Orthodontics

Orthodontics
What is orthodontics
Orthodontics is the widely recognized specialization of dentistry that deals with the movement of the teeth in the dental arches and the guidance of the growth of the jaws in order to achieve a harmonious, functional and esthetic occlusion.

Through the correct treatment plan and the new materials and innovative techniques almost all orthodontic problems can be successfully treated in children, adolescents, as well as adults. Every patient can alter his/her appearance and benefit from a healthy and attractive smile.

Orthodontic procedure
The procedure of orthodontic therapy includes the following: the first informational visit, the detailed orthodontic examination, the treatment plan and discussion, the treatment, the appointment for the placement of braces, or Invisalign or Incognito, or for removable or fixed appliances, the regular visits, the duration of the therapy and finally the retention phase.
During the first information visit, the first acquaintance of the orthodontist with the patient takes place. At Dental Group we pursue to create a cozy and friendly atmosphere, and to provide the opportunity to our patient to express his/her concerns regarding his/her looks and also his/her desires for the new smile.
During this visit a first examination of the oral condition of the patient takes place. All the available options of therapy are provided, such are the estimated start time of the therapy, its duration and its estimated cost.

If the patient decides to start the therapy, he/she should make a new appointment for a detailed orthodontic examination.

The first step towards the establishment of the treatment plan is the accumulation of as many information as possible regarding the orthodontic condition of your teeth. This includes:

Α) Full medical and dental history

Β) Full orthodontic examination, during which the face, the teeth and the occlusion are evaluated

C) Collection of a series of diagnostic information such as:

  • digital impressions of the teeth
  • digital photos of your face and your teeth
  • X-rays: panoramic and skull projection

All the aforementioned data allow the orthodontist to analyze every case and propose an individualized treatment plan. Additionally, this information is used as a starting point reference.

The orthodontist will discuss with you every detail of the proposed treatment plan as well as an alternative one. In parallel, you will have the opportunity to ask questions, discuss all your concerns and express your desires. Finally, you will be informed about the final cost of the therapy and the payment options.

After the final acceptance of the proposed treatment plan, the actual treatment can start.

The treatment starts with the placement of the orthodontic braces or with the construction of fixed or removable appliances.
On the way to a bright smile

If you choose to proceed with orthodontics therapy including braces, you will have to schedule the first big appointment, during which the orthodontist will place the braces, initially, on the teeth of one jaw. This appointment usually lasts for about an hour. From that moment you are on your way for the smile of your dreams.

At a second appointment the attachment of the braces on the other jaw will take place.

The future appointments of the therapy are of shorter duration of about 20 minutes.

And don’t forget that the world seems better and brighter behind a beautiful smile.

If you choose to proceed with an orthodontics treatment with the system of transparent Invisalign bite guards, you will have to schedule your first big appointment during which the orthodontist will take digitally scan your teeth to design and construct the Invisalign clear aligners. These scans will be sent to the United States where a digital model of your mouth will be designed. On this model with the cooperation of the orthodontist the necessary movements of your teeth will be determined in order to be set in the right places.

 

After six weeks, on the second appointment the first transparent pair of aligners will be provided to you. On that appointment the orthodontist will give you all the necessary guidelines for the placement and the care of those aligners. He will recommend you to wear the aligners all the time for the therapy to be effective. Their removal is allowed only during meals and oral hygiene practices.

During the future regular visits, the progress of the therapy is estimated and the next pair of aligners is provided. The total duration of the therapy and the number of pairs of aligners varies from patient to patient.

If you choose for your orthodontics’ therapy the lingual braces Incognito you will have to schedule your first big appointment where the orthodontist will digitally scan your teeth to construct your lingual braces.

After six weeks on a second appointment, the dentist will place the lingual braces on the back surface of your teeth on the one jaw and will provide you with all the necessary guidelines. At the next appointment the rest of the braces will be placed on the other jaw.

You can now on start to smile. Nobody will know except you that you are wearing braces.

In view of the next regular visits the orthodontist will monitor the progress of the therapy and will make all the necessary modifications.

If the use of a fixed or removable appliance is necessary, then a first big appointment will be scheduled, during which the orthodontist will take impressions of the teeth to construct the chosen appliance.

On a second appointment the orthodontist will provide or will place the orthodontic appliance in your mouth.

During the next regular visits the monitoring and the evaluation of the therapy will take place.

The visits at your orthodontist take place every 4 to 8 weeks and are a significant part of your therapy. The frequency depends on the type of therapy. These regular visits last for about 20 to 40 minutes.

During these meetings the orthodontist makes modifications of your orthodontic appliances. The orthodontist changes the wires or modifies the position of the braces. If the type of therapy is the one of Invisalign aligners, at these visits the next pair of aligners will be provided to you and the movements of the teeth will be monitored. Moreover, the orthodontist will inform you about the progress of your therapy.

The progress and duration of your therapy largely depends on your cooperation with the orthodontist, the consistency to the appointments, the care of the orthodontic appliances and the correct oral hygiene practice.

The reward: a beautiful smile

The duration of the orthodontic therapy varies from 6 months to 3 years. The exact time depends on the severity of the initial problem, the favorable or not development of the face/jaws, the general health of the teeth or gums, the amount of bony support of the teeth, the age and finally the degree of cooperation of the patient with the orthodontist.

Problems of a smaller extent usually require less time. Every patient is unique and because of that the duration of the therapy cannot be defined with absolute accuracy.

The participation of the patient during the therapy plays a significant role in the progress, the speed and even the quality of the result of the therapy.

The duration of the therapy may be prolonged when there is inconsistency to visits, and constant detachments of the braces and inefficient cooperation.

The therapy can even be interrupted when the patient does not follow the guidelines given, does not take care of the orthodontic appliances and neglects his/her oral hygiene.

Even though the orthodontic therapy requires a significant amount of time, at the end the patients are rewarded with a correct occlusion and a beautiful smile that will change their view of life.

The effort that you will put into the therapy will help you achieve what you’ve always wanted: a healthy Bright Smile. This will be your reward.

And don’t forget that smiling is contagious.

After the completion of the therapy in order for you to preserve your teeth at their new positions, you will need some kind of retention device. This offers the necessary stabilization of the teeth in order to preserve the result of the therapy. This phase is equally important to the phase of the therapy with braces.

The retention can be fixed or removable.
The fixed retention consists of a thin wire that is placed by the orthodontist on the back surface of the front teeth of the lower or the upper jaw. It is not visible and does not cause any discomfort while chewing or speaking. It cannot be removed by the patient and this is why the patient should be more loyal to oral hygiene practices and consistent to the regular recalls by the orthodontist

The removable retention can be done either with transparent splints or with acrylic mouth guards of Hawley type. The patient must wear them on a daily basis according to the guidelines of the orthodontist, otherwise the teeth will change position. The patient should also take care and preserve them in a good condition.

Because most patients usually neglect to use the removable retainers, the fixed wire is recommended for the preservation of the result of the orthodontic therapy.

Finally, the regular monitoring of all kind of retainers is recommended.

Orthodontic problems
Orthodontic problems can either be related to the teeth, when the teeth are not in the correct position (i.e tooth crowding), or to the jaws, when the jaws have not been harmonically developed (i.e prognathism, retrognathism, open bite etc), or to the combination of dental and skeletal problems. Based on a correct diagnosis and a proper treatment plan these problems can be treated with great success.

Orthodontic problems are due to either hereditary or environmental causes or bad habits or even a combination of all these factors. Therefore, an early orthodontic evaluation is recommended. Depending on the cause, an early phase of orthodontic therapy may be required.

Tooth crowding
It is the most common orthodontic problem. It is caused due to the lack of available space for the teeth. This usually derives when there is no harmony between the size of the teeth and the jaws. In these cases, oral hygiene practice is not easy, and hence there is a high risk for dental carries. In addition, the more severe the crowding the more intense the aesthetic problem.

