January is synonymous with fresh starts and renewed commitments to health. As Australians recover from the festive season's indulgences, there's a notable surge in bookings for medical and wellness appointments. This annual reset now extends far beyond diet and exercise, encompassing comprehensive care for skin, mental wellbeing, and increasingly, dental health.
The Rise of the Discreet Smile Makeover
In 2025, clear aligners have cemented their status as a leading choice for adults seeking to straighten their teeth, moving orthodontic treatment firmly out of the realm of teenage braces. The appeal lies in their near-invisibility, removability, and ease of integration into busy adult lives. Worn for 20 to 22 hours daily, the trays can be taken out for meals, drinks other than water, and special occasions, eliminating the self-consciousness often associated with traditional braces.
Urban Smile reports a significant increase in adult patients taking control of their smiles. According to Specialist Orthodontist Dr Sarah Lawrence, age is no barrier. The clinic has even treated a patient in her 70s, who is excited to straighten her teeth in time for her daughter's wedding next year, proving that confidence has no expiry date.
Expert Care: The Orthodontist Difference
A common point of confusion for prospective patients is the distinction between a dentist and an orthodontist. While a dentist manages general oral health—cleanings, fillings, and check-ups—an orthodontist is a specialist. They complete an additional three years of university training on top of a standard five-year dentistry degree, specialising in safely moving teeth and correcting bite issues.
This expertise is crucial for long-term oral health outcomes. At Urban Smile, every treatment plan is crafted and supervised by Specialist Orthodontists Dr Igor Lavrin and Dr Sarah Lawrence, who together possess over 40 years of combined experience. Their unique model allows for remote treatment monitoring, which reduces wait times for appointments and makes their care, on average, 25 per cent more affordable than traditional orthodontic practices.
The benefits of straight teeth go beyond aesthetics. Proper alignment is fundamental to dental function, helping to reduce uneven wear, alleviate jaw discomfort, and make chewing more comfortable. Straight teeth are also significantly easier to clean, promoting better oral health for years to come. As teeth naturally tend to crowd with age, addressing alignment sooner can prevent more complex issues later.
A Modern, Convenient Treatment Journey
Clear aligner treatment with Urban Smile is designed for modern convenience. Patients use an AI-powered Dental Monitoring app on their smartphone, along with a simple Scan Box attachment. They complete weekly scans from home, which are analysed in real-time to track tooth movement, aligner fit, and hygiene. If the system detects an issue, the clinical team is alerted early, keeping treatment on track with minimal need for in-person clinic visits.
Founded in 2022 in Hawthorn, Melbourne by the husband-and-wife team of Dr Lavrin and Dr Lawrence, Urban Smile was born from a desire to create a safer, more accessible alternative to poorly monitored online aligner treatments. The practice has since expanded to locations in Brunswick, Hawthorn, and Waurn Ponds, and now offers in-chair whitening, express cleans, replacement retainers, and Swarovski tooth gems.
To capitalise on the New Year's health momentum, Urban Smile has launched a limited-time offer. For a limited time, readers can receive $500 off a double-arch clear aligner treatment by using the code SMILE2026. This offer is valid until 11:59pm AEDT on 31 January 2026. The discount applies to treatments priced between $4,180 and $6,980, though a consultation is required to assess eligibility, and terms and conditions apply.
With a free one-hour consultation that includes 3D scans, photos, and X-rays, flexible payment plans, and acceptance of health insurance, January presents a strategic opportunity to invest in a healthier smile. For many Australians, this New Year's resolution could lead to a lifetime of improved confidence and oral health.
