Orthodondic Treatments

What is Orthodontic Treatment?

Orthodontic treatment, also known as braces treatment, is frequently chosen by patients today for a healthy and beautiful smile. With advancing technology, individuals of all ages can now achieve a healthy and aesthetically pleasing tooth alignment through braces treatment. Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of irregularities between teeth and between teeth and the face. Orthodontics is not just about treating misaligned teeth. Orthodontic treatment is a branch of dentistry that evaluates the relationship between the teeth and the lips, the harmony between the jaw positions and the facial profile, and, in short, the aesthetic and functional harmony of the teeth and jaws with the entire face.

Invisalign

What is Orthodontic Treatment? What are the Types of Orthodontic Treatment?

Orthodontic treatment is a branch of dentistry that aims to correct dental and jaw abnormalities. This treatment ensures that the teeth and jaw structure are correctly positioned and function harmoniously. During treatment, the dentist uses various tools and appliances, including orthodontic brackets, expanders, and removable and fixed appliances.

The type of treatment varies depending on the material used in orthodontic treatment. The orthodontist determines the treatment protocol according to the patient’s orthodontic treatment needs. These treatment methods are as follows:

Invisalign Aligners

Teeth straightening without braces is a method of teeth straightening that uses alternative solutions to braces. Although these treatment methods vary, they will take longer to produce results than braces. The first of these methods is the application of aligners to the teeth. The teeth are measured. The desired changes to the teeth are applied to the aligners in small increments, and the patient is instructed to use them. As changes occur in the teeth, the aligners are also changed.

Braces

Fixed orthodontic treatment is one of the most commonly preferred dental treatments. The characteristic feature of this treatment is that it involves the use of fixed braces. With this treatment, the patient cannot put the braces on whenever they want. They are fitted at a specified time and remain in the mouth throughout the treatment period (except when the braces are removed and replaced with different ones). This is how fixed orthodontic treatment is carried out. This treatment method has many advantages over other treatment methods. It ensures the highest yield after treatment. It is also used to correct jaw structure and resolve palate problems. Due to these results, it is fair to say that fixed orthodontic treatment is the most commonly preferred orthodontic treatment.

Removable Appliances

Removable appliances consist of an acrylic palate and a wire that passes in front of the teeth. They are removed during meals and remain in the mouth the rest of the time. They are generally applied to children aged 7-11 during the mixed dentition period (when both milk teeth and permanent teeth are present in the mouth). They are used in cases such as correcting narrow jaws. Functional appliances: Appliances used when the jaw positions are too far forward or too far back are called functional appliances. They are preferred for children around 10 years of age whose growth and development are ongoing. Functional treatment can be provided with intraoral appliances, and in necessary cases, improvement in jaw positions can be achieved with additional components such as headgear or face masks.

What is Invisalign Treatment?

Invisalign Treatment; Invisalign is a relatively new and effective treatment that uses computer-generated moulds to realign or correct misaligned or improperly developed teeth. As part of Invisalign treatment, transparent aligners are used to change the position of the teeth. These aligners are developed using computer-generated images and measurements taken from the patient’s mouth.
Whereas traditional braces use fixed wires to align teeth, Invisalign treatment utilises clear aligners to move teeth into their new and improved positions. Invisalign treatment can be applied to almost anyone who wants a more aesthetic smile or better aligned teeth. Young people can also benefit from Invisalign treatment to correct most misalignments in adult teeth. Since clear aligners are used to achieve a brighter smile and better dental health, Invisalign is an ideal treatment for those who dislike the appearance that traditional treatments can cause. It is highly advantageous due to its shorter treatment time and ease of use.
Invisalign treatment is also ideal for adults who want flexibility in the alignment procedure but wish to achieve the desired results without using highly visible metal braces.

Patients wishing to undergo Invisalign treatment undergo a detailed dental examination. Detailed mechanical mapping is obtained by taking X-rays of the mouth, teeth and face from various angles. In some cases, lateral cephalometric X-rays may be required. Finally, measurements are taken of the teeth that will support the Invisalign aligners. In some patients, it may be necessary to apply small composite patches to each tooth so that the Invisalign clear aligners can grip and move each tooth. The patches are made of the same material as composite fillings. At the end of the Invisalign procedure, they are removed very easily and without discomfort.
Another preparatory step, which varies from patient to patient, is determining the amount of interproximal reduction required. This procedure is used to create more space between the teeth when the patient’s mouth is overly crowded. Discs are used to remove a small amount of enamel, allowing the teeth to move more effectively and comfortably in the future. The clear aligners should feel tight when first fitted. Several different moulds may be tried until a perfect fit is achieved. When clear aligners are first worn, changes may be felt in the mouth. This is a natural part of the adjustment process. The initial change will involve a certain level of discomfort, including pain, as the teeth are forced into their new positions. Some patients may experience increased sensitivity in their teeth. This will pass within a short time. A slight difference in speech may occur during the first few weeks.

