Creating smiles.

Building confidence.

Caring for our community.

Every practice has a history. Ours has been built one smile at a time.

For more than 30 years, this practice has been caring for Gippsland families.

Originally established by Dr Richard Edwards and later nurtured by Dr Andrew Clark, it became a trusted part of the local community through kindness, integrity and a genuinely personal approach to care.

Today, Dr Michael Zhao and the Smile Central team are proud to continue that tradition, caring for Gippsland families with the same commitment to kindness, respect and clinical excellence that have guided the practice for generations.

While the faces within our practice may change over time, our purpose remains the same: to care for local families with warmth, kindness and respect, and to help every patient smile with confidence for a lifetime.

Meet Tahlia.

Like many of our patients, her orthodontic journey wasn't simply about straightening teeth. It was about feeling comfortable, confident and free to smile without hesitation.

Today, her smile reflects the confidence she carries into every new adventure, and we're honoured to have been part of that journey.

FAQs

1. At what age should I consider orthodontic treatment?

Most orthodontists recommend that children have an initial orthodontic evaluation around the age of 7 or 8. However, orthodontic treatment can be considered at any age. Children, adolescents, and adults can all benefit from orthodontic care.

2. How do I know if I or my child needs orthodontic treatment?

The need for orthodontic treatment is determined through an orthodontic evaluation. Common signs that may indicate the need for treatment include misaligned or crowded teeth, a large overjet, overbite, underbite, or crossbite. If you have any concerns, please schedule an appointment with our orthodontists at Smile Central Orthodontics for a thorough assessment.

3. Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist?

You don't need a referral to schedule an appointment with us. You are welcome to contact us directly to set up your initial consultation.

4. What are the benefits of orthodontic treatment beyond aesthetics?

Orthodontic treatment provides more than just a beautiful smile. It enhances oral health by making it easier to clean teeth effectively. It improves your overall occlusion/bite and reduces the risks for uneven tooth wear (or enamel loss). For patients with a significant overjet (frequently referred to as overbite), the risk of traumatic injuries is lowered after orthodontic treatment to restore normal occlusion. Furthermore, a healthy, radiant smile contributes to improved self-confidence and overall well-being.

5. How long does orthodontic treatment typically take?

The duration of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the individual's orthodontic needs and the desired final treatment outcome. On average, most cases can take anywhere from 12 to 30 months to complete. Our orthodontists will provide you with a personalised treatment plan and timeline.

6. Do I still need to see my general dentist during orthodontic treatment?

Yes, it's important to continue seeing your general dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist will work in conjunction with our orthodontists to ensure your oral health is maintained during orthodontic treatment.

7. Does orthodontic treatment hurt?

Orthodontic treatment may cause some discomfort initially and after adjustments. Over-the- counter pain relief can help alleviate any soreness.

8. Will I need to wear retainers after treatment, and for how long?

Yes, teeth will continue to move and change throughout life, retainers are typically needed after orthodontic treatment to maintain your new smile. The duration of retainer wear varies but often involves full-time wear initially, followed by night-time wear for an extended period.

9. Can I have Invisalign?

Invisalign stands as one of the leading Sequential Clear Aligner products in the market. Like any appliance, Invisalign has its inherent strengths and weaknesses in correcting specific types of malocclusion. While it is a powerful tool in the orthodontist's arsenal, no single tool can effectively address every orthodontic issue. To learn more about Invisalign, please explore our website, or consult with our orthodontists to determine if Invisalign is the suitable choice to enhance your smile.

If you have more specific questions or need further information, please feel free to contact us at Smile Central Orthodontics.