What is fixed orthodontic treatment (with braces)?

It is an orthodontic treatment which is applied after all the milk teeth fall out and the permanent teeth find their places in the mouth (approximately at around the age of 12). It is a treatment of approximately 1.5-2.5 years which helps teeth that are crowded to be fixed with the attachment of little square pieces which are called braces that are made of stainless steel or porcelain (transparent) on the surface of the teeth.

What are the types of brackets used in orthodontic treatments?

Two types of braces are used in orthodontic treatment: Metal (Stainless steel) and Ceramic (Clear Porcelain). These braces put to the front surface of the teeth.

The system where the braces are put to the back surface of the teeth is called lingual orthodontics. With this system, no braces are visible since they are all on the back side.

Dental manufacturers started producing self-ligating brackets these days. These brackets, which also have metal and ceramic versions, have faster treatment capabilities compared to the classic brackets.

With the latest technology in dentistry, we can offer bracketless treatments to our patients. This system is called invisalign, and is basically a set of thin, transparent dental appliances which the patient can put on and off.

Does fixed orthodontic treatment damage my teeth?

Orthodontic treatment is not a treatment that damages the teeth. On the contrary, it helps to create a more orderly oral equilibrium by making teeth position properly.

Does fixed orthodontic treatment decay my teeth?

Orthodontic treatment does not have a side effect such as tooth decay. Tooth decay is a result that would occur regardless of orthodontic treatment due to insufficient cleaning of the mouth. The most important issue is the care given to cleaning while the braces are in the mouth.

Does orthodontic treatment cause pain on the teeth?

When the braces are attached, you may feel some dull pain because a certain amount of force is applied on the teeth but usually it might not occur. This situation varies from person to person. This novel feeling would return to normal within 2-3 days. A constant and acute pain is not seen. If we want the minimum pain, we have to take care of the braces very well.

Does fixed orthodontic treatment change the color of the teeth or make them yellow?

Orthodontic braces does not change the colour of the teeth. The reason of the occurance of the color change are the habits (cola, tea, coffee, smoking, wine etc.) and insufficient oral cleaning.

Will my orthodontic treatment be with tooth extraction or not? My friend’s tooth was removed. Will mine, too? We have consulted another orthodontist. He said that extraction is required. Is tooth extraction really necessary?

In orthodontic treatment, tooth extraction is a regularly planned situation. When teeth are too big for the jaw on which they are placed, orthodontic treatment with extraction is considered. Another criterion is the patient’s profile. Teeth may push the lips excessively forward when they are lined up on the jaws without extraction and aesthetic may become critical. Also, in such cases, extraction is considered. Although tooth extraction is perceived as a negative situation, it offers the best solution in such cases in the betterment of the aesthetic look and oral health.

The extraction of the healthy teeth for orthodontic treatment does not seem reasonable to me?

It is one of the most frequently asked questions. Our patients even embark on a quest for a orthodontist that would do orthodontic treatment without extraction. If an example is necessary for it to be more clear, the wisdom teeth of most people we know are removed due to the risk of their causing crowdedness, oral hygiene or lack of space. After all, they are also healthy teeth. Orthodontist decide to extract teeth due to both profile and symmetry issues and lack of space.

Are there any gaps left after tooth extraction?

No, there are not. After the teeth are extracted, with the sliding of the teeth that are on the back and the front with dental braces, extraction gaps are closed. When you are examined by your orthodontist, you can ask for case photos (with tooth extraction).

Do dental braces affect my speech negatively during orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatments that are done by getting support from the front surface of the teeth do not affect your speech.

How frequently will I come to check-ups?

The intervals between the check-ups in orthodontic treatments changes from 4 to 6 weeks. In orthodontic treatments with extraction, this time period may be shorter within the first months.

Do my teeth get harmed when the braces are removed?

The teeth are not damaged during the removal of braces. When the braces are being removed, the adhesive material is separated from tooth surface. Loss of tooth enamel is not seen. Cleaning and polishing processes must be certainly done after the braces are removed.

Does crowdedness come back after the braces are removed?

The front 6-8 teeth are immobilised on each other with a thin wire (retainer) that is attached on the side of the tongue during the removal of the braces. Thus, reversal of the acquired result is prevented. This retainers is absolutely not seen from the outside. After your orthodontic treatment finishes, you should definitely try to keep up with the check-ups that your orthodontist suggested.

Will this retainer spoil my speech?

Usually our orthodontics patients get used to this wire within 1 week and they forget about its presence. These retainers are not too thick to affect your speech.

The edge of my retainer is separated. What should I do?

As soon as possible, before the harmony between the wire and the teeth is lost, consult your orthodontist.

My retainer is completely separated. What should I do?

The complete separation of the retainer may lead to slight crowdedness even within 1-2 days. Thus, get an appointment to have a new one made from your orthodontist as soon as possible.

How long will this retainer stay in my mouth?

It is preferred that this retainer stays in the mouth for at least 5 years. In some cases, its lifelong use may be necessary. Your orthodontist would inform you about this issue.