Clear aligners are replaced every one or two weeks, depending on the dentist’s decision. If the teeth have not reached the desired position, the period may be extended. Each new aligner is designed as the next step in the movement of the teeth. This guides the teeth towards the intended alignment goal. Each patient’s mouth and teeth structure and needs are different. The duration of Invisalign treatment is directly related to the complexity of the problem to be addressed. Therefore, the treatment period can vary between 6 months and 2 years.

Clear aligner orthodontics is a customised treatment type. A 3D digital scan of your teeth is taken using an intraoral scanner and reviewed on screen. During the same session, you can see the planned position of your teeth at the end of treatment through a digital orthodontic treatment simulation. Invisalign aligners come as a series of clear aligners, each replaced every 1 to 2 weeks. You need to wear the clear aligners for 20 hours a day. The ability to remove the aligners during meals or on special occasions also makes your social life easier. The aligners are not visible when viewed from the outside or in photographs and do not adversely affect your speech. Clear aligner treatment, which is frequently preferred by adults, can also be applied to children today.

Invisalign first; With the first clear aligner treatment, children with milk teeth can also receive comfortable and effective orthodontic treatment. Before treatment, a digital three-dimensional (3D) measurement of the teeth is obtained using an intraoral scanner. During the same session, photographs of the patient’s teeth and face are taken. These data are analysed digitally to plan the treatment. The required number of clear aligners for the treatment plan are produced by a printer without human intervention and delivered to your orthodontist. Following your orthodontist’s recommendation, the clear aligners are changed every 5-7 days. For example, if your treatment requires a total of 15 aligners, changing the aligners every 5 days means you can expect to achieve the desired result in a total of 75 days. Your dentist will give you a certain number of clear aligners and call you in for a check-up every 2-3 months on average. You can track the aligner changes yourself using the Invisalign app downloaded to your smartphone. Invisalign First is used for treatment applied to children with milk teeth, while Invisalign Teen treatment is used for young people whose milk teeth have fallen out and whose permanent teeth are coming in.

The reasons for undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment vary depending on the problems experienced by individuals. Fixed orthodontic treatments may be performed as a result of tooth misalignment. This is both beneficial for health and to achieve an aesthetic appearance. In addition, fixed orthodontic treatments may be performed due to problems with the palate and jaw joints. Following these treatments, bone irregularities are corrected, preventing potential future problems and achieving an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Beyond these reasons, fixed treatment may be chosen to achieve the most effective results. While these are the primary reasons, there may be various other reasons for undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment.

What is Brace Treatment?

Fixed Braces Treatment; Fixed orthodontic appliances are devices that are bonded to the teeth during treatment and cannot be removed by the patient. Fixed appliances, which offer greater control over tooth movement, are preferred over removable appliances in the treatment of many orthodontic problems as they yield better results. In fixed orthodontic treatment, which involves the use of fixed appliances commonly referred to as braces, tubes or bands are attached to the molars and brackets are attached to the other teeth. These appliances remain on the surface of the teeth until the end of orthodontic treatment and cannot be moved. Once the archwires are bonded to the teeth with bands and brackets, they begin to move the teeth into their correct positions. Wires that have completed their function during treatment are replaced with new ones.

The duration of fixed orthodontic treatment varies depending on the issues involved. In cases of significant tooth movement, the treatment period is extended accordingly. Conversely, minor issues result in a shorter duration. Additionally, addressing multiple issues within the treatment plan, such as tooth and palate correction, prolongs the treatment time. Naturally, the process takes longer because the palate must settle first before the teeth can be corrected. With this information in mind, average time frames can also be provided. Orthodontic treatment for the smallest problems starts at 8 months. Depending on the severity of the problem, treatment can last up to 4 years.

What is Removable Appliances?

Removable Orthodontic Appliances; Unlike fixed appliances, removable orthodontic appliances can be taken out of the mouth at any time as they are not attached to the teeth. Removable orthodontic appliances include space maintainers, jaw expanders, retention appliances and habit-breaking appliances. Removable orthodontic appliances can be customised to fit the patient’s mouth to assist with their treatment plan. Removable orthodontic appliances used to correct simple malocclusions are generally divided into two groups. The first group is suitable for simple tooth movements. The second group of removable orthodontic appliances is used to move the jaw. They are designed to apply force to the teeth via spring screws and other mechanical components. Removable orthodontic appliances can be used to enhance the effect of fixed orthodontic appliances in more complex treatments. Additionally, functional appliances are used; appliances used when the jaw positions are too far forward or too far back are called functional devices. They are preferred in children around 10 years of age whose growth and development are ongoing. While functional treatment can be provided with intraoral devices, in necessary cases, improvement in jaw positions can be achieved with additional components such as headgear or face masks.

