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In this section, you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about orthodontic treatment. Please note that every case is unique, so minor variations may occur depending on each patient’s needs.
This depends on each patient’s problem and the planned treatment approach. On average, a single-phase orthodontic treatment of the upper and lower jaw takes 1.5-2 years. Visits are usually once a month, but in some cases they may be more frequent (once every fifteen days) or less frequent (once every two months).
The cost of orthodontic treatment depends on the severity of the problem, the difficulties involved in treating it, the duration, and the type of treatment chosen (metal braces, ceramic braces, Damon, Damon Clear, Lingual Orthodontics, Invisalign technique, Clear Aligners, or combinations of all of these).
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As in dentistry in general, so too in orthodontics, aesthetics and proper function are the primary goals. In addition to creating a beautiful smile, orthodontics creates the right conditions for the stomatognathic system to function harmoniously and for the maintenance of proper oral hygiene. These two factors are essential for the long-term preservation of dental arch integrity and for preventing disorders of the temporomandibular joints.
According to the guidelines of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), the appropriate age for a first orthodontic examination is when the permanent upper and lower incisors have erupted — typically around 7.5 to 8 years of age. There are specific orthodontic problems that should ideally be addressed even at this age and before all permanent teeth have erupted; hence, an early examination is recommended. Of course, other types of orthodontic problems can be treated later on, after all permanent teeth have erupted, that is, around the ages of 11 to 13.
The most challenging phase for an orthodontic patient is the first week after treatment begins. During this period, the patient’s teeth are so sensitive that it is difficult to bite foods of moderate or hard texture. However, this is a temporary condition and does not last more than 7-10 days. After each visit, when the orthodontic appliances are usually activated, this sensitivity returns, but with much less intensity and shorter duration (1–3 days). In some cases, the sensitivity may be stronger and more continuous (not limited to biting), in which case it is recommended to take pain relievers (e.g., paracetamol—e.g., Depon—or ibuprofen—e.g., Algofren, Nurofen).
There are no significant dietary restrictions during orthodontic treatment. Patients can eat almost anything they want as long as they follow their orthodontist’s instructions and practice good oral hygiene after every meal, which they should do anyway.
Maintaining oral hygiene during treatment is indeed more time-consuming due to the presence of orthodontic appliances. The exception is when removable appliances and clear aligners are used, which can be taken out, making it easier for the patient to clean their teeth. Oral hygiene is maintained according to the orthodontist’s instructions, using supplementary tools that make tooth brushing much easier.
This type of treatment requires more time for proper tooth cleaning and may, to varying degrees, affect speech due to the tongue’s need to adapt to a new environment. Minor tongue irritations may occur, particularly during the initial period after the braces are placed. In any case, patients adapt to this type of treatment, and discontinuation of therapy due to intolerance is extremely rare. Previous studies indicate that the average time needed for complete adaptation of the tongue in speech is about 9–12 weeks. However, it should be noted that some patients adapt much faster.
Furthermore, modern lingual brackets are significantly smaller than older ones, which facilitates quicker adaptation. Another point worth noting is the slightly longer treatment time required with lingual braces compared to conventional braces—typically 3 to 5 months more. However, this is not particularly important for the patient, since lingual brackets are positioned in completely invisible areas.
Orthodontic treatment in adults can be just as effective. Research has shown that age does not significantly affect either the effectiveness or the duration of treatment. However, it should be noted that this does not apply to patients with periodontal problems and poor general health. These are special cases and are treated accordingly.
Essential elements for determining the orthodontic treatment plan are panoramic X-rays, a lateral cephalometric X-ray, intraoral and extraoral photographs, study models, and the patient’s medical history. Depending on the case, additional diagnostic information may be required.