Spacing between teeth
The most common cause is the lack of harmony between the size of the teeth and the jaws, resulting in teeth being very small in relation to the size of the jaws. Another cause is the presence of impacted teeth or congenital missing teeth.

Protruding teeth
In this condition the upper front teeth protrude from the lower front teeth. The main causes are hereditary reasons (lack of harmony between the upper and the lower jaw), the prolonged sucking of the fingers or use of a pacifier and the frontal projection of the tongue during swallowing. Apart from the aesthetic problem there is a high risk of trauma or fracture of the teeth particularly in children.

Anterior cross-bite
In this condition the lower teeth protrude and cover the upper teeth, while the back teeth are in contact. The most common cause is heredity, when there is a lack of harmony between the upper and lower jaw. A regular orthodontic examination is recommended. An early phases of orthodontic treatment is usually recommended.

Posterior cross-bite.
In this condition the upper back teeth are to an inner position as regards the lower back teeth. In these cases, the upper jaw is usually more narrow than the lower one. The main cause is heredity when there is a lack of harmony between the upper and the lower jaw. Another cause is the prolonged sucking of the finger or use of a pacifier.

Χασμοδοντία ή ανοιχτή δήξη (δάγκωμα)
Όταν τα άνω πρόσθια δόντια δεν καλύπτουν τα κάτω πρόσθια δόντια, ενώ τα πίσω δόντια είναι σε επαφή. Τα κύρια αίτια είναι η κληρονομικότητα, όταν δηλαδή υπάρχει δυσαρμονία μεταξύ της άνω και της κάτω γνάθου, η παρατεταμένη χρήση της πιπίλας, ο θηλασμός του δακτύλου ή η πρόσθια θέση της γλώσσας κατά την κατάποση. Όταν το αίτιο είναι σκελετικό, συνήθως εμφανίζεται και ουλικό χαμόγελο.

Hyper-occlusion (Deep bite)
In this condition the upper front teeth totally cover the lower teeth. This increases the risk of trauma of the gums The main cause is heredity, when there is a lack of harmony between the upper and the lower jaw.

Retrognathism of the lower jaw
In this condition the lower jaw is in a more frontal position than the upper jaw. It can be accompanied by either protruding upper front teeth or not. The main cause is heredity when there is a lack of harmony between the upper and the lower jaw.

Prognathism of the lower jaw
In this condition the lower jaw is in a more frontal position that the upper jaw. The upper and lower teeth do not occlude normally, with the lower front teeth to be in a more frontal position in relation to the upper front teeth. An intense aesthetic problem usually is present. The most common cause is heredity when there is a lack of harmony between the upper and the lower jaw.

Asymmetry
In this condition the center lines of the front teeth of the upper and the lower jaw do not match. The main cause is heredity when there is a lack of harmony between the upper and the lower jaw, and there is also a high risk of jaw a trauma, or an early loss of deciduous teeth or a congenital lack of teeth.

Congenital missing teeth
In this condition one or more teeth are missing from the dental arch. The diagnosis is possible with the help of X-rays. The most common cause is heredity. It involves, usually, the upper lateral teeth or the lower front molar teeth.

Supernumerary teeth
In this condition we have more teeth in the mouth as compared to the normal number of teeth. It involves either deciduous or permanent teeth. The problem is mostly hereditary and is treated usually with the extraction of the supernumerary teeth and with the alignment of the remaining teeth.

Impacted teeth
In this condition some of the teeth cannot emerge in the mouth but remain in the bone, usually due to the lack of space or improper tooth orientation. The most common teeth that are impacted are the wisdom teeth and the upper canine teeth. An orthodontic evaluation is recommended especially for the examination of the canine teeth. Depending on the cause an early phase of orthodontics’ therapy may be needed.

Ectopic teeth
In this condition some teeth erupt in an abnormal position in the dental block. The most common cause is heredity or lack of space.

Causes of orthodontic problems

The orthodontic problems are either due to hereditary or environmental reasons, or bad habits, or even to a combination of all the aforementioned factors. The hereditary factors (DNA) refer to the shape and the size of the teeth, the size of the jaws, the disproportional size among the teeth and the jaws, the congenital missing teeth etc. If for instance, a child inherits from the one parent big teeth and from the other small jaws then we will have crowded teeth.

The environmental factors refer to incidents either before or after birth, or to bad habits.
The harmful factors before birth include the complications or injuries or pressures of the embryo inside the uterus.
The harmful factors after birth include food disorders, febrile illnesses, endocrine disorders, injuries, even caries of the deciduous and permanent teeth.

Harmful habits, like the prolonged sucking of the thumb or other fingers, the prolonged use of the pacifier and the projection of the tongue during swallowing, can cause movements of the teeth and abnormal occlusion.

In every orthodontic problem regardless the cause, the early diagnosis is the key to a successful treatment.

Contact us and schedule your appointment with our orthodontist..

Orthodontics for children
When does the orthodontics therapy begin
The exact start time of the orthodontic treatment depends on the type and the severity of the orthodontic problem. The orthodontist is the one who will determine the best time to start the therapy.

Some children may need to start orthodontic therapy at the age of 6-9 in order to prevent dental or skeletal problems to occur. This includes the early orthodontic treatment. If an early orthodontic therapy is not necessary, then children should wait until the emergence of all permanent teeth. This usually takes place at the age of 9-13 for girls and 11-15 for boys. At this point, the reconstructive orthodontic therapy starts.

It is wrong to believe that the emergence of the permanent teeth should be first completed in order to have an orthodontic evaluation. Unfortunately, parents are disappointed when they discover that an orthodontic problem of their child could be more easily treated, if the preventive actions of the therapy were initiated in a younger age.

ορθοδοντικη για παιδια

The first phase of orthodontic treatment does not apply to all orthodontic problems nor is it mandatory for all children. Its need will be determined by the orthodontist. It usually begins at the ages of 6-9, when dental problems occur. These originate from an early loss of deciduous teeth, the prolonged use of a pacifier or the sucking of a finger or finally, from bone issues. Its duration lasts for about a year.

The early therapy prevents the progression of skeletal or dental problems. At this phase braces are not usually used. Instead, various extra-oral or intraoral orthodontic appliances are used, such as appliances for space preservation, for expansion of the palate, for the arrest of bad habits. The early therapy does not usually abolish the need for orthodontic treatment with braces in the future (reconstructive). It is just that the future therapy will be shorter, easier and cheaper.

The early orthodontic therapy is recommended in the following cases:

  • Early loss of deciduous teeth
  • Prolonged use of pacifier or sacking of the fingers
  • Forwarding of the tongue during swallowing
  • Anterior cross-bite, when the upper front teeth close behind the lower front teeth
  • Posterior cross-bite, when the upper back teeth close behind the lower teeth
  • Lack of space for the emergence of the permanent teeth.
  • Supernumery teeth.
  • Prognathism
  • Open-bite

Through the early therapy, in general, we can prevent orthodontic problems that may appear during adolescence, as well as avoid functional malfunctions. Furthermore, through the early intervention we are able to facilitate the correct development of the child and the more harmonic proportions of the jaws and also of the facial aesthetics.

The early therapy provides the orthodontist with the abilities to:

  • Preserve the space for the emergence of the permanent teeth in the case of an early loss of the deciduous teeth.
  • Gain space intended for the permanent teeth that are expected to emerge.
  • Stop harmful habits (pacifier, sucking of fingers, projection of the tongue).
  • Reduce the danger of a possible trauma or loss of projected teeth.
  • Restore the proper relationship of the front teeth.
  • Broaden the upper jaw.
  • Create space for the emergence of the permanent teeth through the extraction of the deciduous teeth on proper timing.
  • Reduce the likelihood of permanent teeth to remain impacted.
  • Guide the proper development of the jaws.
  • Correct the smile of the child and improve his/her image and self-esteem.
  • Make the orthodontic treatment simpler and shorter in time if needed in the future.
  • Make easier the processes of chewing and breathing.

Contribute to the harmonical development of the facial dimensions and proportions.

