Jan 21, 2026

Your Smile Resolution: Starting Orthodontic Treatment In The New Year

A fresh calendar feels like a clean slate. If you have been putting off straightening your teeth or improving your bite, January is a great moment to prioritise your oral health and set a goal you will be proud of by this time next year. At Coombe Orthodontics, we make getting started simple with supportive consultations, flexible finance options, and modern treatments guided by a Specialist Orthodontist.

Why the New Year is a smart time to start

Momentum matters

Resolutions are easier to keep when you begin early. By starting in January, you can build consistent habits, align review appointments with your schedule, and see meaningful progress by mid year.

Maximise private health fund extras

Many private health funds reset annually. An early start helps you plan claims and, where appropriate, spread treatment stages across calendar years.

School and work routines

The first term often brings a steadier rhythm. This can make it easier to adapt to aligner wear time or braces adjustments.

More time for results

Beginning now means more months this year for gentle, steady tooth movement. You might reach a key milestone before major events or be well on your way by the next holiday season.

Your first steps to getting braces or aligners

Book a consultation

No referral is needed. Your initial visit with a Specialist Orthodontist includes a clinical assessment of your teeth, bite and jaw function. We use digital tools such as iTero 3D scanning to map your smile and show potential outcomes.

Discuss goals and options

We talk through your priorities, lifestyle and any concerns. Depending on your case, options may include braces, Invisalign® or Angel Aligners.

Receive a personalised plan

Your plan outlines recommended appliances, expected timelines and any preparatory steps, such as dental hygiene visits if needed.

Get a clear quote

Always ask what is included in your quote, such as scans, refinements, retainers and remote monitoring. This helps you compare value accurately.

Choose a start date

Same day starts may be available for eligible cases. If you prefer a later date, we will schedule to suit your commitments.

What to expect at your first consultation

A calm, informative appointment sets you up for success. Here is what typically happens:

Warm welcome and history

We listen to your concerns, previous dental treatment and goals.

Digital records

iTero 3D scans provide precise images without messy impressions. Photos and, if required, X rays may be taken to evaluate tooth roots and jaw relationships.

Bite and jaw review

Your Specialist Orthodontist assesses crowding, spacing, bite contact, jaw movement and any TMJ symptoms.

Treatment conversation

You will receive clear explanations in plain language, including the pros and cons of each option, approximate timeframes and day to day care.

Finance and scheduling

We guide you through payment plans and appointment timing. Before or after school appointments may be available, and we offer free onsite parking in Wahroonga and Toukley.

You should leave with a written summary or quote and clear answers to your questions. There is no pressure to decide on the day.

Your treatment choices, explained simply

Braces

A reliable option for all complexities. Choices include ceramic braces that blend with tooth colour and self ligating systems designed for smooth adjustments.

Invisalign®

Removable, near invisible aligners planned with 3D scans. Many adults and teens like the flexibility to remove trays for meals and brushing. Remote monitoring via the DentalMonitoring app can reduce in clinic visits for suitable cases.

Angel Aligners

A dual stage aligner system that alternates seven gentler days and three stiffer days to balance comfort with effective tooth movement. Like other clear aligners, they are discreet and work best when worn as directed.

Your Specialist Orthodontist will recommend the approach that best fits your bite, goals and routine.

How payment plans work at Coombe Orthodontics

We believe finances should not be a barrier to a healthier smile. Coombe Orthodontics offers flexible 0% interest payment plan options, with example payments from around $75 per week, subject to clinical assessment and finance approval. Your exact payments depend on treatment complexity, duration and inclusions.

At your consultation, ask for a written quote that clearly lists what is included, such as scans, refinements, retainers and remote monitoring, so you can plan confidently and compare like for like.

If you have private health extras, our team can also help you understand how your benefits apply and how to time treatment stages within your fund year.

New patient checklist for a smooth start

Confirm your goals

Straighter teeth, bite correction or both. Share any deadlines, such as weddings or school formals.

Bring dental records

Recent X rays or dentist reports can help. If you do not have them, we can arrange what is needed.

Ask about inclusions

Ensure your written quote lists scans, refinements, retainers and remote monitoring if applicable.

Discuss lifestyle fit

Tell us about sport, music or public facing work so your plan matches your routine. We can advise on mouthguards and appointment timing.

Plan your first month

Set reminders for aligner wear time or elastic changes, stock up on orthodontic wax, and add review dates to your calendar.

Understand care basics

Remove aligners for meals, brush or rinse before reseating, brush after eating where possible, floss daily and use a fluoride mouthrinse. For braces, avoid very hard or sticky foods and use wax for any rubbing.

Save our contact details

Call promptly if something breaks or goes missing. For aligners, keep your previous set as a backup.

Small habits that add up

Wear aligners as prescribed, usually 22 hours per day, and set phone reminders during the first few weeks.

Keep a travel kit with a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, wax and a hard case for aligners or retainers.

Use the DentalMonitoring app if offered, so your clinician can review progress between visits and guide next steps.

Ready to begin your smile resolution?

Starting in January gives you time, structure and momentum. With a supportive team, modern tools like iTero 3D scans and remote monitoring, and flexible 0% interest options, your plan can fit your life rather than the other way around.

When you are ready, book your consultation with Dr Coombe at Coombe Orthodontics. We will answer your questions, map out a tailored plan and help you turn your New Year commitment into a confident, healthy smile by this time next year.