Open: Mon – Sat 9:00am-6:00pm | Sun – Closed
Straighten your teeth and transform your smile with braces or Invisalign at Paynless Dental Toongabbie. Our team includes Dr Natasha Khushalani, an Invisalign Provider, and Dr Jathu Sathiya, who has experience treating children and adult patients with braces. Orthodontic treatment is available at our Toongabbie clinic. Written assessment and itemised quote before any treatment begins. All health funds accepted.
Orthodontic treatment at Paynless Dental is provided by AHPRA-registered general dentists, including an Invisalign Provider. For complex orthodontic cases, Paynless Dental may refer patients to a registered specialist orthodontist. Your treating dentist will advise at your consultation.
Independent information: Healthdirect — Braces · Australian Dental Association
| Treatments offered | Metal braces · Ceramic braces · Invisalign · Clear aligners · Retainers |
| Clinic | Toongabbie only — orthodontics not available at North Ryde |
| Treatment time | 6–12 months (minor cases) · 12–24 months (moderate–complex) |
| Appointments | Every 6–8 weeks throughout treatment |
| Invisalign wear time | 20–22 hours per day — discipline required |
| Cost from | From $3,500+ — confirmed after assessment |
| Retainer after? | Yes — lifelong retainer wear recommended to maintain results |
| Health fund | Yes — orthodontic cover (lifetime limits apply) |
| CDBS | ❌ NOT covered — orthodontics explicitly excluded from CDBS |
| Payment plans | Afterpay · Humm · Denticare available |
| Complex cases | May be referred to a registered specialist orthodontist |
All dentists at Paynless Dental are AHPRA-registered general dentists. Orthodontic treatment is provided by general dentists — not registered specialist orthodontists. Choose your preferred dentist when booking — subject to availability.
BDS (Manipal University, 2004) · 20+ years · Further training in Implantology & Progressive Orthodontics
✓ Accepting New Patients
Toongabbie & North Ryde
BDS (JCU) · PG Dip. Implantology · PG Dip. Orthodontics
✓ Accepting New Patients
Toongabbie only
His PG Dip. Orthodontics is an advanced training qualification. He provides orthodontic treatment as a general dentist — not a registered specialist orthodontist.
BDS (MUHS India, 2007) · Invisalign Provider
✓ Accepting New Patients
Toongabbie only
Her overseas MDS is not an AHPRA-ratified specialist qualification. She provides orthodontic treatment as a general dentist.
“Our three generations got treatment here. Dr Payal, Dr Jathu, Dr Natasha all are great. All the staff are friendly. Budget wise good as well.”
Purely OZ ★★★★★
“Dr Gupta is truly meticulous in her work — she takes the time to explain everything clearly and pays close attention to every detail. She is genuinely caring and kind, always checking in to make sure you’re feeling okay.”
Annabelle Campbell ★★★★★
“My family and I have had regular appointments with Dr Payal Gupta for 13 years. Dr Gupta is very knowledgeable, thorough, and caring. She records the condition of my teeth using notes, pictures, and x-rays for future comparison.”
James Thomas ★★★★★
Patient experiences and testimonials represent individual outcomes and may not reflect typical results.
Three main options are available at Paynless Dental Toongabbie. The right choice depends on the complexity of your case, your lifestyle, and your preferences. Your dentist will recommend the most clinically appropriate option at your consultation.
| Factor | Metal Braces | Ceramic Braces | Invisalign / Clear Aligners |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Visible metal brackets + wire | Tooth-coloured brackets — more discreet | Near-invisible clear trays |
| Fixed or removable | Fixed — cannot be removed | Fixed — cannot be removed | Removable — taken out to eat & clean |
| Suitable for | All complexity levels — mild to complex | Mild to moderate cases | Mild to moderate; some complex cases |
| Compliance required | Minimal — always working | Minimal — always working | High — must wear 20–22 hours/day |
| Food restrictions | Yes — hard, sticky, chewy foods | Yes — same as metal | None — remove to eat |
| Cleaning difficulty | More effort — must clean around brackets | More effort — same as metal | Standard — remove and clean normally |
| Staining risk | Low | Brackets may stain slightly with coffee/tea | Aligners may yellow if not maintained |
| Cost from (Sydney 2026) | From $3,500+ | From $5,000+ | From $3,500+ (Invisalign Express/Lite) From $6,000+ (Comprehensive) |
| Treatment time | 12–24 months typical | 12–24 months typical | 6–18 months (varies by case) |
Your treating dentist examines your teeth, bite, and jaw. X-rays are taken to assess root positions and bone levels. Your dentist discusses what is possible, which treatment option best suits your case and lifestyle, and the expected timeline. A written quote is provided — no obligation to proceed.
