Orthodontics

In Kırşehir, Ayaz Dent Dental Clinic provides personalized orthodontic treatment plans—including braces, clear aligners, and removable appliances—for patients with crooked teeth, malocclusions, and misaligned teeth.

Orthodontic Treatment in Kırşehir

Properly aligned teeth are not merely an aesthetic preference. Crooked teeth make cleaning more difficult and increase the risk of cavities and gum disease; a malocclusion, on the other hand, reduces chewing efficiency and can contribute to strain on the jaw joint over time. Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that aims to correct these issues.

At Ayaz Dent Dental Clinic in Kırşehir, orthodontic treatment is not based solely on aligning the teeth. Bite relationship, jaw development, gum health, and soft tissue profile are all evaluated together. The goal is to achieve a functional and balanced result that can be maintained even after treatment is complete.

On this page, you will find information on when orthodontic treatment is necessary, which methods are used, the factors affecting treatment duration, and the importance of the retention period. This content is for informational purposes only; a treatment decision can only be made following an examination, model analysis, and radiographic evaluation.

What is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the field concerned with the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of malocclusions of the teeth and jaws. Treatment is based on the principle of moving teeth within the bone by applying controlled and continuous force. This movement is not sudden but occurs at the rate of biological remodeling.

The applied force triggers a process of bone resorption on one side of the tooth and bone formation on the other. For this reason, orthodontic movement takes time, and the continuity of the force is more important than its intensity. Applying excessive force does not speed up the process; on the contrary, it may pose a risk to the roots and supporting tissues.

Orthodontics is not limited to teeth alone. Guiding jaw growth in patients during their developmental years is also part of this field. When performed at the right time, such interventions can reduce the need for future surgery.

When is orthodontic treatment necessary?

The main conditions that may require an orthodontic evaluation are as follows:

• Overlapping or crooked teeth
• Unwanted gaps between teeth (diastema)
• Upper teeth that protrude noticeably
• An overjet and crossbite
• Open bite, where the front teeth do not touch
• Deep bite, where the lower teeth cover the upper teeth excessively
• Impacted or misaligned teeth
• Midline deviations and smile asymmetry

Some of these findings may not cause aesthetic concerns; however, they can have functional effects. For example, a crossbite can lead to unilateral chewing and, over time, asymmetrical muscle development. Therefore, decisions are not based solely on appearance.

Causes of Orthodontic Problems

Genetic factors play a significant role in malocclusions. The mismatch between jaw size and tooth size is largely genetically determined; a small jaw may not provide enough space for normal-sized teeth.

Environmental factors also influence the situation. Prolonged thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting, mouth breathing, and early loss of baby teeth can affect tooth alignment. When a baby tooth is lost prematurely, adjacent teeth may shift toward the gap, leaving no room for the permanent tooth.

Trauma-related injuries to the teeth and jaw can also lead to malocclusion in the long term. Therefore, monitoring development during childhood allows problems to be detected before they become severe. For more detailed information, please visit our pediatric dentistry page.

The Impact of Malocclusion on Daily Life

Bite refers to the way the upper and lower teeth come into contact with each other. In an ideal bite, chewing force is distributed evenly across all teeth. When this balance is disrupted, some teeth bear more than their fair share of the load; over time, this can lead to wear, enamel cracks, or sensitivity in those areas.

Another consequence of an unbalanced bite is fatigue in the chewing muscles. Some patients describe tension in the jaw area in the morning, pain around the temples, or difficulty opening their mouths. While an improper bite may not be the sole cause of these complaints, it can be one of the contributing factors.

Speech may also be affected. Patients with an open bite, particularly in the front region, may experience difficulty pronouncing certain letters. Once the tooth alignment is corrected, some of these difficulties resolve on their own; in other cases, however, additional support may be required.

