Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on identifying and treating various dental and jaw problems. This treatment is often carried out using dental braces, aiming to achieve proper teeth alignment, correct irregularities, and improve jaw relationships. Orthodontics plays a crucial role in both aesthetic and oral health.

Orthodontic Treatment and Methods:

Orthodontic treatment can be applied using braces made of various materials (transparent dental braces, commonly known as Invisalign treatment, are also widely preferred today) or with a wire-free treatment called clear aligner treatment. This treatment is intended to address various dental and jaw problems, including dental misalignments, tooth sizes, abnormalities in jaw positions, gaps between teeth, jaw size, mouth breathing, and facial structure imbalances.

Duration of Orthodontic Treatment:

The duration of orthodontic treatment can vary from person to person. On average, the treatment period can range from 6 to 30 months. The treatment duration may be long or short, depending on the individual's specific condition. Early-started treatments often yield more effective results.

Considerations During Orthodontic Treatment:

Throughout the orthodontic treatment process, patients need to pay special attention to dental care. Regular dental check-up appointments are essential to prevent cavity formation during the treatment, and teeth should be cleaned regularly. Cleaning food debris between braces is also important. Avoiding hard foods and paying special attention to dental hygiene during the treatment process are crucial.

Types of Orthodontic Treatment:

There are various options for orthodontic treatment. Metal braces are one of the most commonly used methods. Lingual braces are wires placed on the back of the teeth, providing a more aesthetic appearance. Transparent braces, made of porcelain, offer a more aesthetic look. Clear aligner treatment, on the other hand, uses specially prepared transparent trays and is highly aesthetic.

Aligner Treatment:

Aligner treatment is an orthodontic treatment method performed through transparent trays without using traditional braces. Custom-made transparent trays are used for the patient's teeth. The trays are changed during the treatment, gradually aligning the teeth. Aligner treatment is a more aesthetic and comfortable option compared to other traditional methods.

Post-Orthodontic Retainer Use:

After completing the treatment, it is recommended to use a special wire or plate called a retainer to maintain the new positions of the teeth. This prevents the teeth from reverting to their old positions and ensures the permanence of the treatment.

Age Limit for Orthodontic Treatment:

There is no age limit for orthodontic treatment. However, early-started treatments are generally more effective. The most suitable time is often before the age of 12, but adults can also undergo orthodontic treatment.

Aligner Treatment and Advantages:

Aligner treatment is more aesthetic and comfortable compared to other methods. Transparent trays are not visually prominent, offering a more pleasing appearance. It is advantageous in terms of treatment duration and tray changes. Aligner treatment produced in Turkey is a local and affordable option.

Dental Brace Treatment:

Crooked teeth are a common issue that many people find troubling in their smiles. Additionally, factors like spaced teeth and discrepancies between jaws can negatively affect both dental alignment and overall facial aesthetics, disrupting chewing function and appearance. Orthodontic treatment, also known as dental brace treatment, offers solutions to these problems.

Orthodontic treatment involves the use of devices, braces, and brackets to correct dental and jaw structure irregularities. Various problems can be addressed through these treatment methods.

Dental brace treatment is typically applied in the following cases:

• - Crowded conditions due to limited space caused by small jaws or oversized teeth.
• - Skeletal discrepancies referred to as Class 2, where the upper jaw is more forward than the lower jaw, or Class 3, where the lower jaw is positioned in front of the upper jaw.
• - Open bite situations, where there is a gap between the upper and lower front teeth when closed.
• - Deep bite situations, where the upper teeth excessively cover the lower teeth.
• - Jaw discrepancies caused by prolonged use of bottles and pacifiers in early childhood.
• - Cases with small tooth sizes relative to jaw width, resulting in gaps between teeth (diastema).
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Orthodontic treatment can be applied to patients of all age groups. Contrary to the misconception that only adolescents and children can benefit from this treatment, orthodontic treatment is suitable for every stage of life. However, in patients with completed bone development, certain skeletal disorders may require "orthognathic surgery."

During orthodontic treatment, special attention is given to oral hygiene. Without proper oral hygiene, teeth can decay quickly during the treatment. Cleaning around braces and wires regularly is important. Accumulated plaque between braces can damage teeth and gums. Therefore, maintaining oral hygiene is crucial during orthodontic treatment. In addition to standard tooth brushing, products like interdental brushes and special dental floss should be used regularly to clean around braces and wires.

Especially during fixed orthodontic treatment, it is essential to avoid consuming hard and crunchy foods, as they can damage braces. The consumption of acidic beverages can also negatively affect tooth and brace adhesion; therefore, such drinks should be avoided.

If removable appliances are used during the treatment, these appliances should only be removed from the mouth for eating. Proper use and cleaning of these appliances, as recommended by the orthodontist, are crucial during the treatment process. Regular visits to the orthodontist are essential for monitoring the treatment process and detecting any potential relapses early.

After the completion of dental brace treatment, there may be minor relapses in misalignments. To prevent this, patients may be fitted with retainers or bonded retainers behind the teeth. Regular check-ups with the orthodontist are important after treatment to monitor for any potential relapses.

Invisible Wire Treatment:

If you are considering different treatment options to achieve the smile you desire, lingual orthodontic applications may be ideal for you. Lingual braces, also known as invisible dental braces, are a method of dental alignment treatment nearly invisible due to their placement on the inner side of the teeth.

In lingual orthodontic applications, dental wires are placed on the inner side of the teeth rather than the outside. Lingual braces have several advantages over traditional braces. One of the most significant advantages is their aesthetic appearance; lingual braces are invisible when viewed from the front and remain completely hidden when you smile. This feature makes them an excellent option for patients who want to avoid traditional dental braces.

Lingual orthodontics helps teeth grow in a straight line by applying small but continuous pressure to the teeth. This treatment method offers an ideal option for patients, especially those with aesthetic concerns.

Lingual braces can be applied to patients of all age groups, but there are some physical limitations. The teeth must be long enough for the placement of lingual wires. Additionally, malocclusions, which are dental bite irregularities, may include situations that are not suitable for lingual orthodontics.

The use of traditional dental braces can negatively impact activities that require close contact, such as sports and playing musical instruments. If you are engaged in such activities and want to avoid traditional dental braces, lingual orthodontics may be more suitable.

Although lingual braces are thin, it is important to remember that they are still dental braces. Therefore, there may be some food restrictions during the treatment. Additionally, the position of lingual braces may initially cause speech difficulties, but this will decrease over time.

Like any dental brace application, lingual braces require special attention to oral hygiene. Lingual braces may require more meticulous dental cleaning. This may require spending more time on oral hygiene during the treatment process.

To evaluate suitable treatment options, determine treatment costs, and consult with expert orthodontists, you can access various options through the health tourism platform FeelinHealthy.

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