What is Orthodontics

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that aims to ensure the proper alignment of the teeth and jaws. This specialty encompasses treatments that put teeth and jaws in the correct position to improve both aesthetic appearance and oral health. Orthodontic treatments are used to close gaps between teeth, correct crowded teeth, treat bite disorders (for example, cross bite, deep bite, open bite) and regulate jaw development.

Orthodontics can use a variety of treatment tools and methods, such as

Metal Braces: One of the most common orthodontic treatment methods. It allows the teeth to be moved slowly through metal brackets bonded to the front surface of the teeth and wires connecting these brackets.

Ceramic Braces: It works in a similar way to metal braces, but it is more aesthetic because it is made of materials closer to the color of the teeth.

Lingual Braces: These are brackets placed on the inner surface of the teeth, on the side of the tongue. They are invisible from the outside, but more difficult to apply and maintain.

Clear Aligners: A treatment that gradually moves teeth using clear, removable aligners. Invisalign is one of the most well-known examples of this type of treatment.

Functional Appliances: Removable or fixed devices used to regulate jaw development and correct jaw disorders.

Palatal Expander: It is a device used to increase the width of the upper jaw. It is usually used in children with ongoing jaw development.

What does orthodontics treat?

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with the treatment of tooth and jaw irregularities. Using a variety of orthodontic tools and techniques, it provides both aesthetic and functional improvements. Orthodontics is used to treat the following conditions:

Crooked Teeth: A condition in which the teeth are not properly aligned. Crooked teeth can make cleaning difficult and increase the risk of periodontal disease.

Diastema: A condition where there are gaps between the teeth. It can be an aesthetic concern and can be caused by teeth not being properly aligned.

Overbite: A condition where the upper teeth are too prominent compared to the lower teeth. This can cause tooth wear and jaw pain.

Underbite: A condition in which the lower jaw is protruding forward compared to the upper jaw. This can lead to difficulty chewing and speaking.

Cross Bite: When the upper teeth close incorrectly into or out of the lower teeth. This can cause tooth wear and problems with jaw development.

Open Bite: The front or sides of the teeth do not touch each other during the bite. Tongue thrusting habits and some eating habits can cause this condition.

Jaw Disorders: Incompatible growth of the upper and lower jaws. This can have negative effects on chewing, speech and facial aesthetics.

Insufficient Jaw Space: A condition in which the teeth do not have enough space for proper alignment. This can cause teeth to become crowded or not aligned in the proper position.

Habits: Habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting can lead to misalignment of the teeth and jaw.

Who can receive orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment can be applied to individuals of almost any age with tooth and jaw alignment problems. The aim of the treatment is to ensure proper alignment of the teeth, improve chewing and speech functions, maintain oral health and improve aesthetic appearance. People who need orthodontic treatment usually fall into the following categories:

Children and Adolescents: Most orthodontic treatment begins in childhood and adolescence, when jaw development is active and teeth are still being positioned. Evaluation at an early age allows some problems to be avoided or treated with simpler methods.

Adults Orthodontic treatment is not just for children; adults can also receive orthodontic treatment for aesthetic and functional improvements. Adult orthodontics can use traditional braces, clear aligners (e.g. Invisalign), and more aesthetic options to straighten teeth and jaws.

Individuals who are candidates for orthodontic treatment often experience

Crooked teeth

Excessive tooth gaps

Overbite (upper teeth are too far in front of the lower teeth)

Underbite (lower teeth are too far in front of the upper teeth)

Cross bite (incorrect closure of the upper teeth to the outside or inside of the lower teeth)

Open bite (the front or sides of the teeth do not overlap)

Teeth not closing properly

Jaw development disorders

Irregularities in facial aesthetics

How much does orthodontics cost?

Orthodontic treatment prices vary greatly depending on the complexity of the treatment, the type of orthodontic appliance used (such as metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces or clear aligners), the duration of treatment, geographical location and the experience of the orthodontist. In addition, the health care system and insurance coverage of the country where the treatment is performed can also affect prices.

Metal Brackets: Traditional metal braces are usually the most cost-effective option.

Ceramic Brackets: More aesthetically pleasing than metal braces, ceramic braces are usually slightly more expensive.

Lingual Braces: Lingual braces, which are worn on the inner surface of the teeth, are more costly because they are invisible.

Clear aligners (e.g. Invisalign): Clear, removable aligners are usually one of the most expensive orthodontic treatment options.

Orthodontic treatment prices in Turkey can vary widely, and additional services that may be required during the treatment period, such as additional appointments, treatment adjustments or emergency interventions, may be included in the cost. It may be useful to get quotes from several different orthodontists prior to treatment and compare the scope of services offered.

Is orthodontics painful?

The sensations experienced during orthodontic treatment can vary from person to person, but many people experience mild to moderate discomfort during the first days of treatment and after adjustments have been made. This discomfort is usually part of the process of getting used to the new position of the teeth and subsides within a few days. Here is what to expect during orthodontic treatment:

Bonding the Brackets: The process of bonding the brackets to the teeth is painless. However, you may feel a slight discomfort as your mouth remains open for a long time.

Braces Placement and Adjustments: During the treatment, wires are used to move the teeth into the correct position and these wires are adjusted at regular intervals. These adjustments create pressure on the teeth and you may feel pain or discomfort as the teeth begin to move. This sensation usually subsides within a few days.