Orthodontics for adolescents
For a confident smile
Teenagers comprise the largest group of orthodontic patients. For the adolescents the right age to start orthodontic treatment is after the eruption of all permanent teeth. This phase of orthodontic therapy is called second phase or reconstructive orthodontics.

Reconstructive Orthodontics mainly treats orthodontic problems present after the permanent teeth have erupted. At this phase braces or other orthodontic appliances are used to improve function and aesthetics. This second phase of treatment occurs independently of whether an early orthodontic treatment has taken place in the past or not. The exact time of the initiation of the therapy is determined by the orthodontist and depends upon the orthodontic problem and the stage of the dental and skeletal development of the patient.

For the majority of the patients the reconstructive orthodontic treatment starts during adolescence. For the girls the suitable ages are among 9- 13 years old and for the boys 11-15 years old.

At these ages the rate of development of the patient is increased. The orthodontist takes advantage of this in order to move the teeth to the correct position, restore a harmonic occlusion and provide, at the same time, a healthy and beautiful smile. The improvement all the facial aesthetics of teenagers plays a significant role because it boosts their self-esteem and self-respect in a critical period of their lives.

Braces are used to impose forces on the teeth in order to move them to a better position that improves function and aesthetics.

Braces (brackets) attach to every tooth individually on their front or the back surface and remain there during the whole treatment period. Modern braces are smaller, more discreet and more comfortable as compared to the ones the orthodontists used several years ago. They are made of various materials such as stainless steel, titanium, porcelain (ceramic) gold or combination of materials. Similarly, the wires that are used are made of materials like nickel, titanium, steel, copper or a combination of the aforementioned materials.

Braces require a more thorough oral hygiene practice. Otherwise, the danger of developing caries, periodontal disease and white spots’ appearance is increased.

At Dental Group we offer orthodontic treatment services of high quality and high standards, implementing orthodontic mechanisms and appliances of all kinds. We utilize the new technologies and the modern practices achieving exceptional results.

Apart from the traditional, conventional braces we are equipped with the totally invisible braces, known as the lingual (Incognito) braces, which are placed on the back surface of the teeth. Furthermore, there is another type of braces, the porcelain (ceramic, clear) braces, that are white, almost transparent, at the color of the teeth. Even without the use of braces we can achieve the same results, using removable, transparent and comfortable mouth guards of exceptional aesthetic nature, known as Invisalign type aligners.

The choice though depends on your needs and the treatment plan applied. Your orthodontist will tell you what kind of braces are the most suitable for you.

The type of the braces you are going to choose, depends on various factors, such as:

  • The type of the recommended therapy
  • The duration of the treatment
  • The cost of the therapy.
  • Your personal preference

Options available for teenagers
The options available for teenagers are numerous:

First Informational Visit

Every smile starts with a full first evaluation

It is our goal that your first visit to the orthodontist is a pleasant and constructive experience. Ιt will be an excellent opportunity for us to meet you, talk to you and answer to your questions. You will have all the time needed for your information on the possibilities of modern Orthodontics, the types of orthodontic therapy and the stages of your therapy. The more knowledge you acquire the better the results will be.

During this first evaluation you will be informed on the following issues:

  • The type of orthodontic problems you are suffering from.
  • The recommended treatment plan, if needed.
  • The types of orthodontic appliances needed.
  • The duration of the therapy.
  • The cost of the therapy and the payment options.

Based on this information you will decide if you will proceed or not. If you do proceed, a second appointment will be set for a more detailed and thorough evaluation.

It is our belief that in an atmosphere of mutual trust, we will pursue the most comfortable, pleasant and satisfying orthodontic therapy. We are committed at your service to help you gain the smile you have always wanted.

FaQ

At which age should the first orthodontic examination take place?

The first orthodontic examination is recommended to take place at the ages of 6-7. The orthodontist will detect if there are any orthodontic problems even if the teeth seem straight.

Moreover, the parents should be aware of the fact that the early treatment of orthodontic problems can prevent or reduce the possibility of more serious problems in the future. On the contrary, the more the first examination is delayed the more the child is possible not to be able to benefit from types of therapies that could lead to better results when applied at younger ages.

Which bad habits of the children warn the parents for the need of an early examination?

The bad habits that should warn the parents about the need of an early orthodontic examination are the following:

  • The sucking of the thumb or of another finger
  • The use of a pacifier
  • The interference or biting of the lower lip
  • The tongue thrust
  • The biting of the nails or other hard particles
  • The bruxism or the abnormal occlusion of the teeth during the day time.

If these bad habits continue to occur for a long period of time, after the age of 3 or 4 years old, the parents should visit an orthodontist.

Will my child be able to participate in sports when wearing braces?

Of course he/she will. However, it is recommended that the child wears a protective athletic mouth-guard particularly when participating in sports, where there is physical contact of the players and there is a high risk of injury of the mouth/face.

Does the development of the child affect the progress of the orthodontic therapy?

The orthodontic therapy and the development of the child are complementary to one another. Research has shown, that the orthodontist can take advantage of the growth of the jaws during this period of time in order to achieve better esthetic and functional results.  Therefore, it is critical to visit an orthodontist before the growth rate slows down.

What would happen if my child delays to start orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic therapy can start at all ages. If the child delays to start orthodontics he/she may not benefit from the growth period of his/her life and, consequently, from other therapies that may have better results. Furthermore, with time teeth may have prosthetic restorations and gum disease that may prolong the orthodontic therapy or reduce the available treatment options. Finally, by delaying the resolution of an orthodontic problem, may affect negatively the psychology of the child or the teenager.

Do braces cause pain?

Braces may cause a mild discomfort, especially during mastication and this may last for one or two days after each appointment with the orthodontist. You may also have some mild irritation at your cheeks, until you get used to the braces. Whatever the discomfort is, during the first days, the result will be rewarding. Your new smile will make you see life from a different perspective.

Will I need to do extractions?

Nowadays, the techniques that are used have reduced the number of extractions needed. However, in some cases, in order to achieve a better functional and aesthetic result tooth extractions may be necessary. In any case tooth extraction will be recommended only if it is absolutely necessary for the improvement of the result of the therapy.

What are my obligations during the therapy?

In order for you to obtain the perfect smile, the cooperation with the orthodontist is necessary during the whole time of therapy. The successful therapy is a team effort. The patient, the parents and the orthodontist all work together for the best result. The reward is the healthy and beautiful smile and the boosting of self-esteem.

In order for you to have the best possible result, your cooperation regarding the oral hygiene practice, the compliance with all the guidelines of the orthodontist and the care of your orthodontic appliances are necessary. Finally, you should be compliant with your appointments and your regular visits with your general dentist.

How often do I need to visit the orthodontist?

The orthodontist will determine the frequency of your visits. The appointments are usually set every 4 to 6 weeks. In every case you should be compliant with your appointments because otherwise the duration of the therapy will be increased.

Orthodontics for adults
For a beautiful and Healthy Smile at every age

Orthodontics does not only refer to children and adolescents. A variety of orthodontic problems can be treated easily and effectively in adults and in reality there is no age limit for undergoing orthodontic treatment. The only prerequisites are the presence of healthy teeth and healthy gums. Nowadays, more and more adults decide to undergo orthodontic treatment. It is estimated that 1 out of 3 patients is an adult. It is widely acknowledged that it is never too late for someone to improve his/her smile and feel confident about himself or herself.

At Dental Group we offer therapies especially designed for adult patients.

The new technologies, the modern techniques and the innovative materials provide bigger comfort, reduce the frequency of visits and the duration of the therapy. In addition, we have more aesthetic options that lead to excellent results.

These options consist of transparent porcelain braces in the color of the teeth, the self-ligating transparent porcelain (Damon Clear) braces and the invisible lingual (Incognito) braces, which are placed on the back surface of the teeth, and nobody but you is aware that you are wearing braces. Moreover, you can undergo orthodontic treatment without braces with the use of transparent mouth-guards (aligners) of Invisalign type. Nowadays, there is no scruple for the esthetic part of the therapy.