What are the Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment?

Straightening crooked teeth or closing gaps between teeth reduces the amount of food debris that accumulates between teeth, making it easier to maintain oral hygiene. This reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. It also improves aesthetics. If there is a malocclusion, orthodontic treatment results in an increase in chewing efficiency. It minimises jaw joint disorders that may occur as a result of incompatible jaw closure. It eliminates the physical factor causing speech disorders (phonation disorders) resulting from the incorrect position of the teeth. However, it is not a standalone treatment option for speech disorders, and speech therapy is always beneficial.

While one of the greatest benefits of orthodontic treatment is straight teeth and a beautiful smile, it is not just about looking good. In fact, when orthodontists recommend the most suitable treatment for their patients, they generally evaluate a number of factors that will enable better oral hygiene, less tooth wear and long-term dental health. These include the alignment of the bite, the way the teeth fit together, and the position of the jaw.
Although problems requiring orthodontic treatment are often assessed solely for their cosmetic effects, if orthodontic treatment is not applied, extra care must be taken to clean the teeth throughout life. Crowded and crooked teeth can make access to the teeth difficult. In some cases, it can make flossing impossible. This can lead to a lack of protection against plaque and tartar, which can cause tooth loss and gum disease.
If a crossbite problem, where a single upper tooth or group of teeth sits behind the opposing lower teeth, is not resolved, irregular wear on the teeth will occur.

In severe cases, teeth may crack or break. Overcrowded teeth can also cause uneven wear and long-term damage to the teeth. Similarly, as it becomes more difficult to clean the teeth, there may be a risk of extra plaque formation, decay, tartar, gum disease and tooth loss.
When the jaw is closed, the front teeth not meeting can result in difficulty chewing. In some cases, it can also affect speech. It can cause potential problems in the temporomandibular joints that connect the jawbone to the skull. Since the teeth cannot meet properly, the jaw is forced into an unnatural position. This can cause discomfort and fatigue over time.
If the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth excessively vertically, uneven wear and tear may occur, leading to permanent damage such as cracking and chipping of the teeth.

When the upper teeth protrude excessively beyond the lower teeth horizontally, the front teeth become susceptible to trauma. In severe cases, malocclusion can cause long-term changes in the appearance and shape of the face.
If early intervention is not undertaken, more serious intervention may be required in the future. Orthodontic treatment should not be neglected to avoid such problems.

What are orthodontic problems?

Orthodontic problems can affect both children and adults, even those who wore braces in their youth, in later years. This is because teeth are much more mobile than one might think. Teeth always move very slowly in response to normal biting and chewing forces.

In cases where young children develop bad habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, teeth may be pushed out of their proper alignment. These and other orthodontic problems usually appear around the age of 7, when permanent teeth begin to emerge. Therefore, it is recommended that all children of this age undergo an orthodontic assessment.
Crooked teeth, gaps between teeth, impacted teeth, protruding jaw problems, denture issues, rotated teeth, malocclusion, missing teeth, narrow jaws, and misalignment of the midlines are all classified as ‘malocclusion’ in teeth. Mild malocclusion generally does not require any treatment, but in cases of severe malocclusion, the dentist will refer the patient to an orthodontist. Different treatment methods may be applied depending on the condition of the malocclusion.
Orthodontics, a branch of dentistry that deals with malocclusions where teeth are misaligned and therefore unable to function properly, can be used to improve both oral health and cosmetic appearance. It is performed on individuals with crooked, bent, or structurally abnormal teeth and mouth structures.
Many orthodontic problems are hereditary. Examples of these genetic problems include crooked teeth, protruding teeth, gaps between teeth, missing or extra teeth, and certain jaw growth problems. Other malocclusions are acquired later in life. In other words, they develop over time. Thumb sucking or finger sucking, mouth breathing, dental diseases, poor dental hygiene, loss of permanent teeth, accidents, poor nutrition, early or late loss of milk teeth, and certain medical conditions can cause malocclusion. In some cases, a hereditary problem can be complicated by an acquired malocclusion.

What are the Advantages of Invisalign Treatment?

Aesthetics: The use of transparent aligners does not compromise the aesthetic appearance.
Comfort: Transparent aligners are made from smooth plastic, which is much more comfortable than traditional metal braces.
Customised; they have no sharp edges and are entirely custom-made.
Removable; because they can be removed, they are more comfortable than other alternatives during tooth brushing, eating and daily life.
Treatment and number of sessions; in addition to being a treatment method that is completed in a shorter time than traditional methods, the intervals between doctor appointments are also longer than with traditional methods. This saves time.

At What Age Should Orthodontic Treatment Be Performed?

The first orthodontic check-up appointment should be scheduled for children aged 6-7 years. However, orthodontic treatment can be applied to patients of any age, provided there is no gum disease or tissue loss.

