FAQs

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a specialty within dentistry that diagnoses, prevents, and treats dental and facial irregularities.

An orthodontist is a dentist who, after graduating from dental school, completes an advanced program in orthodontics to acquire specialized knowledge to correct tooth position and guide the development of the facial bones.

  • A more beautiful smile
  • Reduces self-consciousness about appearance during childhood and adolescence
  • Better tooth function
  • A possible boost in self-esteem
  • Greater ease in cleaning the teeth
  • Better distribution of occlusal force and wear patterns across all teeth
  • Better long-term dental and gum health
  • Better positioning of permanent teeth
  • Reduced risk of injury to front teeth that protrude from the mouth
  • Helps optimize other dental treatments
  • The upper front teeth protrude excessively over the lower front teeth or resemble “rabbit teeth”
  • The upper front teeth cover most of the lower front teeth when biting (deep overbite)
  • The upper front teeth are behind the lower front teeth (anterior crossbite)
  • The upper and lower front teeth do not touch when biting (open bite)
  • Crowded teeth.
  • The midlines of the upper and lower teeth do not form a single continuous line
  • Thumb-sucking or finger-sucking continues after the age of 6 or 7
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Teeth wear unevenly or excessively
  • When biting, the lower jaw shifts to one side
  • There are spaces between the teeth

Orthodontic treatment can begin at any age. Many orthodontic problems are easily corrected if detected early, before jaw growth slows down. Early treatment means the patient may avoid surgery and other more serious complications. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child be examined by an orthodontist at age 7, or earlier if parents, the family dentist, or the child’s pediatrician detect any issue.

Phase I, or interceptive, treatment consists of limited orthodontic correction (for example, the use of expanders or partial braces) before all permanent teeth have erupted. This treatment is carried out between the ages of 6 and 10. It helps provide more space for permanent teeth and correct problems such as crossbites, overbites, prognathism, or harmful oral habits. Phase II treatment, also known as comprehensive treatment, involves placing full braces after all permanent teeth have erupted, generally between the ages of 11 and 13.

Orthodontic treatment can deliver good results at any age. We all want to have a beautiful, healthy smile. Of patients who receive orthodontic treatment, between 20% and 25% are adults.

Braces apply gentle, constant pressure that gradually guides the teeth into their correct positions. The brackets attached to the teeth and the archwire that connects them are the main components of the treatment. When the archwire is inserted into the brackets, it tries to return to its original shape. In doing so, it generates the pressure needed to correct tooth position.

Treatment duration varies from case to case, but the average is one to two years. The treatment itself may be influenced by the patient’s growth stage and the degree of correction required. Treatment duration also depends on patient cooperation. Good oral hygiene and regular visits to the orthodontist are important to complete treatment within the scheduled timeframe.

Attaching bands and brackets to the teeth does not cause pain at all. However, once braces have been placed and connected with an archwire, you may experience tooth soreness for a period of one to four days. The lips and cheeks may need one to two weeks to get used to the braces on the teeth.

No. However, it is recommended that orthodontic patients protect their teeth with a mouthguard when participating in any sports activity. Mouthguards are inexpensive, comfortable, and come in a variety of colors and designs.

No. However, an initial adjustment period may be necessary. In addition, brace guards can be provided to prevent discomfort.

Yes, you should continue seeing your regular dentist every six months for professional cleanings and dental check-ups.

Step by step

01

First visit

At the first visit, you tell us the reason for your consultation and what you would like to improve. The doctor will advise you on whether orthodontic treatment is needed. In addition, we will provide you with a fixed quote and an estimated treatment duration.

02

Records

We will take photographs of your face and mouth, create study models of your mouth, and take X-rays to assess the overall condition of your teeth. These records will allow us to develop a detailed, personalized treatment plan.

03

Orthodontic assessment

We will explain, step by step, the treatment you will follow and the results we expect to achieve for your mouth and face. This is the ideal time for you to ask any questions you may have.

04

Start of treatment

At the first treatment visit, which will last approximately one hour, we will fit the orthodontic appliances and explain how to maintain good oral hygiene and care for the appliances.

05

End-of-treatment visit

At the end of treatment, we will take new records to observe the final results. This will help us compare the results with the initial records and confirm that we have satisfactorily achieved the treatment goals.

06

Retention and follow-ups

After the teeth have been moved, they tend to return to their original position, especially in the first few months. To prevent this, the patient must wear a retainer, a discreet and simple appliance that keeps the teeth in their new position. It is important for the patient to attend the corresponding follow-up appointments to ensure that the treatment results are maintained properly.

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