(III) Alignment — No. 09
Orthodontics
The architecture of a smile comes first.
Gently correcting the alignment of the teeth and the bite of the jaws over time, with braces or clear aligners.
At a glance
- Duration
- Usually 6–24 months
- Check-ups
- Every 4–8 weeks
- Anaesthesia
- Not needed
- Age
- Possible at any age
Durations and visit counts are typical values; they vary from person to person and become clear after an examination.
Orthodontics corrects the position of the teeth and jaws in relation to one another. The result is more than a straighter line: a more balanced bite, teeth that are easier to clean and a more comfortable jaw joint.
Crowding, gaps, deep, open or crossbites do not correct themselves; over time they can lead to tooth wear, gum problems and jaw joint discomfort.
Orthodontics does not belong to childhood alone. With clear aligners and aesthetic braces, adults can be treated with little effect on daily life. Orthodontics before aesthetic treatment often gives a better result with less intervention.
Who it is for
- Crowded or gapped teeth
- A deep, open or crossbite
- Anyone who wants the teeth in the right place before aesthetic treatment
- Families who want to guide a child's jaw growth early
Options
- 01
Clear aligners
Nearly invisible, removable aligners that move the teeth step by step.
- 02
Metal braces
Reliable and effective where larger movements are needed.
- 03
Aesthetic braces
Tooth-coloured brackets for a fixed treatment that draws less attention.
- 04
Retention
A fixed wire or a night-time retainer to keep the result.
The process
Records
An examination, X-rays, photographs and scans document where things stand.
Plan
Tooth movements and treatment time are planned; the options are weighed together.
Active treatment
Braces are fitted or the series of aligners begins; check-ups follow at regular intervals.
Completion
When the teeth reach their planned position, active treatment ends.
Retention
Retainers keep the result in place.
—The Dent BB approach
We see orthodontics as the foundation of an aesthetic result. Moving a tooth to the right place is always less invasive than covering it.
Honest expectations
- Duration depends on the complexity of the case and how closely the plan is followed.
- Clear aligners only work when worn as prescribed — usually 20–22 hours a day.
- If retention is neglected, teeth tend to drift back.
- Oral hygiene needs extra care during treatment.
Aftercare
- Brush after every meal; use interdental brushes around brackets
- Drink nothing but water with aligners in
- With braces, avoid hard and sticky food
- Keep every check-up
Frequently asked
Is there an age limit for orthodontics?
No. As long as the gums and bone are healthy, adults can be treated too.
Are clear aligners suitable for everyone?
For many cases, yes; for some complex movements braces can be more predictable. The decision follows an examination.
Does it hurt?
A feeling of pressure for a few days after a new wire or aligner is common; it is usually brief.
Will my teeth move back afterwards?
Worn as advised, retainers keep the result.
This page is for information. A diagnosis and a treatment plan require an examination.