It is our priority to help you achieve the gorgeous smile you have always dreamt of which will help you feel comfortable and beautiful in your professional and social life.

During your first visit you will have the first acquaintance with your orthodontist. At Dental Group we pursue to create a cozy and friendly atmosphere and provide to each patient the opportunity to express freely his/her concerns regarding his/her looks and wishes for his/her smile.

During this visit, an evaluation of your oral condition will take place and you will be informed about your orthodontic problems. You will be given all the available treatment options and its duration and the estimated cost of the therapy. In parallel, the orthodontist will answer to all of your questions regarding your treatment plan. It is our goal to provide you with all the necessary information that will help you participate actively during the whole time of the therapy.

Based on these information you will decide whether you would like to proceed with the orthodontic treatment or not. If you proceed a second appointment will follow for a more detailed orthodontic examination, as described in the section “procedure”.

Through orthodontics, you can dramatically change your appearance and boost your self-esteem. A healthy and attractive smile will make you look younger. Your social and professional life will be easier and your self-respect will be reinforced.

But apart from any kind of aesthetic improvement, orthodontic treatment may ameliorate your oral health. Crooked teeth and improper occlusion make oral hygiene practice difficult and this can cause gingivitis, periodontitis, caries and even tooth loss. It is not a rare, that headaches and pain in the jaw area are caused by poor occlusion.

Orthodontic therapy will help you preserve your good oral hygiene which in turn will affect positively your general health.

The advantages from the orthodontic therapy for adults are not only of aesthetic nature but also functional as well. The main benefits are the following:

  • Improvement of facial aesthetics
  • Arrangement of the teeth in the correct position
  • Restoration of poor occlusion
  • Facilitation of the chewing process
  • Arrangement of impacted and misplaced teeth
  • Arrangement of the teeth before any prosthetic rehabilitation

Nowadays the “metal look” during orthodontic treatment is history. The adult patients can choose braces that are extremely discreet or totally invisible.

Treatment can even be performed without braces just by using transparent aligners of Invisalign type.

Therefore, the aesthetic considerations during therapy are no longer an obstacle to start orthodontic treatment.

The available options are numerous:

1. Transparent porcelain braces (ceramic). They are very discreet because of their color that matches the natural color of your teeth. Transparent porcelain braces include the type of self-negating Damon Clear braces that offer exceptional aesthetics, increased resistance and additionally, comfortable application and a smaller duration of therapy.

2.Invisible lingual braces Incognito. They are completely invisible because they are placed on the back surface of the teeth. Nobody is aware that you are following an orthodontics treatment plan

3.Transparent aligners (bite-guard) of Invisalign type. They are almost invisible. With this system you can align your teeth without the use of braces and without anybody realizing that you are under orthodontic treatment. It consists of a series of transparent mouth guards that are removed only during meals and oral hygiene practices.

Apart from the aesthetic and functional advantages provided by orthodontics, there are also benefits for your oral and general health as well.

When your teeth are crowded, it is harder for you to clean them, thus, increasing the risk for the development of periodontal (gum) disease, such as gingivitis or periodontitis. These diseases have been associated with various systemic diseases as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases etc. In addition, when oral hygiene is poor carious lesions can develop on the teeth. In more severe cases periodontal disease and/or caries may even cause tooth loss.

Furthermore, headaches that may be attributed to orthodontic problems can be reduced.

Finally, you should keep in mind that chewing is the first stage of the digestion and proper occlusion enhances the chewing function. Therefore, through the correction of occlusion, the digestive system functions better, affecting positively your general health.

Many times patients are driven to the orthodontist general or local orthodontic treatment in order to facilitate prosthetic rehabilitation (implants, crowns or partial dentures). This usually occurs when patients haven’t replaced their missing teeth for many years, and the adjacent teeth have moved towards the empty space that has been created.

The orthodontist in collaboration with the periodontist or the prosthodontist rearranges the position of the teeth in order for the restoration to be feasible.

Periodontal disease can cause tooth movement, due to the fact that part of the bone that supports the teeth is lost. Therefore, many times, after periodontal treatment the periodontist recommends an orthodontic treatment. The teeth can thus be moved to their original position. Furthermore, it is often necessary the splint these teeth in order to prevent a relapse.

A necessary prerequisite for a periodontal patient to start orthodontic treatment is the health of the gums i.e periodontal disease has been cured and oral hygiene performance should be effective. On the contrary case, under the presence of a periodontal disease the orthodontic treatment can exacerbate the symptoms of the disease and cause further destruction of the supporting tissues.

Many skeletal problems of the jaw can be addressed with orthodontics, if applied at the proper age. Hence, the orthodontist can take advantage of the development of the patient. Due to the fact that the development of the adult patients has been completed, severe skeletal abnormalities can only be solved with maxillofacial surgery. Maxillofacial surgery can modify the size, the shape and the position of the jaws, in order to achieve the best functional and aesthetic result.

In the cases where maxillofacial surgery is necessary, an initial orthodontic treatment has to go first (pre-surgical orthodontics), that lasts for 9 to 12 months, aiming at correcting the alignment of the teeth. Next, an operation is performed by the maxillofacial surgeon for the correction of skeletal abnormalities. Finally, the post-surgical orthodontic phase lasts for about 6 months, with micro-movements of the teeth to achieve the best functional and aesthetic results.

If your orthodontic problem is best treated with a combination of maxillofacial surgery and orthodontics, the orthodontist will discuss with you and with the maxillofacial surgeon every aspect of your therapy.

FaQ

Is there an age limit for adults to start an orthodontic therapy?

There is no age limit to start orthodontics. The only prerequisite is to have healthy gums and healthy teeth and follow a correct oral hygiene practice.

What are the differences of orthodontic treatment between adults and teenagers?

Orthodontic for adults is basically the same with that for teenagers with some variations. A distinctive difference is that the teeth of the adults as compared to those of the teenagers have more prosthetic restorations (crowns, bridges, implants, etc) and gum disease and this may impose some limitations. Another difference is the fact that we cannot benefit from the growth of the jaw, since this has already been completed. This is the reason why the treatment of the adults is sometimes different from those of the teenagers.

Are tooth extractions during orthodontic therapy necessary?

Nowadays, the techniques that are used have reduced the number of extractions needed. However, in some cases, in order to achieve a better functional and aesthetic result tooth extractions may be necessary. In any case tooth extraction will be recommended only if it is absolutely necessary for the improvement of the result of the therapy.

Will orthodontics change my daily routine?

Orthodontics is not going to affect your way of life. You can continue to do whatever you were doing before. The modern braces will not interfere with your social and professional life.

The majority of our patients adjust very well and fast. The techniques and materials that are used today have made Orthodontics more comfortable, faster and more efficient. Moreover, there are braces that are less obvious, even invisible like the transparent porcelain (white) ones and the lingual braces. But the treatment can occur even without braces with the system of transparent mouth-guards of Invisalign type.

Consequently, you should not be concerned about the orthodontic therapy. It will not affect your daily routine. On the contrary it will improve your quality of life because with your new smile, the social and professional interactions will be upgraded and your desire for life will be reinforced.

My teeth are crowded for many years. Is there a reason why I should decide to have an orthodontic treatment now?

When your teeth are crowded, it is very hard for you to clean them and this may result in gum disease and carries.

Are the wisdom teeth responsible for the tooth crowding?

Wisdom teeth do not necessarily cause tooth crowding. Patients that have extracted their wisdom teeth still suffer from tooth crowding, while others that have their wisdom teeth do not always have crowded teeth.

Fixed orthodontic appliances
Orthodontics with braces
The orthodontic appliances used for the correction of the orthodontic problems are categorized in fixed and removable. The fixed appliances are placed on the teeth and remain on them during the whole time of the therapy.

The fixed appliances are of many kinds, like: the traditional (conventional, metal) braces, the porcelain braces (white, ceramic) which are transparent in the color of the teeth and the lingual invisible braces (incognito), that are placed on the back surface of the teeth.