The aesthetic aspect should not be overlooked. The smile line, the relationship between the teeth and the lips, and midline alignment all affect how a person feels when smiling. However, the decision to undergo orthodontic treatment is not based solely on these expectations but is made in conjunction with a functional evaluation.

Why is crowding not just a cosmetic issue?

The spaces between overlapping teeth cannot be thoroughly cleaned with a toothbrush. Plaque that accumulates in these areas creates a favorable environment for both cavities and gum inflammation. Over time, tartar buildup increases, making cleaning even more difficult.

This cycle can contribute to long-term loss of periodontal support. In other words, while crowding may not be a direct cause of disease, it is a factor that increases the risk. When teeth are properly aligned, both brushing and flossing are more effective.

Additionally, restorative procedures are more difficult on crooked teeth. Achieving smooth margins on fillings, planning crowns, or fitting dentures yields much more predictable results in a properly aligned mouth.

How is orthodontic treatment performed?

The treatment process begins with a detailed analysis and is completed with a retention phase. Each stage has its own specific purpose.

1. Orthodontic Analysis and Diagnosis

During the initial appointment, a clinical examination is performed, and intraoral and facial photographs are taken. Dental models are obtained; these models can be created using traditional impressions or a digital scanner. Panoramic X-rays and cephalometric films are used to evaluate jaw relationships and tooth roots.

This data is compiled to determine the source of the problem. Is the problem solely related to the teeth, or is there a skeletal discrepancy? This distinction is crucial in selecting the treatment method. While dental issues can be resolved with orthodontic appliances, advanced skeletal discrepancies may require different approaches.

2. Treatment Planning

The analysis results are shared with the patient. The recommended method, estimated treatment duration, the need for tooth extraction (if necessary), and possible alternatives are explained. In some cases, extraction may be necessary to resolve space issues; in others, expansion or moving the back teeth backward may be preferred.

The patient’s age, daily life, and expectations are also taken into account during planning. For example, since clear aligner treatment requires wearing the aligners for long hours each day, fixed appliances may provide more predictable results for patients who are unlikely to comply with the regimen.

3. Appliance Application and Active Treatment

Depending on the selected system, brackets are bonded or a set of aligners is provided. In fixed orthodontic treatment, appointments are scheduled at specific intervals; during each appointment, the wires are adjusted or the aligners are activated. The regularity of these appointments directly affects the duration of treatment.

Sensitivity and a sensation of pressure in the teeth are common in the first few days; this usually subsides within a few days. Orthodontic wax can be used if the brackets irritate the cheek or lip mucosa.

4. Retention Period

Treatment is not considered complete once the appliances are removed. The teeth are not yet stable in their new positions and tend to shift back to their original positions. Retention appliances are used to prevent this tendency.

Retention can be achieved either with a thin wire permanently bonded to the back surfaces of the teeth or with removable clear aligners. The duration and method of use are determined by the dentist. Neglecting this phase can lead to the loss of the results of years of treatment; this is the most common cause of relapse.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

The duration of treatment varies significantly from case to case. While a few months may be sufficient for simple alignment corrections, treatment for complex cases involving a malocclusion can take up to two years.

The main factors affecting the duration are as follows:

• The severity of the malocclusion and the presence of skeletal discrepancies
• The patient’s age and bone response
• Whether tooth extraction is necessary
• The type of appliance selected
• Regular attendance at appointments
• Compliance with the use of elastics or aligners
• Maintenance of oral hygiene

Some of these factors are within the patient’s control. In particular, the use of elastics and adherence to the appointment schedule can shorten or extend the treatment duration by several months. The estimated treatment time provided at the beginning of treatment is just that—an estimate—and may be updated as the process progresses.

Orthodontics in Children and Age Groups

Orthodontics has different goals for each age group. Proper timing affects both the duration and scope of treatment.

Early Phase (ages 6–10)

The goal during this period is generally to guide jaw development and prevent space-related issues. A narrow upper jaw, crossbite, or significant skeletal discrepancy can be managed more easily during the early phase because growth potential supports the treatment.