Movement of the Teeth: As the teeth move into their new position, mild pain or discomfort may be felt, especially during the first few days and after each adjustment. This is a normal part of treatment and will subside as the tissues supporting your teeth and jaws adjust.

Soft Tissue Irritation: The soft tissues in the mouth can be irritated by brackets or wires, especially early in treatment. This diminishes over time and aids such as orthodontic wax can help alleviate this type of discomfort.

To manage discomfort, the following suggestions may be helpful:

Taking pain medication (as recommended by your orthodontist).

Eating soft foods and avoiding hard or sticky foods that require chewing early in the treatment process.

Using orthodontic wax for parts of the mouth that may cause irritation.

How many days does orthodontics take to heal?

Orthodontic treatment is a long-term process aimed at correcting the alignment of the teeth and jaws, and the concept of “recovery” refers to the completion of treatment, not a quick recovery as in traditional medical treatments. The duration of orthodontic treatment varies greatly depending on the age of the patient, the condition of the teeth and jaws, the type of problem to be treated and the orthodontic appliances used. Here is a general guide:

Duration of Treatment: Orthodontic treatment usually lasts between 18 months and 3 years, but simpler cases can last shorter, while complex cases can last longer than 3 years.

Adjustments and Checkups: During treatment, the orthodontist will adjust the brackets, wires or other appliances at regular intervals (usually every 4-6 weeks). These adjustments allow the teeth to slowly move into the correct position.

Expect Fast Recovery: In orthodontic treatment, it takes time for the teeth and jaws to adjust to their new positions. It is important to be patient and follow the orthodontist’s instructions rather than expecting a quick “cure” during this process.

After Treatment: After the treatment is completed, it is usually necessary to wear retainers (fixed or removable retainers) for a period of time to maintain the new position of the teeth. This period is critical to ensure the permanence of the treatment.

How old does orthodontics treat?

Orthodontic treatment can be applied at any age; there is no age restriction. However, the type and approach of orthodontic treatment may vary depending on the age of the patient and the nature of specific dental and jaw problems. Here is general information about orthodontic treatment for different age groups:

Early Evaluation: Orthodontists generally recommend that children have their first evaluation around the age of 7. This is an ideal time to identify potential problems early and intervene early if necessary.

Early Intervention: In some cases, treatment started at an early age can help prevent more complex problems or shorten treatment time.

Most Common Treatment Period: Most orthodontic treatment is done during adolescence. During this period, thanks to rapid growth and development, the alignment of the teeth and jaws can be corrected more effectively.

Increasing Popularity: Orthodontic treatment is becoming increasingly popular among adults. Aesthetic concerns and improved oral health are among the reasons why adults seek orthodontic treatment.

Treatment Options: In addition to traditional metal braces, more treatment options are available for adult patients, such as more aesthetically pleasing ceramic braces, lingual braces and clear aligners (e.g. Invisalign).

Treatment Duration and Complexity: In adults, the movement of teeth and jaws may be slower than in young people, and in some cases the treatment time may be longer. In addition, tooth loss, periodontal disease and other factors that come with age can affect treatment planning.

Does orthodontics correct the jaw?

Orthognathic Surgery: Orthodontic treatment is usually planned in conjunction with orthognathic surgery (jaw surgery) for severe disorders and incongruities in jaw position. In such cases, orthodontic treatment prepares the teeth for surgery and continues after the operation to ensure proper alignment of the teeth and jaws.

Functional appliances: Some jaw growth problems, especially during childhood and adolescence, can be treated with functional appliances used to guide jaw growth. These devices can help the jaw to move into a more favorable position.

Orthopedic devices and functional appliances can guide jaw growth and improve the relationship between the upper and lower jaw. Such devices are usually most effective during periods of growth.

Chin correction procedures usually take time and require patience. The treatment process can take several months to several years to achieve the targeted results.

Orthodontic treatment and, if necessary, maxillofacial surgery can help the teeth and jaws to work in harmony, improving both aesthetic appearance and function.

As jaw growth is complete in adults, major changes in jaw position are often possible with orthognathic surgery. Orthodontics can also improve the alignment of the teeth in adults and when combined with maxillofacial surgery, effective results can be achieved.

What happens if orthodontics is not done?

Failure to undergo orthodontic treatment can lead to various dental and jaw problems worsening over time. Untreated orthodontic problems can have a negative impact not only on aesthetic concerns, but also on oral health and general well-being. Here are some of the problems that can be encountered without orthodontic treatment:

Increased Risk of Tooth Decay and Periodontal Disease: Crooked or crowded teeth make them difficult to clean, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

Wear and Tooth Damage: Abnormal bite patterns can cause the teeth to wear unevenly and cause tooth damage over time. This can increase the risk of teeth breaking or cracking.

Jaw Pain and TMJ Problems: Abnormal bite patterns can create stress and excessive pressure on the jaw joint, which can lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, jaw pain and headaches.

Speech Difficulties: Improper alignment of the teeth and jaw can lead to difficulties in making certain sounds and speech disorders.

Swallowing Difficulties: Abnormal tooth and jaw alignment can cause difficulties when swallowing.

Aesthetic Concerns: Improper alignment of the teeth and jaw can affect a person’s self-confidence and may be perceived negatively in social or professional situations.

Restricted Diet: When dental or jaw problems cause pain or discomfort, people may need to avoid hard or sticky foods, which can have negative effects on nutrition.

More Complex and Costly Treatments: Over time, untreated orthodontic problems can become more complex, resulting in the need for longer and more costly treatments.