The braces are used to impose forces on the teeth in order to move them. Through the use of the braces we can achieve the right arrangement of the teeth in the jaw and/or correct the occlusion.

The metal braces are the widely known, traditional, conventional braces. They are the ones that usually come to our mind when somebody talks about orthodontic treatment.

They are placed on the teeth and remain there during the whole time of therapy. They are removed only by the orthodontist. They are the ones that are used the most. They are effective and they achieve accurate movements of the teeth.

The modern metal braces are smaller in size, have a milder effect as regards the soft tissues of the mouth, they are more comfortable than the former braces and are much more resistant and effective. They are made of high-quality stainless steel, while the last years they are constructed of titanium (titanium orthos).

The traditional braces are still popular. It is a more preferable choice when it comes to children and teenagers, who add color on their braces by choosing colorful elastic ligatures. In general, the metal braces are one of your many options, that your orthodontist will propose and discuss with you.

Benefits of the metal braces (conventional)

The metal braces offer many advantages:

  • They are effective
  • They are resistant, they don’t break and they don’t get detached regularly
  • You can add color to your braces by choosing colorful ligatures
  • They are the least costly ones
  • They come also in a golden color and they can look like a jewel
  • The titanium braces (titanium orthos) are more aesthetically pleasing, more resistant and they do not cause allergies

Benefits of titanium (titanium orthos), metal braces

The most aesthetically pleasing braces

Nowadays, braces are also made of titanium (titanium orthos). Their benefits as compared to the rest of the types of braces are the following:

  • They do not cause allergies because titanium is one of the most biocompatible materials
  • They contribute to a faster orthodontic treatment because of their accuracy of dimensions and minimization of their detachment incidents
  • They have the best aesthetic appearance because of their special covering with titanium nitride
  • They are more resistant to corrosion
  • They minimize the frequency of trauma incidents, because of their low profile
  • They cause less discomfort to the patient, because they absorb vibrations

Colorful braces

The fun side of Orthodontics

The conventional braces have the advantage that they are comfortable, configurable with elastic ligatures of various colors or by combination of colors. It is up to you what color you will choose. The color can be altered during the therapy. Some patients wear colorful ligatures when they want to celebrate their birthday or another anniversary. Others choose the colors of their favorite athletic team. The possibilities are endless.

The choice of color when wearing braces is the fun side of Orthodontics. Many children, especially teenagers, adore this option because they are provided with the opportunity to express their personality with a colorful smile.

Do not hesitate to ask from your orthodontist to add your favorite color to your braces by choosing colorful elastic ligatures.

You should remember that you can change the color of your braces at your regular visits to your orthodontist.

Self-ligating braces

Self-ligating braces without ligatures

The self-ligating braces is a new therapeutic approach in Orthodontics. Their main characteristic is that this type of braces does not require elastic ligatures and that the duration of the therapy is reduced because there are less frictions.  Additionally, oral hygiene practice is facilitated.

DamonSystem

An evolutionary approach

The DamonSystem is a totally new approach in Orthodontics. It is a system that combines braces without ligatures and wires of high technology with shape memory. They’re designed to have smooth endings, in order not to cause irritation to the soft tissues. Moreover, they apply mild forces on the teeth and on the tissues due to the minimization of frictions.

Metal Damon

The DamonSystem uses a passive slip mechanism without elastic ligatures. This allows the teeth to move more freely, faster and more comfortably, because the frictions and the resistance forces are reduced. Hence, the therapy is more comfortable and is completed in a shorter period of time.

Finally, because of their special port the change of the wire arches at every appointment is performed more easily and more quickly. Even the regularity of the visits is reduced.

The results are exceptional. The patients obtain aligned teeth and improve dramatically the aesthetics of their face, gaining the smile they have always wanted.

Moreover, because of the fact that elastic ligatures are not used, the hygiene practice is facilitated and the danger of developing caries and gum disease is the reduced.

The treatment using the Damon System braces is a very good choice, especially for patients that wish for a more comfortable and brief orthodontic treatment

Advantages of the DamonSystem

Something more than just straight teeth

The advantages of self-ligating braces of the Damon System are the following:

  • They are braces that don’t require ligatures and have a mild effect on the teeth and the tissues
  • They have wires of high technology with shape memory that move the teeth more quickly and require less configurations
  • They are a clinically approved therapeutic approach that aligns the teeth and improves the facial aesthetics
  • They contribute to a better oral hygiene practice
  • They reduce the frequency of caries and gingivitis
  • They require less and shorter in duration regular visits
  • They are a very good choice for patients who wish to complete more comfortably and sooner the orthodontic treatment

Another aesthetical option

The transparent porcelain braces (white ceramic) is another aesthetical option. They are made of high aesthetic materials. The specifications of construction are the same as in the metal braces. For this reason, they combine excellent aesthetics with excellent therapeutic results.

The transparent porcelain braces are very discreet since their color is similar to the natural color of the teeth. They are small-sized, their surface is smooth and they do not turn yellow during the period of the therapy. They “disappear” in your mouth and give you a beautiful, full of confidence smile. Apart from the porcelain braces, there are also the plastic, transparent braces which may be cheaper, but because they turn yellow over time, they are not recommended.

The porcelain braces are placed on the front surface of the teeth. Their function is the same as with all metal braces and they move the teeth equally effectively. The wire is attached to the porcelain bracket with transparent ligatures which may change color, particularly in smokers.

However, there are, also, the transparent self-ligating porcelain braces that don’t require ligatures, and thus the problem with their color will not be an issue.

The therapy using porcelain braces, is useful for patients who are skeptical about using the traditional metal braces and don’t want to look like they are under orthodontic treatment. The porcelain transparent braces are the most popular among adults and also teenagers, who do not wish for a metal look of their mouth.

Benefits of porcelain (ceramic) braces

The transparent porcelain braces have many advantages such as:

  • They are almost invisible since they have the color of the teeth and hence are very discreet
  • They have a very good aesthetic appearance
  • They “disappear” in your mouth and give you confidence
  • They are comfortable, thin, with smooth and soft surfaces and rounded edges
  • They are effective during the therapy and are trusted by the orthodontists around the world
  • They do not change color, they do not turn yellow and are resistant to staining
  • It is a very good choice for adults and teenagers that desire an attractive smile during treatment

A very good choice for adults and teenagers

 

Self ligating porcelain (DamonClear) braces

A revolutionary approach

The self-ligating porcelain (DamonClearSystem) braces are just like the metal self-ligating DamonSystem braces i.e they combine braces without ligatures and work with wires of high technology with shape memory. They are designed with very smooth endings so they do not cause irritation to the soft tissues. Moreover, they impose mild forces on the teeth and the tissues, due to the minimization of the frictions.

Their color is similar to that of the teeth, and this is the reason why they are hard to see and thus assure an excellent aesthetic result. They do not turn yellow during the therapy because they do not have ligatures and they are resistant to staining and discoloring. They “disappear” in the mouth and provide you a beautiful and full of confidence smile.

The DamonClearSystem implements a passive slip mechanism to constrain the wire arches to the brackets. This allows the teeth to move more freely, faster and more comfortably because the frictions and the resistance forces are minimized. Consequently, the therapy is more comfortable and is completed in a shorter period of time.

Finally, due to the special port they are equipped with, the changes of the wire arches during the regular visits occur more easily and quickly. Even the frequency of the regular visits is reduced.

Additionally, because the DamonSystem does not use elastic ligatures, oral hygiene practices are facilitated and the risk of developing carries and gum disease is reduced.

The therapy using the DamonClear is a very good choice, particularly for busy patients, who wish for a more comfortable and shorter orthodontic therapy, with a very aesthetic appearance.

