• Our Services

Severe crowding and lip strain

Severe crowding
Severe crowding and lip strain
Severe crowding and lip strain – treated with braces and premolar extractions to allow smile to be widened and lip strain to be reduced
Our Services

    We’re here to help

    send us your enquiry and our friendly team will get back to you.

    Get Appointment

    Contact Us

    We're here to help with anything from general enquiries to appointment scheduling. Reach out and our friendly team will be in touch.

    549 Dandenong Road, Malvern Victoria 3144

    Google Icon

    Dr Michael Woods is amazing very happy I found him after having incorrect work done on my teeth. Dr michael woods rectified the errors was honest and fair. Very blessed to have met.

    Suzie Malek
    kids orthodontics

    Always Here for Your Dental Needs

    Common Questions

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What makes Class II Division 2 different from other bite problems?
    Class II Division 2 is characterized by a specific combination of deep overbite, retroclined (backward-tilted) upper incisors, and often a recessive lower jaw. Unlike Class II Division 1 where upper teeth protrude, Division 2 cases have upper front teeth tilted backward, creating a unique treatment challenge that requires specialized appliance therapy.
    How do functional appliances work for deep overbite correction?
    Functional appliances like twin-blocks work by holding the lower jaw in a forward position, encouraging growth and remodeling of the temporomandibular joints. This gradually reduces the overbite while improving jaw relationship. The appliance also helps procline (move forward) the retroclined upper incisors, addressing both skeletal and dental components of the problem.
    Why don't you extract teeth for Class II Division 2 cases?
    Extracting premolars in Class II Division 2 cases can worsen the deep overbite and further reduce facial support. Our functional appliance approach addresses the root cause by improving jaw relationship and creating space through forward jaw development. This preserves facial height and fullness while achieving better long-term stability.
    How long does functional appliance treatment take?

    The functional appliance phase typically lasts 12-18 months, followed by comprehensive braces for another 18-24 months. While longer than extraction approaches, the results include improved facial profile, better jaw function, and preservation of all natural teeth. The investment in time produces superior long-term outcomes.

    Will functional appliances be uncomfortable?
    Initial adjustment to functional appliances takes about a week, with some speech changes and increased saliva production. Most patients adapt quickly and find the appliances comfortable for daily wear. We provide detailed instructions for insertion, removal, and care to ensure optimal comfort and compliance throughout treatment.
    Can adults benefit from functional appliance therapy?
    While functional appliances work best during growth periods, adults can still benefit from modified approaches. Adult treatment may combine orthodontic camouflage techniques, surgical options, or alternative appliances to achieve similar results. We'll assess your individual case and recommend the most appropriate treatment approach for your age and goals.
    What happens to my facial appearance during treatment?
    Functional appliance therapy typically improves facial profile by advancing the lower jaw and reducing excessive overbite. Many patients notice enhanced lip support, improved chin projection, and better facial balance. The forward positioning of retroclined incisors also improves smile aesthetics and tooth display.
    How do you ensure stable results after treatment?
    Stability requires proper posterior bite support and anterior guidance. Our treatment approach ensures that back teeth fit together properly while front teeth provide appropriate guidance during jaw movements. Custom retainers maintain tooth position, while the improved jaw relationship achieved through functional appliances tends to be naturally stable.
    Is this treatment approach suitable for children and teens?

    Yes, functional appliance therapy is most effective during active growth periods, typically ages 10-14. Early intervention during this time maximizes the potential for jaw modification and reduces the need for more invasive treatment later. We'll assess growth potential and recommend optimal timing for functional appliance therapy.

    Ready to correct your complex bite pattern without extractions? Book a consultation with Professor Michael Woods at our Glen Iris practice, conveniently located near Malvern Central with easy access from Hawthorn, Toorak, Camberwell and surrounding suburbs.