Orthodontic anomalies are one of the most common conditions in the oral cavity. Today, every second child has significant irregularities within the dental arch, jaw, or face, and anomalies are also noticed in many adult patients. These do not only present an aesthetic issue but can lead to a range of other problems: speech and chewing difficulties, a drop in self-confidence, as well as periodontal diseases and cavities.

1. When is the best time for the first orthodontic check-up?

It is important to bring your child for their first orthodontic check-up at an early age, between 7 and 9 years old, as certain irregularities, such as a lack of space for all permanent teeth or a misaligned bite, can be effectively addressed at this age.

Intervention at an early age can prevent later tooth extractions, create more space for permanent teeth, reduce the possibility of impacted teeth, and correct irregularities such as underbites (where the lower teeth overlap the upper ones) or crossbites.

Each therapy is, of course, individual, as is each anomaly. At this age, the therapy is interceptive (early), and it is necessary to carefully assess the child’s psychological and emotional readiness for cooperation (which depends on their psychological development).

However, there is no age limit for orthodontic therapy, so a first orthodontic check-up is possible even at, for example, 60 years old, or whenever the patient feels ready.

2.What are the orthodontic examinations and diagnostics like?

At the first check-up, the patient learns whether they are a candidate for orthodontic therapy and whether they need it for aesthetic or functional reasons.

It is also determined whether any dental work or preparation is needed before orthodontic therapy. It is necessary to bring an orthopantomogram (panoramic X-ray) to the first check-up, or if you come to the LiderDent Clinic for your first check-up, we will take it there.

The patient is introduced to the system being used, and the advantages of the therapy are explained.

Good diagnostics is half the therapy. Diagnostics is crucial because, without it, the orthodontist cannot treat the patient, i.e., cannot create a therapy plan.

All detailed information is provided after the diagnostics, when the therapy plan is presented, clearly specifying what will be done, how it will be done, with which system, how many check-ups are needed, and when the therapy is expected to end.

Diagnostics include a panoramic X-ray, cephalometric X-ray, dental scan, and a complete set of orthodontic photographs with a full analysis of function and aesthetics.

Then, if needed, a 3D CBCT scan of the teeth or TMJ (temporomandibular joint) will be taken if the doctor decides it is necessary.

A 3D analysis of the model is done on a computer, with a digital analysis of the cephalometric X-ray and CBCT, allowing the orthodontist to know every detail for planning the therapy.

3. Which anomalies can be treated?

There is no anomaly that a good orthodontist cannot treat.

I will list just a few: gaps between teeth, improper bite, open bite, crowded teeth (compression), crossbite, etc.

It is important to understand what falls under orthodontic therapy and what requires a multidisciplinary approach. Often, collaboration with specialists from other fields is needed.

4. What determines which braces will be worn, and what types of braces are there?

Today, the market offers a wide range of braces for various purposes, and it is up to us orthodontists to select the best solution for each individual.

The basic distinction is between removable braces, which are intended for children during growth and development, and fixed braces, which are intended for literally all other patients.

We differentiate between fixed braces placed on the outer side of the teeth (labial) and those placed on the inner side of the teeth (lingual), which are completely invisible.

There are several types of brackets based on the material – metal brackets are the most common, and there are also aesthetic brackets made of plastic, ceramic, and monocrystalline ceramic, also known as sapphire brackets.

The latest brackets, with a special technique, are so-called self-ligating brackets , i.e. self-ligating braces. One of the most well-known and highest-quality options is Damon braces, which are also available at the LiderDent Clinic.

The best fixed braces are those recommended by your orthodontist, who, based on diagnostics and examination, will know the best option for you.

Clear removable aligners are currently the top choice on the market and represent the latest technology.

5. What does the placement of fixed braces look like, does it hurt?

The process of applying fixed braces with brackets takes about an hour and is painless.

Braces consist of brackets that are placed on incisors, canines and premolars; from the tubes or rings that are placed on the molars and from the arch that is connected to the brackets and rings, and because of which the elements act as a whole.

The brackets are glued to the teeth using a soft material that hardens through polymerization and contains fluoride to protect the enamel from demineralization.

First, the upper jaw is done, followed by the lower jaw. The patient calmly sits in the dental chair and relaxes. They leave the clinic with brackets on both jaws and rubber bands in their mouth.

At the clinic, you will receive a hygiene kit with all the instructions you need. You don’t have to worry about what will happen once you get home.

Four hours after the application, the bone remodeling process begins, as cells multiply and the teeth become movable. It will only be uncomfortable, and there is no need for pain medication.

The adjustment process lasts about 10 days and is completely individual, as each patient has a different pain tolerance and reacts differently to the adjustment process.

In the entire process, trust in the orthodontist is the most important thing. That’s where everything starts and ends!