Orthodontics

Orthodontics

Orthodontics is the specialty that diagnoses and corrects irregularities in tooth alignment and jaw relationships. The primary goals are to achieve ideal tooth positioning, balanced jaw function, and an esthetic smile. At Yaprak Dent we create personalized treatment plans for children, teens, and adults, offering solutions from traditional braces to advanced clear aligner systems.

Causes of Orthodontic Problems

• Genetic factors such as inherited jaw structure or tooth size
• Early or delayed loss of primary teeth
• Habits like thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or nail biting
• Mouth breathing, enlarged tonsils, or adenoids
• Trauma and jaw fractures
• Systemic diseases or hormonal imbalances

These factors can cause crowding, spacing, impacted teeth, jaw discrepancies, deep or open bites, crossbites, and other malocclusion types.

Orthodontic Treatment Options

Metal Braces

Classic metal braces remain the most common technique. They are durable, effective, and popular among children and teens. Modern brackets are smaller and more comfortable, with colorful elastics for personalization.

Esthetic (Ceramic or Sapphire) Braces

Tooth-colored ceramic or sapphire brackets are ideal for adults concerned about appearance. Their translucent look makes treatment less noticeable.

Lingual Orthodontics

Brackets and wires are attached to the inner surfaces of teeth, keeping treatment virtually invisible—an excellent option for patients with high esthetic demands. Lingual appliances are custom-designed based on precise impressions.

Clear Aligner Therapy

Systems like Invisalign use a series of digitally planned clear trays. Each aligner moves teeth gradually and can be removed for eating and brushing, simplifying hygiene. They are effective for mild to moderate malocclusions.

Accelerated and Supportive Techniques

Palatal expanders, orthopedic face masks, temporary anchorage devices (TADs), and laser-assisted procedures can enhance treatment efficiency. Skeletal corrections are especially important during growth for issues such as maxillary constriction or mandibular retrusion.

Treatment Workflow

1. Comprehensive records: Clinical exam, panoramic and cephalometric radiographs, intraoral and extraoral photos, and digital scans are collected.
2. Treatment planning: A customized plan is created, appliances are selected, and the expected timeline is discussed with the patient.
3. Appliance placement: Brackets, wires, or aligners are placed. Tooth extractions or interdental stripping may be performed when necessary.
4. Adjustments and reviews: Wires are activated or aligners changed every 4–6 weeks, and elastics or auxiliaries are revised.
5. Retention phase: After active treatment, retainers maintain tooth positions. Adhering to retention protocols is crucial for long-term stability.

Benefits of Orthodontics

• Functional improvement: Harmonizes jaw relationships, optimizing chewing and speech.
• Esthetic enhancement: Straight teeth elevate smile appearance and confidence.
• Oral health: Well-aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing caries and gum disease risks.
• TMJ protection: Proper occlusion helps prevent temporomandibular joint issues.
• Prosthetic planning: Aligns teeth ideally before implants or restorative work.

Treatment Duration and Timing

Orthodontic treatment typically lasts 6–24 months, depending on case complexity. Some mild aligner treatments finish within 4–6 months. The ideal time for an initial orthodontic evaluation is around age seven, during mixed dentition, to monitor jaw and tooth development. Adults can undergo orthodontic treatment as long as periodontal health is maintained.

Tips During Treatment

• Patients with braces should avoid hard or sticky foods and limit sugary snacks.
• Maintain meticulous hygiene with brushing, flossing, interdental, and orthodontic brushes.
• Clear aligner patients must wear trays 20–22 hours daily and keep them away from hot beverages.
• Attend scheduled appointments and contact the clinic promptly for emergencies like loose brackets or poking wires.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do braces hurt?
Mild pressure or soreness is common for the first few days. Discomfort subsides quickly and can be managed with over-the-counter analgesics.

Are clear aligners suitable for everyone?
They work well for mild to moderate cases. Complex malocclusions may require braces—your orthodontist will advise you.

Can I play sports with braces?
Yes. For contact sports, wear a mouthguard to protect brackets and soft tissues.

How long should retainers be worn?
Typically full-time or nightly during the first year. Your orthodontist will customize retention instructions.

Do braces damage teeth?
No, provided excellent oral hygiene is maintained. Poor hygiene can lead to demineralization or decay around brackets.

Orthodontics at Yaprak Dent

Our orthodontists utilize digital planning, 3D scanning, and photographic analysis to develop individualized treatment plans. Self-ligating brackets reduce friction for smoother, faster tooth movement. In clear aligner therapy we work with leading systems like Invisalign and fabricate customized aligners when required. Patients receive detailed guidance on diet, hygiene, and appliance care throughout treatment.

Consultation and Appointments

If you experience crowding, bite discrepancies, or esthetic concerns, schedule an appointment with Yaprak Dent Orthodontics. During the initial visit we gather digital records and present treatment duration and cost options transparently. Complete our online form or call our hotline to arrange a same-day consultation and take the first step toward a healthy, esthetic smile.