Dr Steven Smith, Specialist Orthodontist

Dr Steven Smith is a specialist orthodontist at Collins Street Specialist Centre. He holds an honours degree in dental science and a Master of Dental Science in orthodontics from the University of Queensland. As an orthodontist, he diagnoses and treats problems with the alignment of the teeth and the way the upper and lower jaws meet. Dr Smith sees patients at our practice on Level 8 of the Manchester Unity Building, 220 Collins Street, Melbourne. To book, call (03) 9650 2726.

What do Dr Smith's qualifications mean?

His qualifications, as listed on our team page, are BDSc (Hons), MDSc (Ortho) (Qld):

• BDSc (Hons): a Bachelor of Dental Science awarded with honours, the degree that qualifies a dentist to practise.
• MDSc (Ortho) (Qld): a Master of Dental Science in orthodontics from the University of Queensland, the postgraduate specialist degree.

How does someone become a specialist orthodontist?

A specialist orthodontist first completes a dental degree and then several further years of full-time university training in orthodontics. That postgraduate study covers how the face and jaws grow, how teeth move, and how to plan and carry out treatment. Only after completing it can a dentist apply to the Dental Board of Australia for registration as a specialist orthodontist.

Which bite problems does Dr Smith assess?

An uneven bite is called a malocclusion. Besides affecting appearance, it can sometimes be linked to problems with the jaw joint or the underlying bone. Dr Smith sees patients for concerns such as:

• Overbite: the upper front teeth cover the lower teeth too much.
• Underbite: the lower front teeth sit ahead of the upper teeth.
• Crossbite: some upper teeth close inside the lower teeth.
• Crowding: there is not enough room for the teeth to line up.
• Impacted teeth: a tooth is blocked and cannot come through on its own.

What appliances might be suggested?

Our orthodontists use Invisalign clear aligners, conventional braces and lingual braces, which sit behind the teeth. Each has advantages and limitations. After examining your teeth and bite, Dr Smith explains which options fit your needs and what each involves day to day. More detail is on our orthodontics page.

Where can I check Dr Smith's registration?

Our team page records Dr Smith as a Registered Dentist, Specialist, with specialist registration in orthodontics, registration number DEN0001382809. The AHPRA public register at ahpra.gov.au lets you search that number or his name.

How does orthodontic care fit with your regular dentist?

Orthodontic treatment does not replace routine dental care. We recommend keeping up check-ups with your general dentist throughout treatment.

Our orthodontic specialists

Dr Smith works with Dr David Austin, Dr Andrea Phatouros and Dr. Joshua Ch’ng. Because our practice also has periodontists, prosthodontists and oral surgeons, cases that need more than one specialist can be planned together.

Frequently asked questions

Can I book with Dr Smith without a referral?

Yes. Our published guidance is that you do not need a referral to see our specialists. Call (03) 9650 2726 and ask for an appointment with Dr Smith. If you have recent X-rays or a letter from your dentist, bring them with you.

What should I bring to my consultation?

Bring a list of any medicines you take, details of your medical history, your private health fund card and any recent dental X-rays or scans. Noting what bothers you about your bite also helps.

Is it too late for adults to have orthodontic treatment?

Teeth can be moved at any age, as long as the teeth and gums are healthy. Dr Smith checks the condition of your gums and supporting bone before advising whether treatment is suitable, and explains how adult treatment may differ from treatment for teenagers.

How much does orthodontic treatment cost?

Costs vary with the complexity of the case and the appliance chosen, so we do not quote a fee before an assessment. Dr Smith gives you a written estimate after your consultation. Payment plans through Payright, TLC and Supercare may be available, subject to eligibility.

Related pages

• Orthodontics
• Periodontics
• Our team
• Our location
• Payment plans
• Contact us

Collins Street Specialist Centre at a glance

• Registered specialists in oral and maxillofacial surgery, endodontics, orthodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics and paediatric dentistry, in one practice.
• Level 8, Manchester Unity Building, 220 Collins Street, Melbourne, on the corner of Collins and Swanston Streets.
• No referral needed to book.
• Payment plans through Payright, TLC and Supercare, subject to eligibility.
• Call (03) 9650 2726 or email theteam@collinsstreetspecialistcentre.com.au.

Contact Collins Street Specialist Centre

Every patient is different, so results, recovery times and potential risks vary from person to person. This information is general in nature and is not a substitute for a consultation. Seek advice from an appropriately qualified, AHPRA-registered practitioner before proceeding with treatment.