Advantages of the DamonClearSystem

The benefits of the Damon Clear System are the following:

  • They are very discreet, almost invisible with excellent aesthetics.
  • They do not require ligatures and are milder to the teeth and the tissues.
  • They have excellent aesthetics, because they do not have elastic ligatures
  • They have wires of high-technology with shape memory that move the teeth faster and require fewer configurations
  • It is a clinically approved therapeutic approach that aligns the teeth and improves facial aesthetics
  • They facilitate a better oral hygiene
  • They reduce the risk for carries and gingivitis
  • Less in number and shorter in time, regular visits during the therapy period are needed
  • It is a very good option for busy patients who wish for a shorter orthodontic therapy

 

Almost invisible with excellent aesthetics

An invisible alternative option to the traditional braces

The lingual braces are braces of high-technology suitable for almost all orthodontic problems. They are completely invisible as they are placed on the back (lingual) surface of the teeth (the surface towards the tongue). They remain in place until the end of the therapy. The only one who is aware that you are wearing braces is you.

Completely invisible

The lingual braces provide the ability to the orthodontist to achieve the intended goals with the same effectiveness just like the conventional braces. There is a very mild discomfort in the beginning. The majority of the patients get used to them in a very short period of time

Only you are aware that you are wearing braces

The only disadvantage of the lingual braces is their high cost. There is the possibility of using two kinds of braces, something that is adopted by a majority of patients, in order for them to reduce the cost of the therapy. For instance, you can use lingual braces at the upper jaw and white porcelain braces at the lower jaw.

a) Lingual braces incognito

The secret behind a beautiful smile

The lingual braces, as a technique, have been used for many years. The revolution in the use of lingual braces has been brought by the Incognito system.

The lingual braces Incognito are designed and constructed exclusively for your teeth after the impression of your teeth is taken. It is the most individualized invisible technique with an excellent control of movement during the therapy.

Their construction takes place at a special state-of-the-art laboratory using a 3D technology. This allows for a perfect fit and a perfect result. The wires used are high-tech and totally individualized. They are constructed by robots achieving absolute accuracy.

The lingual braces Incognito are constructed for every tooth separately and are also made of gold alloy. They are placed on the back (lingual) surface of the teeth. They do not distort the shape of the lips and are totally invisible. The orthodontist, who will place the lingual braces Incognito, has to be qualified with special education certification.

Advanced aesthetic orthodontic technique

 

Their low profile provides the patient with great comfort and quick adjustment of speach. Additionally, because they are made of gold alloy, they are completely anti-allergic.

The Incognito braces is the perfect option for adults, who wish to obtain a beautiful smile without anybody knowing that they are under orthodontic treatment. Even though the lingual braces are completely invisible, the new and beautiful smile is almost immediately visible. www.incognito.net

Designing your new smile

 

b) Lingual braces Incognito for teenagers

Invisible and effective

The lingual braces Incognito is an excellent option for teenagers, as well as for adults. They allow patients to laugh and express themselves with ease and confidence during the therapy achieving in parallel excellent orthodontic results.

They are placed on the back surface of the teeth and hence they are totally invisible. Nobody can tell that you are wearing braces unless you say you do. What other people observe is your new smile and not the braces.

Furthermore, because they are designed and constructed exclusively for your needs, they are exceptionally comfortable and effective. It is the perfect option for teenagers that want to smile with confidence but also don’t want it to be obvious that they are under orthodontic therapy.

The perfect choice for the perfect smile

 

c) Advantages of the Incognito system

Excellent technique, individualized goals

The advantages of the Incognito lingual system are the following:

  • They are completely invisible because they are placed on the back surface of the teeth
  • They have excellent aesthetics
  • They are completely individualized for every patient
  • They are designed and constructed in state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with the most Hi-Tech cad/cam softwares
  • They are very comfortable due to their low profile
  • They provide the patient with great comfort and faster adjustment to speech
  • They are anti-allergic because they are made of gold alloy
  • They don’t get detached often because they are exclusively and completely individualized and low profiled
  • They have wires of absolute accuracy constructed by robots
  • They are suitable for the treating of all of the orthodontic problems
  • They are safer for the teeth because they are placed on the inner surface of the mouth which is more resistant to corrosion
  • It is a system designed to service individualized goals of therapy
  • It is a very good choice for teenagers of late adolescence, who do not want to look like they are under orthodontic therapy
  • It is a perfect option for adults, because they are invisible and their social and professional lives are not affected
  • While the braces are invisible, the new, beautiful smile is immediately visible

Removable orthodontic appliances
Orthodontics without braces
Orthodontic appliances used for treating orthodontic problems are categorized in fixed and removable. The fixed devices are placed permanently on the teeth during the treatment, and can’t be removed from the patient. The removable mechanisms consist of transparent mobile mouth guards like the ones used  by Invisalign, Orthocaps, ClearAlligner.

The removable transparent splints system is an almost transparent system for someone to align the teeth without braces. It is an alternative aesthetic option for those who don’t want to have braces in their mouth.

Orthodontics without braces

It is a completely invisible system for someone to align his or her teeth without braces by using mobile transparent splints. The transparent splints are particularly popular worldwide as an aesthetic, but also effective option of orthodontics.

It is the state-of-the-art option of orthodontics. They have brought a revolution to the field of Orthodontics and changed what we know about classic Orthodontics.

They aesthetic orthodontics applies particularly to adult patients and patients of late adolescence, who do not want to look like they are under Orthodontic treatment. The transparent splints are a perfect solution for busy individuals who socialize daily, who have an intense social life, but also for every individual who wishes to obtain a healthy and bright smile. It is the ideal solution for everybody who wishes to improve the aesthetics of his/her face but don’t want their braces to be obvious.

The Invisalign system is a new aesthetic approach of orthodontics. It consists of a series of successive removable transparent mouthguards that are exclusively designed for your teeth. These splints (mouthguards) cover only the teeth and not the gums. They are easy to wear and designed for the treatment of the most common orthodontic problems. They function similarly to the conventional braces but without wires and brackets. The Invisalign system has been tested internationally in more than three million patients and has proved to be effective during clinical research.

The Invisalign mouthguards are almost invisible which means that nobody knows that you are under orthodontic treatment. You can socialize and smile without any hesitation. Additionally, you can eat freely and follow the oral hygiene program without any problem, since you can remove the mouth-guards during lunch time or when you brush your teeth. Furthermore, they do not contain metal elements. They are comfortable and do not cause allergies.

Finally, the Invisalign system provides the patient with the opportunity to see on the computer (clincheck), before the treatment starts, his/her personal treatment plan, how the teeth will be moved and how the final result will look like.

Theoretically, all patients can use the Invisalign technique. However, your orthodontist will inform you if you are a candidate for the Invisalign system because the therapy with transparent braces is not recommended for all kind of orthodontic problems.

For more information www.invisalign.gr and invisalign.com

Then Invisalign mouth-guards are constructed with 3D printers (AlignTechnologies). The orthodontist who provides a treatment plan with the use of Invisalign system, has to be qualified with special education certifications.

The therapy using the Invisalign system starts by taking impressions of the teeth. The impressions along with the photographs, the x-rays and the treatment plan, are sent to the special laboratory of Invisalign system in the United States, where a digital model of your mouth is constructed. On this model the movements of the teeth are determined by your orthodontist.

The most important characteristic of this system is that the patient can see on the computer a 3D image of his/her teeth before the initiation of the therapy and also the final result and discuss with the orthodontist for possible modifications. This procedure is called clincheck. Later on a series of successive splints, exclusively designed for a particular patient is created in the special laboratory. The number of splits differs from patient to patient, and depends on the severity of each case.

These mouth-guards are replaced every two weeks. When you place them in your mouth, a small movement of your teeth takes place. This movement continues until the teeth have moved to the desired position with the last pair of splints. These splints you wear all the time (22 hours a day). You can remove them only during meals and oral hygiene practices and also for cleaning them.

On the regular visits the progress of the therapy is evaluated and the next pair of mouth-guards is provided. The total duration of the therapy as well as the number of mouth-guards varies from patient to patient and depends on the treatment plan.