Early intervention is not necessary for every child. It is recommended that the first orthodontic evaluation be conducted around age seven; the purpose of this evaluation is not to begin treatment but to determine the appropriate time to start, if necessary.

Adolescence (ages 11–16)

This period, during which most permanent teeth have erupted and growth continues, is a commonly preferred timeframe for conventional orthodontic treatment. Bone response is good, and jaw growth can be utilized.

Oral hygiene is of particular importance in this age group. Plaque buildup around braces can lead to permanent white spots on the enamel surface. Therefore, regular checkups and proper brushing are essential throughout treatment.

Orthodontics for Adults

There is no upper age limit for orthodontic treatment. The determining factor is not age, but the health of the gum and bone support structures. As long as the supporting tissues are suitable, tooth movement can be achieved even in older adults.

Since growth is complete in adults, the correction of skeletal malocclusions is limited. In such cases, either camouflage treatment is applied, or if there is a severe malocclusion, a surgically assisted approach is considered; you can find more information on this topic on our oral and maxillofacial surgery page.

In adult patients, orthodontics is often part of a prosthetic or aesthetic treatment plan. Aligning the teeth into the proper position can help ensure that subsequent smile design or prosthetic procedures are more protective.

Types of Orthodontic Appliances

Orthodontic appliances are divided into two main groups: fixed and removable. The choice between these groups depends on the type of movement to be corrected and the patient’s age.

Fixed appliances

In fixed systems, brackets are bonded to the surface of each tooth and connected to one another by a wire. The wire applies a constant force to guide the teeth toward their intended positions. Brackets can be made of metal, or they can be produced from ceramic or composite materials that closely match the color of the teeth.

Ceramic brackets are less noticeable from an aesthetic standpoint; however, they may be more fragile than metal brackets and come at a different cost. Systems placed on the tongue side are invisible from the outside, but the adjustment period may be more challenging.

The greatest advantage of fixed systems is that they function independently of patient compliance. Since the appliance cannot be removed from the mouth, treatment proceeds without interruption. For this reason, they are preferred in cases requiring complex tooth movements.

Removable Appliances and Functional Devices

Removable appliances can be put in and taken out by the patient. They are used primarily in children during their growth phase for simple tooth movements and jaw guidance. Expanders used for narrow upper jaws are well-known examples of this group.

Functional appliances, on the other hand, aim to guide jaw relationships during the growth period. In cases where the lower jaw is set back, the position is corrected by utilizing growth potential. The effectiveness of these appliances is directly dependent on the duration of use.

The success of removable systems relies heavily on patient and family compliance. An appliance that is not worn for the recommended duration will not produce the expected results. For this reason, a realistic compliance assessment is conducted before starting treatment.

Clear aligners or braces?

One of the most common questions patients ask is which system is better. The correct answer depends on the specific case; both methods have their strengths.

Fixed braces offer extensive control over complex movements and rotational corrections. They are less dependent on patient compliance because the system cannot be removed from the mouth. Options include metal, ceramic, or tooth-colored braces. The downside is that they are more visible and require greater care to keep clean.

Clear aligners are less noticeable aesthetically and provide comfort during meals and brushing because they can be removed. However, to be effective, they must be worn for long hours each day. If the patient does not comply, the treatment goal will not be achieved, and the duration will be extended.

When making a decision, the complexity of the case, the patient’s daily routine, and their expectations are all evaluated together. At our clinic, the advantages and limitations of both options are clearly explained; aesthetic concerns alone do not determine the choice of method.

Relationship with Orthodontics and Other Treatments

Orthodontic treatment is rarely planned in isolation; it often lays the groundwork for other treatments or is carried out in conjunction with them.

In prosthetic planning, orthodontics ensures that the space left by a missing tooth is brought to the appropriate size. The space left by a tooth that has been missing for a long time may have narrowed due to the shifting of adjacent teeth. An implant or bridge placed without first correcting this space may appear disproportionate.

