per bracket), loose bands (R100 per band), lost appliances (depends on the appliance), and loss of orthodontic elastics (R100). Damage may prolong treatment and increase costs.

Certain dental procedures may be required before, during, and/or after orthodontic treatment and are not included in the orthodontic treatment fee. These procedures may include tooth extractions, frenectomy, gingivectomy, dental fillings, root canal treatment, crowns, bridges, veneers, and professional cleaning. These procedures will be charged separately.

After braces are placed or adjusted, patients may experience temporary discomfort, pressure, or tooth sensitivity. Other possible experiences include minor irritation of the cheeks or lips and difficulty chewing certain foods. These symptoms usually resolve within a few days.

Successful orthodontic treatment requires active cooperation from the patient. Patients must attend scheduled appointments, maintain good oral hygiene, follow dietary advice, and wear elastics or appliances as instructed. Failure to comply may extend treatment time or negatively affect treatment results.

In some patients, orthodontic tooth movement may result in shortening of the roots of the teeth, known as root resorption. This condition is usually mild and does not affect tooth function in most cases. However, in rare situations it may affect the long-term stability of the tooth. The dentist will monitor this during treatment.

After braces are removed, retainers are required to maintain the new position of the teeth. Retainers are not included in the braces fees and are payable before removing the braces. For non-growing patients (typically adults): a fixed retainer will initially be placed behind the teeth after braces are removed. After approximately 6 months, patients may transition to removable retainers as advised by the dentist. For growing patients (typically between 12 and 18 years): removable retainers will be prescribed until growth comes to an end, after which fixed retainers will be prescribed. Failure to wear retainers as instructed may result in relapse. Replacement retainers may incur additional costs.

Teeth naturally tend to shift throughout life, even after orthodontic treatment. Wearing retainers as instructed is essential to maintain the results. Failure to wear retainers may result in relapse that may require additional orthodontic treatment.

If oral hygiene is inadequate during orthodontic treatment, patients may develop permanent white marks or stains on the teeth known as decalcification. These marks may remain visible even after braces are removed. Good oral hygiene helps prevent this complication.

Occasionally, patients may experience orthodontic emergencies such as loose brackets, protruding wires, or broken appliances. Patients should contact the practice for advice or to schedule an appointment. Emergency visits may incur additional charges depending on the situation.

If a patient relocates or chooses to continue treatment with another dentist or orthodontist, the current dentist will provide treatment records if requested. Fees already paid are non-transferable. Additional treatment fees may be charged by the new provider.

Orthodontic treatment fees cover professional services, materials, and time invested during treatment. If treatment is discontinued before completion, fees already paid may not be refundable.

The dentist reserves the right to terminate orthodontic treatment if oral hygiene remains poor, appointments are repeatedly missed, the patient goes missing without explanation, instructions are not followed, or required payments are not maintained. If treatment is terminated, the patient may still be responsible for outstanding treatment fees.

The patient or guardian agrees to comply with the payment plan and financial policies of the practice. Failure to maintain payment arrangements may result in suspension or termination of treatment.