Orthodontics

Orthodontics is a dental specialty focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating misaligned teeth and jaws. Dentofacial orthopedic specialists correct issues related to facial growth.

Crowded teeth are more difficult to clean, which can lead to tooth decay or gum disease. Misaligned teeth also make chewing harder, potentially causing jaw strain, headaches, and even shoulder or back pain.

Orthodontic treatment repositions the teeth, improving alignment. By distributing the biting force evenly, it enhances the patient’s appearance while promoting the long-term health of teeth, gums, and jaw joints.

How orthodontic treatment works?

During orthodontic treatment, different types of appliances are used which, by exerting slight pressure on the teeth and jaw, can affect both jaw growth (at a certain age) and muscle strength, slowly reposition the teeth.

Orthodontic treatment usually uses fixed or removable appliances. Depending on how complex the patient’s situation is, the orthodontist recommends the most suitable one.

Braces are the most common type of fixed orthodontic appliance. These devices consist of rings, arches, and brackets. The process works as follows: rings anchor to specific teeth, while braces attach to the teeth and connect to an arch. The arch applies pressure, gradually moving the teeth into the desired position. The appliance is adjusted monthly and may be worn for several months to a few years.

Removable aligners (caps) are a popular alternative to traditional braces. They function similarly by gradually shifting teeth but are less noticeable and don’t require arches or brackets. Aligners are removed only when eating, brushing, or flossing.

Lasers in orthodontic treatment

In recent years, laser technology has played an increasingly important role in modern dentistry, including orthodontics. The use of lasers in orthodontic treatment offers several advantages compared to conventional methods.

Our doctors use advanced laser equipment to treat both soft and hard tissues, offering several advantages.

At the start of orthodontic treatment, it’s often necessary to adjust the position of the upper lip or tongue tie. Laser treatment on soft tissues reduces the need for anesthetic injections and eliminates the need for sutures, resulting in a shorter recovery period with minimal pain or discomfort. A key benefit is that patients can move their tongue immediately after surgery, as no stitches are required to close the wound, lowering the risk of the issue recurring. Additionally, the laser’s antimicrobial properties and photobiostimulating effect accelerate tissue healing.

Clinical studies have shown that using lasers to treat tooth enamel before applying braces not only improves the bonding between the enamel and braces but also modifies the hydroxyapatite crystals in the enamel. This reduces the risk of cavities in the decalcified, bacteria-prone areas around the braces.

Lasers are used throughout orthodontic treatment — at the beginning, during adjustments to reduce discomfort after arch replacements, and finally for the atraumatic removal of braces.

Traditional methods of braces removal, which rely on mechanical force, can cause cracks in the tooth enamel, negatively affecting the appearance and function of the teeth. Laser thermal energy simplifies braces removal, reducing patient discomfort and shortening the procedure time. The ease of removal also depends on the material the braces are made from.