Then InvisalignTeen for teenagers is an excellent system that has been developed especially for teenagers of late adolescence. It is based on the initial Invisalign system. It uses a series of successive transparent pairs of splints, that aim at moving and aligning the teeth. Some modifications though on the initial Invisalign system have been made for the treatment to become more suitable and more efficient for the needs of younger patients.

The Invisalign system for teenagers includes an extra pair of splints in case of losing a splint. Every splint is marked with a color index that changes its color to remind the patient that its time to replace the existing pair of splints with the next ones.

Through the Invisalign system you can correct many orthodontic problems. The therapy is almost invisible. You can smile with comfort, enjoy your favorite foods and enjoy the company with friends without feeling bad, because you are under orthodontic treatment. The Invisalign system does not contain metal elements. It is comfortable and does not cause any allergies. It is an excellent choice for teenagers of late adolescence that are interested in an aesthetic result, but also don’t want to reveal that they are under orthodontic treatment.

 

The benefits of the Invisalign transparent splints system and the InvisalignTeen system for teenagers are the following:

  • They offer excellent aesthetics because the mouth-guards are transparent
  • It is an excellent choice for adults and teenagers of late adolescence, who are interested in an aesthetic result, but don’t want to reveal that they are under orthodontic therapy.
  • They provide the opportunity to the patient to see from the beginning of the therapy the final result in three dimensions
  • They have a great fit in the mouth
  • They facilitate the oral hygiene practices because the mouth-guards are easily removed and cleaned
  • They facilitate the process of chewing because they are removed by the patient during meals
  • They are made of anti-allergic materials
  • They can be used by patients with treated periodontitis because they allow the better oral hygiene practice
  • They do not get in the way of the social and professional life of the patient
  • They can be removed by the patient himself or herself in exceptional social circumstances
  • An additional pair of splints is provided in case of an accidental loss of the splints
  • A color index reminds the patient that the mouth guards should be replaced with the next ones

The Invisalign transparent bite-guard system is useful mostly to adult patients and to teenagers of late adolescence. It cannot be applied to children who still have some of their deciduous teeth. It is preferable for children and teenagers of younger ages to choose other systems. Since the mouth guards are removable the Invisalign system is not suitable for all kind of therapies.

Moreover, the patient needs to be disciplined and determined that he/she will wear them all the time because otherwise the therapy will not be effective and will last longer. Finally, another disadvantage of the Invisalign system is its high cost.

Orthodontic micro-implants
Orthodontal treatment with the use of micro-implants
The micro-implants (miniscrew implants or Temporary Anchorage Device) are frequently used in modern orthodontics as temporary supportive elements for the movement of a specific tooth, in cases when we want to avoid an undesirable movement of the other teeth. They are also used for the correction of severe occlusion problems and facilitate the achieving of a very pleasing orthodontal result. The last years recently they are also used for treating specific skeletal problems.

The micro-implants were discovered in the 21st century, based on previous experience from General Dentistry & Maxillofacial Surgery. They consist of a very small screw made of titanium alloy, which is biocompatible with the body and functions as a support element. The micro-implants are usually placed between the roots of the teeth or the palate. They are connected with the braces to facilitate the movement of the teeth.

They are placed in the jaw under local anesthesia. At the beginning there is a mild discomfort that quickly goes away. The micro-implants are easily removed without anesthesia when they are not needed anymore.

The duration of the presence of the micro-implants in the jaw, depends on the treatment. It varies from patient to patient. They usually remain in the mouth for several months. They do not cause any problems or any damage to the teeth or the tissues of the mouth.

Additionally, they do not need special care. A good cleaning of the micro-implants with the toothbrush is recommended.

  • Creation of an anchor spot to support for the movement of the teeth
  • Reduction of the duration of therapy
  • More treatment options
  • Treating of cases that without the use of micro-implants the maxillofacial intervention would be required

Orthodontic appliances
In orthodontic therapy not only the conventional braces or the transparent mouth guards are used. There are many other orthodontic appliances that are used, mostly, in the early phase of orthodontic therapy and also during the second phase, the reconstructive one. Their aim is mostly the correction of simple dental-related problems or skeletal abnormalities. They are categorized in removable, fixed and extra-oral.

Appliances

A) Removable appliances
The removable appliances are often used for the treatment of simple dental-related problems or other skeletal abnormalities. They can be removed by the patient for a better oral hygiene practice and a more comfortable chewing process.

The therapy with removable devices can start before the eruption of all permanent teeth. The best results are achieved at the stage of mixed dentition. The duration of the therapy varies. It usually lasts for several months.

The removable appliances are plastic mouth-guards easily adjusted to one’s mouth and either they move the teeth with thin springs and wires, or they are used to treat skeletal problems.

The orthodontist will take impressions of the teeth. Based on these impressions the dental technician will construct the appliance. The design and color of the device can be determined by the patient.

For successful results the patient is necessary to wear the appliance all the time.

Advantages of removable appliances:

  • They facilitate oral hygiene practice
  • They facilitate the chewing process

Disadvantages of removable appliances:

  • The cooperation and the consistency of the child to the therapy is totally necessary
  • They affect slightly the speech

The functional appliances are used for the correction of, mainly, skeletal problems. There are many kinds of such appliances: The Activator, the Twin Block and the Bionator. All have similar functions. The functional Twin Block appliance is the most frequently used.

Twin Block

 

The removable functional appliances guide the lower jaw to a more frontal position by stimulating the increase of its volume so that both jaws develop harmonically.

They usually remain in the mouth all day. The patient can remove them during meals or oral hygiene practices.

The duration of this part of the therapy varies depending on the severity of the problem. The therapy usually lasts for 9 -12 months.

The therapy is most successful when implemented right before or during adolescence, because at that period we can take advantage of the fast pace of development of the patient. Additionally, an important role in the success of the therapy plays the consistency and the cooperation of the patient.

The advantage of removable functional appliances as compared to the fixed ones, is the fact that they are easily removed when brushing or eating and thus make the treatment more comfortable. The fact that they are removed at will, is a disadvantage to non-cooperative children, because they do not wear them all the necessary hours. Another disadvantage is that some difficulties may appear during speech.

Twin Block

The Twin Block appliance, consists of two plastic mouth-guards, which are placed on the jaw. They guide the lower jaw to a more frontal position by stimulating the increase of its volume so that both jaws develop harmonically. The therapy is most successful when implemented just before or during adolescence because at that age we can take advantage of the increased pace of development.

It is a particularly popular appliance because it combines effectiveness with ease of use. It is designed for the patient to wear 24 hours a day. He/she should remove it only during meals and oral hygiene practices. Its very good aesthetics and its small volume, as compared to similar devices used in the past, facilitates the cooperation of the patient, which is absolutely necessary for the success of the therapy.

They are appliances that are used for the expansion of the upper jaw, in cases when we have a narrow upper jaw or posterior cross-bite. They are plastic mouth-guards that include an integrated screw, which the patient turns regularly, in order for the expansion to occur. Since they are removable they facilitate oral hygiene practice and eating, which is the main advantage as compared to similar fixed appliances. However, being removable may be a disadvantage to non-cooperative children because they do not wear them all the necessary hours. Another disadvantage is the difficulty that may appear during speech.

The removable appliances that are intended for the facilitation of quitting bad habits, are plastic mouth-guards that are placed in the upper jaw. They have a wire railing which interferes with the entrance of the thumb, or another finger in the mouth. They are used to stop the bad habit of finger sucking. Because they can be easily removed by the child, a substantial cooperation is required. This is why most of the times fixed appliances are most preferable in these cases.
The removable appliances of Hawley type, are plastic mouth-guards easily adjusted to the upper or lower jaw, which move the teeth with thin springs and wires in cases we need minor dental movements.

The duration of therapy is determined by the orthodontist and depends on the case.

A disadvantage of these appliances is the difficulty that may appear during speech.

