Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontics is concerned with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of jaw and dental irregularities. Orthodontic treatment helps guide the development of the jaw in early ages to ensure teeth are in the correct positions. In adults, it corrects existing crowding, occlusion irregularities, and jaw disorders.

Stages of Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment can be performed during three different developmental periods:

1. Pre-adolescent period: At this stage, young orthodontic patients still have milk teeth in their mouths. Additionally, their jaw and facial structures are still developing. Orthodontic treatment at this stage aims to correct structural imbalances to support the harmonious development of dental arches. Bad habits such as thumb or pacifier sucking, nail-biting, swallowing disorders, or mouth breathing, as well as mismatched upper and lower jaw sequences (crossbite, open bite), are corrected.

2. Adolescent period: This phase corresponds to the peak of the adolescent growth spurt. Orthodontic treatment at this stage aims to provide optimal functional balance coordinated with good smile aesthetics. Oral health and a good bite are planned according to the patient's and their aesthetic expectations. In cases of severe dental crowding and/or significant skeletal discrepancies, treatments involving tooth extractions or surgical support may be necessary.

3. Adult period: In this stage, orthodontic treatment aims to design a smile that provides a balanced and stable bite and aesthetic appearance. Bone loss supporting the teeth or tooth loss due to periodontal disease may necessitate corrective orthodontic intervention as it can cause teeth to shift. Significant skeletal imbalances in adults may require orthodontic treatment combined with micro-surgery or surgical treatment.

Orthodontic Treatment Methods

Braces are wire-based devices that orthodontists place directly on the teeth to correct crowding. Braces are still the most commonly used method for orthodontic treatment. There is no definitive age limit for getting braces, but it is generally recommended to wait until all or most of the permanent teeth have emerged. As some dental crowding may self-correct during permanent dentition, intervention with braces may not always be necessary. There are two methods: braces and clear aligners. The types of braces that can be used depending on the condition of the teeth and patient preference are:

• Metal bracket orthodontic treatment: These are the most commonly used orthodontic devices. These metal brackets adhere to the teeth, and the orthodontic wires passing through them move the teeth. Metal brackets are much more durable than other methods. Orthodontists use colored or clear elastics to secure the wires between the brackets.

• Porcelain bracket orthodontic treatment: Due to their color, they are less noticeable and preferred by patients with aesthetic concerns. Porcelain brackets are more fragile and require more maintenance than other methods.

• Lingual bracket orthodontic treatment: Also known as lingual orthodontics or invisible braces, in this method, the brackets are attached to the inside of the teeth, making them invisible from the outside. This treatment is not suitable for every patient but can be offered as an alternative for those who are eligible.

Differences Between Metal and Porcelain Brackets

Both metal and porcelain brackets require patients to avoid certain foods to prevent breakage and prolonging the treatment. However, porcelain brackets are more fragile and require extra care compared to metal brackets.

How Is Orthodontic Treatment with Clear Aligners?

Another orthodontic method is treatment with clear aligners. This method has become quite popular in recent years. Known as aligner orthodontics or Invisalign, these aligners are nearly invisible in the mouth, making the treatment more aesthetic. They are easy to put on and remove, making maintenance and oral hygiene easier. Although often preferred by adults, there is no age limit for using clear aligners. Orthodontic clear aligners are custom-designed for each patient using computer assistance.

Do Clear Aligners Affect Social Life?

Invisalign clear aligners have the least negative impact on social life. Since the buttons on the teeth are the same color as the teeth, they are very hard to notice.

At What Age Can Braces Be Worn?

The question of at what age braces can be worn or at what age orthodontic treatment can be done is common. In short, orthodontic treatment with braces can be done at any age. The main difference between children and adults is that children still have space in their mouths for teeth to develop, whereas adults do not. Starting treatment early in cases of mandibular length or deficiency can make braces treatment much more effective because it is still possible to beneficially direct bone development at this stage. Adults with incorrect bone positions have a lower chance of improvement compared to children who have not completed their growth. However, dental crowding can be corrected with similar success rates among children, adolescents, and adults.

How Long Does Braces Treatment Take?

The duration of braces treatment or clear aligner treatment varies from patient to patient. Each orthodontic case is unique. Factors such as the presence of diseases in the mouth or the body in general, the response of tissues to treatment, and the level of oral hygiene can all affect the duration of orthodontic treatment.

Is Braces Treatment Painful?

Today, braces treatment is entirely painless, thanks to the advanced techniques and materials used for braces. After an orthodontic appointment, depending on the patient and the case, there might be discomfort due to pressure on the teeth while biting, lasting 1 to 3 days. The presence of brackets in the mouth may cause discomfort initially, but patients typically get used to the brackets and appliances within a few days, eliminating this sensation.

Braces Prices

The prices of braces vary depending on the type of braces chosen, the condition of the teeth, and many other factors. For detailed information and to learn about the cost of your treatment, you can consult your doctor.