Digital scans or impressions, photographs, and X-rays are taken. For Invisalign, these records are submitted to the Invisalign laboratory for aligner fabrication (2–4 weeks). For braces, brackets are ordered to match your treatment plan. Some patients require tooth extraction before treatment begins to create space — this is assessed at consultation.
For braces: brackets are bonded to the tooth surfaces and a wire is threaded through. The appointment typically takes 60–90 minutes. Mild soreness for 3–5 days is normal as teeth begin to move. For Invisalign: your first set of trays is fitted and you leave with detailed instructions on wear time, cleaning, and care.
For braces: regular adjustment appointments replace the wire with a progressively thicker one to continue tooth movement. These take 20–30 minutes. For Invisalign: review appointments check progress and you move through your aligner sequence. This phase lasts 12–24 months for most cases.
When your teeth have reached their final position, braces are removed (debonded) and teeth are cleaned and polished. For Invisalign, you complete your final tray. Your treating dentist assesses the result and discusses whether any refinements (additional trays or minor adjustments) are needed.
A retainer is fitted immediately after treatment. Without it, teeth will shift back — often within weeks. Most patients wear retainers nightly long-term to maintain results. Fixed retainers (bonded wire behind front teeth) are also available for patients who prefer a set-and-forget option. The cost of a retainer is typically not included in the treatment quote — confirm at consultation.
Is a retainer included in my treatment cost? This varies by practice. At your consultation, confirm whether your retainer is included in the quoted fee or whether it is an additional cost. Most Australian practices charge separately for retainers ($200–$500 per retainer). Ask specifically about retainer type, cost, and replacement policy before committing to treatment.
| Factor | Fixed Braces (metal or ceramic) | Invisalign / Clear Aligners |
|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Visible — ceramic less so than metal | Near-invisible when worn |
| Compliance | Built in — always working, no effort required | Patient-dependent — must wear 20–22 hrs/day |
| Complex bite issues | Handles all complexity levels | Less predictable for significant rotations, vertical movement, severe bite issues |
| Eating restrictions | Avoid hard, sticky, chewy foods throughout treatment | None — remove aligners before eating |
| Oral hygiene | More effort required — clean around brackets and wire | Standard routine — remove aligners to brush and floss |
| Adjustment appointments | Every 6–8 weeks — dentist adjusts wire | Every 6–8 weeks — progress checked, new trays provided |
| Treatment time | 12–24 months typically | 6–18 months for suitable cases |
| Cost from (Sydney 2026) | From $3,500+ (metal) · From $5,000+ (ceramic) | From $3,500+ (Lite/Express) · From $6,000+ (Comprehensive) |
| Best suited to | All ages · complex cases · patients who want reliability | Adults & older teens · mild–moderate cases · lifestyle flexibility |
| After treatment | Retainer required for life | Retainer required for life |
| Treatment | Case type | Paynless from | Sydney market 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metal braces | Mild to complex | From $3,500+ | $4,500–$8,000 |
| Ceramic braces | Mild to moderate | Price on consultation | $5,000–$9,500 |
| Invisalign Express / Lite | Minor corrections only | From $3,500+ | $3,500–$6,500 |
| Invisalign Comprehensive | Moderate to complex | Price on consultation | $6,000–$9,500 |
| Retainer (after treatment) | All patients | Ask at consultation | $200–$500 per retainer |
What should be included in my orthodontic quote? Always confirm whether your quote includes: all adjustment appointments throughout treatment · refinement trays (Invisalign) or wire changes (braces) · retainer at end of treatment · any additional X-rays required. Items charged separately at some practices include retainers, emergency appointments, and replacement aligners. Ask specifically at your consultation.
Orthodontic treatment is typically covered under orthodontic extras in private health fund policies — but unlike other dental items, the benefit is usually a lifetime cap (not an annual limit). Contact your fund with the relevant item number before treatment begins. HICAPS on-the-spot at Toongabbie.
| Procedure | ADA Item |
|---|---|
| Orthodontic consultation / assessment | 881 |
| Comprehensive orthodontic treatment (full course) | 823 |
| Limited orthodontic treatment | 825 |
| Removable orthodontic appliance (retainer) | 832 |
Lifetime limits: Most private health fund orthodontic benefits are subject to a lifetime limit — typically $2,500–$3,500. This means once you have claimed up to your lifetime limit, no further orthodontic rebates are available under that policy, regardless of how many years you hold it. Check with your fund before commencing treatment. CDBS does not cover orthodontic treatment (ADA item 823, 825) — this is explicitly excluded from the CDBS schedule.
Free orthodontic consultation at Paynless Dental Toongabbie. Braces and Invisalign from $3,500. Written quote before treatment. Open Saturday until 4pm.