In aesthetic treatments, orthodontics serves as the most protective preparatory step. When tooth positions are corrected, the amount of restoration required afterward is reduced. This means more healthy tooth structure is preserved.

It also offers benefits from a periodontal perspective. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, and plaque buildup is reduced. However, if the supporting tissues are weak, orthodontic forces must be applied with caution; in such cases, periodontal treatment is completed first.

In cases of skeletal malocclusion requiring surgery, orthodontic and surgical treatment are planned together. Preoperative preparation, the surgical phase, and postoperative fine-tuning form a single, integrated process.

Oral Care During Orthodontic Treatment

Oral hygiene requires even more attention than usual during orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic appliances create new surfaces where plaque can adhere.

• You should develop the habit of brushing after every meal.
• An orthodontic toothbrush and an interdental brush help clean around the brackets.
• Special floss threaders may be used for flossing.
• Avoid hard and sticky foods; bracket detachment can prolong treatment.
• Chewing hard-shelled foods and ice can damage the braces.
• Those using clear aligners should clean them regularly and avoid washing them with hot water.

If gum bleeding or swelling is observed, this should be reported to the dentist. Gum problems that develop during treatment can negatively affect tooth movement and the final result; periodontal support is planned if deemed necessary.

Frequently Asked Technical Questions in Orthodontics

Feeling slight looseness in the teeth during treatment is one of the situations that worries patients the most. This sensation stems from the remodeling of the supporting tissues to allow the tooth to move within the bone and is an expected response during the process. Once treatment is complete, the teeth will stabilize again in their new positions.

Another common concern is the effect of orthodontic treatment on tooth roots. In treatments conducted with controlled forces, this risk is kept to a minimum. Applying excessive or intermittent force can lead to unwanted changes on the root surface; therefore, it is important to adhere to appointment schedules.

There is no need to panic if a bracket comes off; however, you should notify the clinic and schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Every week spent with a loose bracket means that the movement of that tooth stops, which extends the total treatment time. Similarly, if a wire pokes through the gum, orthodontic wax can be used temporarily.

Another frequently asked question is whether teeth whitening can be performed during orthodontic treatment. Teeth whitening performed while fixed braces are in place can cause the areas under the brackets to remain a different color. For this reason, cosmetic procedures are generally scheduled for after treatment; please visit our teeth whitening page for more details.

The Decision to Extract Teeth in Orthodontic Treatment

In cases where space is an issue, the most debated topic is whether tooth extraction is necessary. This decision is not made arbitrarily; it is determined by evaluating space analysis, facial profile, and lip position together.

The space required to correct crowding is calculated. This space can be created through methods such as moving the back teeth backward, expanding the dental arch, or minimal interproximal reduction. Extraction is considered only when these options are insufficient.

Facial profile is also a key factor in the decision to extract a tooth. In a patient with a recessed lip position, extraction may further flatten the profile. For this reason, different decisions may be made for two patients with the same degree of crowding.

Generally, the small molars are preferred; however, this is not a hard-and-fast rule. If a tooth has a poor prognosis, it is evaluated first. Before a decision is made, alternatives are discussed with the patient, and the rationale is explained.

The belief that treatment without extraction is always better is a common misconception. Forcing a curve when there is insufficient space can lead to gum recession and an increased tendency for relapse after treatment.

Orthodontic Costs in Kırşehir

Orthodontic treatment costs vary depending on the complexity of the case, the type of appliance selected, the estimated treatment duration, the number of follow-up appointments, and the scope of the retention phase. A simple alignment correction cannot be evaluated in the same category as a comprehensive treatment involving skeletal malocclusion.

At our clinic, treatments are planned in accordance with the Turkish Dental Association’s current fee schedule for oral and dental health examinations and treatments. Providing a definitive price quote without an orthodontic analysis would not be realistic, as the treatment plan can only be finalized after evaluating models and X-rays.