B) Fixed appliances
The fixed appliances can be used either for the expansion of the upper jaw, when it’s narrow, or for the guidance of the lower jaw to a more frontal position by stimulating the development of the jaw with functional appliances of Herbst type. Furthermore, they are used for the preservation of space, in case of an early tooth loss, as well as for quitting bad habits, such as the sucking of the fingers, the use of a pacifier or the projection of the tongue. Finally, particular fixed appliances are used in parallel with the use of braces for the facilitation of the orthodontic therapy.

Fixed appliances usually consist of rings that are connected with each other with a wire. The orthodontist, depending on the treatment plan, will take impressions of the upper and lower jaw with the rings on the teeth. Based on these impressions the dental technician will construct the appliance.

This appliance is attached on the teeth and remains in the mouth as long as is necessary according to the treatment plan.

Since the fixed appliances cannot be removed by the patient, they make the chewing process, as well as oral hygiene more difficult than normal. Therefore, oral hygiene practice has to be very thorough.

Expansion device of the palate

Some children’s upper jaw is very narrow, in correlation to the lower jaw, and the upper teeth do not occlude normally with the lower teeth, creating the so-called posterior cross-bite. To treat this problem an expansion device of the palate (upper jaw) is used, which expands the width of the upper jaw and hence restores the proper occlusion and the correct dimensions in width of the jaw. Additionally, it creates more space for the eruption of the permanent teeth. It is advisable that these devices are placed in the mouth as soon as possible, and right after the eruption of the first upper permanent molar teeth, approximately after the age of 6.

Such devices are the: Hyrax, Haas, Quadhelix, Bonded RPE.

In its most regular form, the appliance of the upper jaw expansion consists of two rings that are connected to each other with a screw. The patient turns the screw according to the orthodontist’s guidelines in order for expansion to occur. The results from the use of these devices are very pleasing, since the aesthetic and functional restoration of the mouth is achieved.

The device remains in the mouth during the whole duration of the therapy and cannot be removed by the patient. Therefore, chewing and brushing may become a little more difficult. This is why oral hygiene practice has to be more thorough.
The patient’s cooperation is necessary but to a smaller extent since the is not removable.

The fixed functional appliances are used as the removable ones, for the restoration of mainly skeletal problems, by guiding the jaws to the correct positions. These appliances guide the lower jaw to a more frontal position by stimulating its development so the two jaws will develop harmonically. They remain attached on the teeth and cannot be removed by the patient.

The fixed functional appliance of Herbst type consists of two pistons, that are attached on crowns that are placed on the upper first molar teeth and guide the jaw to a more frontal position.

The duration of the therapy varies, depending on the severity of the problem. It usually lasts for 9 to 12 months.

The therapy is more successful when it is implemented right before or during adolescence because at that period we can take advantage all the fast pace of development.

The advantage of such a functional appliance, is the fact that it remains attached on the teeth and is not removed during the therapy. Therefore, the patient’s cooperation is necessary but to a smaller degree.

Since these appliances cannot be removed by the patient, chewing and brushing of the teeth may be more difficult than usual. This is why the oral hygiene practice has to be more thorough.

Another disadvantage is that in parallel to the development of the lower jaw an undesirable movement of the lower front teeth may take place.

When a deciduous tooth is lost early, in order for this empty space to be preserved, small-sized appliances are placed on the teeth, called space preservation appliances.

They usually consist of one ring with a small wire that does not allow the adjacent teeth to move and take over the space.

The appliances that help quit bad habits are the following:

  • Sucking of the fingers inhibition appliance

It is a fixed appliance, that consists of two rings and a metal wire that inhibits the entrance of the thumb or another finger in the mouth. It is placed on the upper jaw and is not removed until the end of the therapy. It remains in the mouth until the habit is completely stopped.

It is recommended to be placed in the mouth as early as possible in order to avoid the development of larger problems of the teeth and of the jaws.

  • Appliance for tongue thrust treatment

It is a fixed appliance of different shapes, that facilitates the training of the tongue so it doesn’t project to the front during swallowing.

It is placed on the molar teeth of the upper jaw and is not removed during the therapy. It remains in the mouth until the habit is completely stopped.

This appliance is recommended to be placed in the mouth as early as possible in order to avoid the development of larger problems of the teeth and of the jaws.

The advantage of these appliances is that they remain adjusted on the teeth and therefore the cooperation of the patient is necessary by to a smaller degree.

Since these appliances cannot be removed by the patient, chewing and brushing of the teeth may be more difficult than usual. This is why oral hygiene practice has to be more thorough.

The lower lip bumper consists of two rings and a vestibular wire arch covered in plastic, which is placed on the lower jaw and does not allow the lower lip to interfere between the upper and lower front teeth.

The lip bumper cannot be removed by the patient. It remains in the mouth until the problem disappears.

This device is recommended to be placed in the mouth as early as possible, in order to avoid the development of larger problems of the teeth and of the jaws.

The advantage of such a device is that it remains on the teeth and is not removed during the therapy. Hence, the cooperation of the patient is necessary but to a smaller degree.

These devices, because they cannot be removed by the patient, make the chewing process and the brushing of the teeth more difficult than usual. This is why oral hygiene practice has to be more thorough.

The Lingual arch consists of two rings that are connected with a lingual wire arch. This device is easily adjusted on the lower jaw and is used usually for the preservation of the space, in the case of an early loss of deciduous teeth or to upright the back teeth. It is not removed from the mouth during the therapy and remains there until the permanent teeth are fully emerged or the back teeth uprighted.

The upper jaw binder (TPA) is a fixed appliance that consists of two rings that are connected through a wire binder. This device is placed on the upper jaw and is used mostly for the preservation of space in case of an early loss of the deciduous teeth of both sides.

It is not removed from the mouth during the therapy and remains there until its completion.

C) Extra-oral Headgear appliances
The headgear appliances are extra-oral orthodontic mechanisms that are placed and removed by the patient himself. They are used either to treat skeletal problems, by affecting the development of the upper and lower jaw, or to move teeth to more ideal position in the dental arch.

Extra-oral appliances

The High Pull Headgear device is a removable appliance that consists of a metal arch which is applied on the bottom of the upper jaw, and is placed on the back teeth of the upper jaw, and of straps equipped with an elastic mechanism that adjust on the head.

This device applies big forces on the upper jaw to measure its development in order to have a more harmonic relation between the upper and the lower jaw.

The headgear is placed and removed by the patient himself/herself. It remains in the mouth usually during night-time or for more hours depending on the orthodontist’s guidelines.

The duration of the therapy varies and depends upon  the severity of the problem. It usually lasts for 9 to 12 months.

The therapy is more successful when it starts right before or during adolescence, because we can more easily take advantage of the increased pace of development of the jaws.

In order for the treatment with this appliance to be successful, the cooperation of the child is necessary.

The cervical pull headgear is a removable appliance which consists of a metal arch that is applied on the back teeth of the upper jaw, and of straps equipped with an elastic mechanism that is applied on the neck.

It is used either to treat skeletal problems, by affecting the development of the jaws, or to move teeth to a more ideal position in the dental arch.

The headgear is placed and removed by the patient himself/herself. It remains in the mouth usually during sleep or for more hours, depending on the orthodontist’s guidelines. The duration of the therapy varies depending on the severity of the problem. It usually lasts for 9 to 12 months.
The therapy is more successful when it starts right before or during adolescence, because we can more easily take advantage of the increased pace of development of the jaws.

For the headgears to be effective, the cooperation of the child is necessary.

The face mask is a headgear device, which consists of two coverings, one of the forehead and one of the jaw, which are connected with each other with one or two wires. Elastic forces are applied in order for the upper jaw to be moved towards the front and have a more harmonic relation between the upper and the lower jaw.

The face mask is placed and removed by the patient himself. It remains in the mouth usually during bed-time or for more hours depending on the orthodontist’s guidelines.

The duration of the therapy varies based on the severity of the problem. It usually lasts for 9 to 12 month.

The therapy is more successful when it starts right before or during adolescence, because we can more easily take advantage of the increased pace of development of the jaws.

For the headgears to be effective, the cooperation of the child is necessary.

RPHG (Reverse Pull Headgear)

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