At Paynless Dental Toongabbie, metal braces start from $3,500+ and Invisalign Express/Lite from $3,500+. The Sydney market range for general dental practices is $4,500–$8,000 for metal braces and $5,000–$9,500 for ceramic braces. Invisalign ranges from $3,500 (minor cases) to $9,500+ (comprehensive). The exact cost depends on the complexity of your case, the treatment type, and the length of treatment. A written itemised quote is provided after your free consultation before any commitment.
Treatment time varies by case complexity. Minor corrections with Invisalign can take 6–12 months. Moderate misalignment typically takes 12–18 months. More complex cases may take 18–24 months. After active treatment ends, you transition to a retainer — which must be worn nightly long-term to maintain your results. Your treating dentist will provide an estimated treatment timeline at your consultation, though this may vary as treatment progresses.
Braces should not cause sharp pain — but you will experience mild soreness and pressure for 3–5 days after braces are fitted and after each adjustment appointment. This is a normal sign that teeth are moving. Over-the-counter paracetamol or ibuprofen (if not contraindicated) manages this well. Invisalign aligners cause similar mild pressure when a new tray is first worn. Soft foods in the first few days after adjustments are usually recommended. If a bracket becomes sharp against your cheek, dental wax (available at pharmacies) provides immediate relief — call us if the issue persists.
Orthodontic treatment is NOT covered by the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) — it is explicitly excluded. For private health insurance, orthodontic cover is available in most comprehensive extras policies, but benefits are typically subject to a lifetime limit of $2,500–$3,500 (not an annual limit). This means once you exhaust your lifetime entitlement, no further orthodontic rebates are available under that policy. Contact your fund with ADA item 823 (comprehensive orthodontic treatment) to confirm your lifetime remaining benefit before committing to treatment. HICAPS on-the-spot claiming is available at Toongabbie.
Yes — absolutely. There is no upper age limit for orthodontic treatment. Adults can achieve the same results as teenagers, provided gum and bone health is good. Any existing gum disease must be treated and stable before orthodontic treatment begins. Many adults prefer Invisalign for its near-invisible appearance and the flexibility to remove aligners for professional situations. Ceramic braces are also popular with adults who want less visible fixed braces. A consultation will determine the most appropriate option for your age, health, and goals.
Braces use fixed metal or ceramic brackets and wires bonded to the teeth — they work continuously without any input from the patient and are effective for all complexity levels. Invisalign uses a series of removable clear trays changed every 1–2 weeks. Invisalign is near-invisible and has no food restrictions, but requires you to wear the trays for 20–22 hours every day — if worn less, treatment can stall. Braces are generally more predictable for complex bite issues and significant crowding. Invisalign is popular with adults for mild to moderate cases where discretion is important.
Yes — and for life. After active orthodontic treatment ends, teeth have a strong tendency to shift back toward their original positions. Without a retainer, most patients see noticeable movement within months. A retainer (removable clear tray worn nightly, or a fixed wire bonded behind front teeth) is fitted immediately at the end of treatment. Most dentists and orthodontists recommend nightly wear indefinitely. The cost of the retainer is often not included in the orthodontic fee — confirm at your consultation whether it is included in your quote.
No. Orthodontic treatment at Paynless Dental is provided by AHPRA-registered general dentists — including Dr Natasha Khushalani (Invisalign Provider) and Dr Jathu Sathiya. They are general dentists providing orthodontic treatment, not registered specialist orthodontists. Dr Natasha’s overseas MDS is not an AHPRA-ratified specialist qualification. For patients whose cases require specialist assessment or management, Paynless Dental will refer to a registered specialist orthodontist. Whether your case is appropriate for general dental management or requires specialist care will be assessed and discussed honestly at your consultation.
⚠ Orthodontic treatment is available at our Toongabbie clinic only. Dr Natasha and Dr Jathu do not attend the North Ryde clinic. If you are a North Ryde patient interested in braces or Invisalign, please book at Toongabbie.
Our partner clinic in Blacktown.
Prepared by: Paynless Dental Editorial Team Clinical review: Dr Payal Gupta • Principal Dentist • AHPRA Registered Dentist
Reviewed: 11 July 2026 • Next scheduled review: July 2027
Our patient education content is developed using current Australian clinical guidance and trusted health information sources. Every treatment page is clinically reviewed before publication and periodically updated to help ensure ongoing accuracy.
Information on this website is provided for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalised dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations.
Orthodontic treatment suitability, complexity, estimated duration, and costs vary between patients. Your treating dentist will assess your individual circumstances during a consultation before recommending any treatment options. Treatment outcomes cannot be guaranteed and depend on individual case complexity and patient compliance.
Orthodontic treatment at Paynless Dental is provided by AHPRA-registered general dentists, not registered specialist orthodontists. Complex cases may be referred to a registered specialist orthodontist where clinically appropriate.
Website content may be prepared and maintained with assistance from digital tools and reviewed according to content type. Clinical treatment information is reviewed by registered dental practitioners.