How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment Take?

The duration of orthodontic treatment varies from person to person. While the treatment of a simple misalignment may take 3 months, a more complex treatment may require 1.5-2 years. If you follow the rules properly, do not break your braces, and attend your dental check-ups regularly once a month, you can be sure that there will be no extension to the time frame given to you by your doctor. The duration of Invisalign treatment is directly related to the complexity of the problem to be addressed. Therefore, the treatment period can vary between 6 months and 2 years.

Is Orthodontic Treatment Painful?

At the start of orthodontic treatment, braces are applied to the teeth by bonding them in place over a period of approximately half an hour. No pain is felt when the braces are fitted. Following the application session, a feeling of tightness is experienced in the teeth for 2-3 days. This is due to the pressure exerted by the force applied through the braces on the fibres connecting the teeth to the bone. Braces cause tension in the fibres around the teeth, which initiates tooth movement. A few days after the movement begins, the feeling of pressure diminishes and disappears. The absence of pain or pressure in the teeth during orthodontic treatment does not mean that the teeth are not moving.

Do teeth return to their original position after orthodontic treatment?

Teeth are a dynamic structure within the mouth. No matter how much orthodontic treatment you have undergone, human teeth always tend to move forward. Therefore, tooth movement continues throughout life in every individual, whether they have undergone braces treatment or not, even if it is not noticeable from the outside. At the end of orthodontic treatment, the elastic fibres between the teeth and the bone tend to move the teeth back to their original position. For this reason, a retention treatment, which varies depending on each case, is essential after braces treatment. In many cases, a thin protective wire called a ‘fixed retainer’ is used, which is attached to the back surface of the front teeth. The protective dental wire is not visible from the outside and does not bother the patient. It is one of the best and most effective methods used to prevent teeth from shifting after orthodontic treatment. It can remain in the mouth for years as it does not require patient cooperation. In some cases, retention treatment is provided with transparent aligners. The advantage of retention treatment with transparent aligners is that you can comfortably use dental floss when you remove them. However, as it is a removable device, it requires patient cooperation. Following the completion of braces treatment, the patient must use these aligners regularly without losing them or neglecting to wear them. With the correct use of retention devices, the teeth that have been levelled through orthodontic treatment are prevented from returning to their original position.

Do Porcelain Teeth Prevent Orthodontic Treatment?

Porcelain teeth do not prevent orthodontic treatment. In this case, brackets can be attached to the porcelain surface using special adhesives.

Can I have an MRI scan while wearing braces?

Braces do not pose an obstacle to MRI scans in areas where they do not interfere with the image, in other words, in areas of the body other than the head and neck region. However, if an MRI scan is to be performed on the head and neck region, where the images obtained are crucial for diagnosis, and where braces may interfere with the image, it may be necessary to remove the braces.

Will people notice my Invisalign aligners?

The transparent aligners, produced entirely in a digital environment using devices that predict your daily movements based on a digital copy of your jaw structure, are made from a material so transparent that they are barely noticeable in the mouth. Although you may experience some adaptation issues with your speech initially, this problem resolves within a few days and no one will notice your treatment process.

Can aligner treatment fail?

With transparent aligners in orthodontic treatment, the treatment goal and course are determined by the dentist in a virtual environment, eliminating unpredictable and undesirable tooth movements. However, if the patient is uncooperative and does not follow the dentist’s instructions, the desired result may not be achieved. It is very important for the patient to cooperate with the dentist throughout the treatment.

In aligner treatment, is it sufficient to wear the aligners only at night?

The aligners must be worn for at least 20-22 hours, including while sleeping at night. The aligners may only be removed while eating. Wearing the aligners only at night will not achieve the desired treatment goal.

Regular braces? Or aligner treatment?

As the force and tooth movements to be applied in transparent aligner treatment are predetermined, treatment can be completed in a shorter time compared to traditional wire braces, particularly in mild to moderate malocclusions, provided the patient uses the aligners as instructed.

How long does aligner treatment take?

The duration of treatment varies for each patient depending on the severity of the malocclusion. The number of aligners is determined according to the plan made after the patient’s materials have been collected. The patient is instructed to change their aligners every seven days. Therefore, the treatment duration for a patient requiring 40 aligners will be approximately 40 weeks.

Do aligners produce odours?

If transparent aligners are not properly maintained, they may develop an unpleasant odour. Therefore, great care must be taken when brushing them. They should be cleaned morning and evening using liquid soap, lukewarm water and a toothbrush.

Traditional braces or Invisalign aligner orthodontic treatment?

Invisalign treatment offers several advantages: it is more aesthetically pleasing, provides greater comfort when eating and drinking, involves fewer restrictions, does not feature brackets that could damage the mouth or lips, and has a shorter treatment duration. Bracket-based orthodontic treatment, on the other hand, is a more affordable treatment option.