Treatments · Orthodontics
Orthodontics
Orthodontics corrects the alignment of the teeth and the position of the jaws relative to each other. The aim is not just a straight row of teeth but a correct bite, teeth that are easy to clean and a balanced relationship for the jaw joint.
Orthodontics straightens crowded, spaced or badly biting teeth with clear aligners or braces. Treatment takes 6–18 months in most adults and 12–24 months in children depending on growth; afterwards a retainer is recommended for life. There is no age limit — adults can be treated as long as gums and bone are healthy.
What can be treated?
- Crowding and gaps between teeth
- Protruding upper teeth or a forward lower jaw
- Deep bite, open bite, cross bite
- Midline shift, rotated single teeth
- Making space or uprighting teeth before a prosthesis or implant
Clear aligners
A series of transparent trays planned from a digital scan, each moving the teeth a small step. They are worn 20–22 hours a day and removed for eating and brushing. Adults often prefer them because they are barely visible and easy to keep clean; the plan can be viewed on screen. For complex jaw relationships and large movements, braces may be more suitable — this is decided at the examination.
Braces
Metal or tooth-coloured (ceramic) brackets bonded to the teeth and a wire running through them move the teeth. Braces can handle any kind of movement and work continuously regardless of patient compliance; the wire is adjusted at monthly visits.
Timing in children
Around age 7 is a good time for a first orthodontic assessment; some jaw-growth problems are easier to guide with removable or functional appliances at that age. Ages 11–13, when most teeth have changed, is a common time for fixed treatment.
Step by step
- Records: panoramic and cephalometric X-rays, photographs, digital scan or impression.
- Plan: for aligners, a computer simulation of the target alignment and number of trays; for braces, the bracket type and whether extractions are needed.
- Start: delivery of the trays and bonding of attachments, or placement of brackets (1 visit, 60–90 min).
- Check-ups: every 6–10 weeks with aligners, every 4–6 weeks with braces, 15–30 min.
- Finishing and retention: removal of attachments/brackets, polishing, fixed and/or removable retainer.
Duration
- Mild crowding (aligners): 4–8 months
- Moderate to severe cases: 12–24 months
- Growth-guiding treatment in children: 9–18 months, then a second phase for the permanent teeth
International patients: aligner treatment can be followed with check-ups spaced 2–3 months apart and photo updates in between; this is agreed at the planning stage.
During treatment
A feeling of pressure for 2–3 days after each new tray or wire adjustment is normal. Aligners are worn 20–22 hours a day and removed for meals and brushing. With braces, avoid hard and sticky food and use interdental brushes and floss threaders; gum inflammation slows treatment. Do not miss check-ups.
After treatment: retention
Teeth tend to drift back. A thin wire bonded behind the teeth and/or a clear retainer worn at night is therefore used after treatment; this is part of the treatment and continues long-term.
Alternatives
If the front teeth have only minor irregularity and colour problems, veneers can give a faster result, but they require tooth preparation and do not correct the bite. Marked skeletal discrepancies in adults are planned as orthodontics combined with jaw surgery.
- Treatment does not start until active gum disease and decay are treated.
- Aligners require the discipline of 20 hours' wear a day; if that is not possible, braces are more suitable.
- Marked skeletal problems in adults may need surgical support.
- If the retention phase is neglected, teeth drift back.
FAQ
Orthodontics
Aligners or braces?
For mild to moderate crowding and gaps both work; aligners score on hygiene and invisibility, braces on control and larger movements. The decision is based on examination and digital planning.
How long does treatment take?
Between 6 and 24 months depending on the problem. Minor corrections take a few months; bite corrections may take 18–24 months.
Does it hurt?
A feeling of pressure and sensitivity for 2–3 days after a wire change or a new tray is normal; most patients manage with a mild painkiller or none.
Will teeth need to be extracted?
In some cases with severe crowding, yes. Today, expansion and minimal enamel reduction allow more cases to be planned without extractions; the decision is made on analysis.
Do I wear the aligners while eating?
No. Trays are removed for meals, hot drinks and brushing; they can stay in while drinking water. They must be worn at least 20 hours a day.
How long is retention?
Every night in the first year, then long-term in the pattern your dentist advises. A fixed wire behind the teeth can stay for years.
Appointment
Examination appointment for Orthodontics
Call, write on WhatsApp or fill in the form; we reply during working hours.