Orthodontics — straighter teeth and renewed confidence

Orthodontics is the specialty that corrects the positioning of teeth and jaws. It is necessary when there is dental crowding, spacing, crossbite, overbite, open bite, or alignment problems affecting aesthetics, chewing function, or oral health. Malocclusion affects approximately 56% of the world population.

We offer traditional metal braces (most effective and economical), ceramic/aesthetic braces (more discreet, tooth-colored), self-ligating braces (without elastics, more comfortable and hygienic), and lingual braces (placed on the inner surface of teeth, completely invisible). The orthodontist will recommend the best option for your case.

Fixed braces treatment usually takes between 18 months to 3 years, depending on case complexity. Simple cases may take 12-18 months, while more complex cases may need longer. Following the orthodontist's recommendations and attending adjustment appointments significantly influences duration.

Placing braces is not painful. In the first few days after placement and after each adjustment, it's normal to feel some discomfort or tooth sensitivity, which usually lasts 2-5 days. This discomfort is a sign that teeth are moving. Common painkillers and a soft diet in the first few days help relieve discomfort.

Adjustment appointments are usually every 4-6 weeks at the beginning of treatment, when teeth move faster. In the middle phase, adjustments may be spaced to every 6-8 weeks. It's important not to miss appointments, as each missed appointment can extend treatment by approximately one month.

You should avoid: hard foods (ice, whole nuts, whole apples), sticky foods (gum, caramels, toffee), foods requiring hard biting (raw carrots, corn on the cob). Cut food into small pieces before eating. Also avoid sugary and acidic drinks that can damage enamel around brackets.

Brush teeth after every meal (at least 3x/day) for 2 minutes, using a soft brush. Brush above and below brackets, angling the brush to clean under the wire. Use interdental brushes to clean between brackets and floss with a threader. An oral irrigator (water jet) is an excellent complement. Visit the dentist every 6 months for professional cleaning.

If a bracket comes loose, contact the clinic as soon as possible to reschedule. While waiting, leave the bracket in place if still attached to the wire. If loose, keep it and bring it to your appointment. Each broken bracket can extend treatment by about a month, so avoid foods that may damage the braces.

Absolutely! There is no age limit for orthodontic treatment. More and more adults seek orthodontics, whether for aesthetic or functional reasons. Ceramic braces, lingual braces, or clear aligners are popular options for those who prefer more discretion. Treatment in adults may take a bit longer, but results are equally excellent.

After braces removal, it's essential to wear retainers to keep teeth in their new position. Without retention, teeth tend to return to their original position. There are fixed retainers (wire bonded to the inner surface of teeth) and removable ones. Initially worn full-time, then only at night. Retention is for life!

Orthodontics corrects: crowding (crooked or overlapping teeth), spacing (gaps), overbite (upper teeth cover lower teeth too much), crossbite (upper teeth bite inside lower teeth), open bite (teeth don't touch when biting), prognathism (protruding jaw), and jaw alignment problems.

Orthodontics goes far beyond aesthetics. Aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. A correct bite distributes chewing forces better, preventing excessive wear and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems. Additionally, it can improve breathing, speech, and self-esteem.