Kids
The first visit to the orthodontist is recommended at the age of 7-8 years, because at this age problems related to the jaws and/or dentition can already be diagnosed, since usually some permanent teeth have already emerged.
Early diagnosis does not necessarily mean that treatment will begin immediately, but it is very important, because with proper planning it can facilitate the treatment of an orthodontic problem. Especially when the problem is located in the jaws, it can be treated most effectively during and before the child's skeletal development is complete.
In any case, the orthodontist is able to identify the problem that exists and direct you accordingly, in terms of timely and correct intervention, in order to prevent or treat incipient orthodontic problems.
Orthodontic intervention in young children is targeted for the specific problem that will be diagnosed, in order to have the shortest possible duration and discomfort for the young patient. In practice, this means that the following are used orthodontic mechanisms (mobile or fixed) that do not necessarily include all teeth or both jaws, because we focus on the problem that concerns us directly.
Indicatively, if you notice crooked teeth, large gaps between teeth, "chipped" teeth, baby teeth that have been lost early, permanent teeth that are slow to appear in the mouth, asymmetry when closing the mouth, then your child needs to see an orthodontist. See the most typical ones early signs of orthodontic problems.
Since all children should visit the dentist or paediatric dentist for preventive reasons as soon as the first baby teeth emerge, you should also consult your colleagues who may be the first to detect an orthodontic problem.
Teens
The majority of orthodontic patients belong to this age group. Either they are children who have started a first phase of treatment at a younger age and are continuing to optimize the result, or children who are now starting their orthodontic treatment.
Orthodontic problems, not only dental but also most skeletal problems, can be successfully treated using the modern and sophisticated tools offered by the science of orthodontics.
In general, orthodontic appliances include the fixed classic metal braces (metal brackets), the fixed transparent braces (ceramic brackets) and the mobile transparent tooth moving splints (Invisalign, Spark, clear aligners etc).
In addition, special mechanisms or accessories may be needed for some time in order to achieve the required orthodontic result, such as for example the transmandibular elastic forces or common "rubber bands" placed by the patient, following instructions.
Orthodontics "enters" the lives of adolescents when their schedule starts to become more demanding and is accompanied by their internal and external changes and concerns. At our practice, we invest substantially in creating a climate of trust, support and collaboration with the adolescent orthodontic patient so that their orthodontic "journey" is a fundamentally enjoyable experience culminating in the reward of a beautiful smile.
Adults
Orthodontics is absolutely "suitable for adults" of all decades.
Apart from the obvious improvement of the smile and the enhancement of self-confidence, orthodontic treatment in adults offers better oral hygiene and improvement or avoidance of periodontal or dental problems (gingivitis, traumatic occlusion, caries, tooth wear/abrasion).
Also, in cases where a prosthetic work is needed (bridge, implant), orthodontics can adjust the teeth in such a way that the dentist can carry out the prosthetic restoration more easily and correctly. In some cases, problems with missing teeth can even be solved solely by orthodontic movement of the adjacent teeth, if this is indicated.
The orthodontist will study your case and in close cooperation with your general dentist or speciality dentists (periodontist, endodontist, prosthodontist) will draw up a realistic and individualized treatment plan for orthodontic treatment.
Unlike developing children and adolescents, in adults craniofacial development is complete, so treatment goals and treatment solutions are tailored to the capabilities of the oral and maxillofacial system at that age. In cases with severe skeletal problems, e.g. mandibular prematurity, the combination of orthodontics and maxillofacial surgery may be the appropriate therapeutic approach.
Modern orthodontics offers options with minimally visible or "invisible" mechanisms, thus overcoming or minimizing the aesthetic problem that usually concerns adult patients. Fixed transparent braces or removable transparent tooth moving splints (Invisalign, Spark, clear aligners etc) are some of the treatment options.
In addition, special devices or accessories may be needed for some time in order to achieve the required orthodontic result, such as fixed orthodontic mini-implants (TADs), which enhance the support of the orthodontic forces.
The social and professional obligations of adults often cause hesitation in the decision to start orthodontic treatment. However, when they consider the benefits and the positive change in their health and psychology, adults are the most committed and consistent patients and the joy they express at the end of orthodontic treatment is extraordinary. At our practice, we strive to support and facilitate them as much as we can during treatment, and we enjoy the joy of the final result with them.
