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Orthodontics

Orthodontic treatment

Correcting the alignment of teeth and bite problems with braces or clear aligners. On this page we explain who it may suit, how it proceeds and what to keep in mind during treatment.

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Ortodonti pensi, tel ve seramik braketler (temsilî görsel)
On this page
  1. In brief
  2. What is Orthodontic treatment?
  3. Who may it suit?
  4. Step-by-step process
  5. Aftercare
  6. Possible risks and precautions
  7. Frequently asked questions
  8. Related treatments and articles

In brief

Total time
Usually 12–24 months
Check-up interval
Usually 4–8 weeks
Anaesthesia
Usually not needed
After treatment
Retainer

Durations are general information and vary from person to person. Your own timeline is written in your treatment plan after the examination.

What is Orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment adjusts the position of the teeth and jaws relative to each other. Crowded teeth, gaps between teeth, protruding or receding teeth, crossbites and deep bites can be corrected with this treatment.

The teeth are moved slowly with a gentle, continuous force, either with small parts bonded to them (brackets) and a wire running through these, or with clear aligners replaced at set intervals. Brackets can be metal or tooth-coloured ceramic.

Once treatment is complete, a retention period begins so the teeth do not move back: a thin wire is bonded to the back of the teeth or a clear retainer is worn at night. This period is as important as the treatment itself.

Who may it suit?

Usually considered

  • People with crowded or overlapping teeth
  • People with gaps between their teeth
  • People whose upper or lower teeth protrude or sit back
  • People with a crossbite or deep bite
  • Children, teenagers and adults with healthy gums and bone

Further assessment may be needed

  • Untreated gum disease or bone loss
  • Untreated decay
  • Many missing teeth or implants
  • Marked problems with jaw growth (surgery may be needed)
  • Jaw joint pain or limited mouth opening

There is no strict age limit for orthodontic treatment; it can also be done in adults. For children, a first orthodontic assessment around the age of 7 is a general recommendation.

Step-by-step process

  1. Examination and records

    An oral examination is carried out; X-rays, photographs and a digital impression of the teeth are taken.

  2. Treatment plan

    The options (metal or ceramic braces, clear aligners), the estimated duration, possible risks and what is expected of you are explained. Once you decide, the plan is prepared in writing and your consent is obtained.

  3. Preparation

    If needed, decay is treated and the teeth are cleaned first.

  4. Fitting the appliance

    Brackets are bonded to the teeth and the wire is placed, or the first aligners are handed over. Anaesthesia is usually not needed for this session.

  5. Regular check-ups

    You come for a check-up usually every 4–8 weeks; the wire is adjusted or new aligners are given.

  6. Removing the appliance

    When the teeth reach the planned position, the brackets are removed and the teeth are cleaned.

  7. Retention

    A fixed retainer wire or a clear retainer worn at night keeps the teeth in place; check-ups continue at longer intervals.

Aftercare

During treatment

  • Food collects around the brackets; brush your teeth after every meal. An orthodontic toothbrush and interdental brushes make this easier.
  • Hard, sticky and crunchy foods (hard sweets, toffee, corn, nuts) can loosen brackets; eat them in small pieces or avoid them.
  • For 2–3 days after an adjustment the teeth may feel tight and sensitive; choose soft foods.
  • If a bracket or wire rubs your cheek, you can use orthodontic wax; if a part comes loose, call us.

After treatment

Wear your retainer for as long as your dentist advises. Without it, the teeth may gradually drift back towards their old positions.

Possible risks and precautions

The possible risks of orthodontic treatment are explained to you in detail at the examination.

  • If oral hygiene is insufficient, white spots and decay may develop around the brackets.
  • Gum inflammation and gum overgrowth may occur; they usually settle with good care.
  • Rarely, the roots of the teeth may shorten (root resorption).
  • Pain and irritation of the cheeks and lips may occur in the first days and after adjustments.
  • If the retainer is not worn, the teeth may shift again.
  • Treatment may take longer depending on attending check-ups, careful use of appliances and how the bone responds.

Frequently asked questions

Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?

There is no upper age limit for orthodontic treatment. In adults, healthy gums and bone are what matter; this is assessed at the examination.

Braces or clear aligners?

Both move the teeth. Clear aligners are removable and less visible, but they need to be worn 20–22 hours a day. In some complex cases braces may be more suitable. Which one suits you is decided at the examination.

Is treatment painful?

For a few days after the appliance is fitted and after adjustments, the teeth may feel tight and sensitive; this usually eases on its own.

Will my teeth move back after treatment?

Teeth tend to move throughout life. Wearing the retainer for the recommended period helps keep them in place.

Related treatments and articles

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