You can schedule an appointment through our contact page for a personalized evaluation.

Maintaining Results After Treatment

The most delicate phase of orthodontic treatment is the first few months after the appliances are removed. The connective tissue fibers surrounding the teeth need time to adapt to their new positions. If a retainer is not used during this process, the teeth may begin to shift back toward their original positions.

Fixed retention wires are invisible because they are bonded to the back surfaces of the teeth and do not depend on patient compliance. However, since tartar buildup can occur around these wires, regular checkups are necessary. If a wire breaks, you should contact the clinic immediately.

Removable retainer plates, on the other hand, are typically worn for longer periods initially and, later on, usually only at night. The schedule for use is determined individually by the dentist. If the plate is lost or becomes deformed, it must be replaced; a deformed plate can misalign the teeth.

It is known that there may be a slight tendency for movement in the lower front region throughout one’s lifetime. For this reason, long-term planning for retention is common and does not indicate treatment failure. Regular checkups ensure that minor changes are detected early.

Dietary Recommendations During Treatment

Some adjustments to dietary habits are necessary while wearing fixed orthodontic appliances. The purpose of these adjustments is both to protect the appliance and to keep the tooth surfaces healthy.

Hard foods can cause brackets to come loose and wires to bend. Hard-shelled nuts, ice, hard candies, and meat with bones fall into this category. Hard fruits and vegetables, such as apples and carrots, can be cut into small pieces rather than bitten into.

Sticky foods, on the other hand, can accumulate around the brackets, making cleaning difficult. It is recommended to avoid gum, caramel, and similar products.

Frequent consumption of sugary and acidic beverages can create conditions conducive to white spot lesions around the braces. These spots may become permanent after the braces are removed and can turn into an aesthetic problem.

For patients using clear aligners, the aligners are removed during meals; as such, dietary restrictions are fewer. However, nothing other than water should be consumed while the aligners are in place. Colored beverages can cause the aligners to discolor.

The Relationship Between Orthodontics and the Temporomandibular Joint

Complaints such as clicking sounds in the temporomandibular joint, fatigue in the jaw area upon waking in the morning, or difficulty opening the mouth wide are present in a portion of patients who come in for an orthodontic evaluation. Tooth alignment is not the sole cause of these complaints; muscle tension, teeth-grinding habits, stress, and individual differences in joint structure also contribute to the condition.

It is known that malocclusions can alter the distribution of force on the joint. In particular, in cases such as unilateral crossbite or pronounced open bite, chewing force is not distributed evenly. Correcting these conditions can help establish a more balanced chewing pattern in the long term. However, it would be incorrect to expect that orthodontic treatment will definitively resolve joint-related complaints.

For this reason, treatment plans are formulated with greater care for patients with temporomandibular joint complaints. During periods when muscle-related pain is predominant, the initial goal is to alleviate the symptoms; initiating tooth movement while active pain is present makes it difficult for the patient to tolerate the process. A night guard, muscle-relaxing exercises, or habit management may be employed at this stage.

At Ayaz Dent in Kırşehir, an orthodontic examination is not limited solely to tooth alignment; the bite relationship, muscle sensitivity, and any signs of wear are evaluated together. When necessary, a collaborative plan is carried out with other specialties. The goal is to achieve not only an aesthetic result but also sustainable function in the long term. This approach includes monitoring joint and muscle complaints even after treatment is complete.

Conclusion

Orthodontic treatment is a process that requires patience but yields results that can be maintained for many years. Proper alignment positively affects not only your smile but also ease of cleaning, chewing balance, and gum health.

The two most critical components of success are proper planning and patient compliance. Attending appointments regularly, adhering to recommended wear times, and taking the retention period seriously ensure that the results are long-lasting.

At Ayaz Dent in Kırşehir, we approach orthodontic treatment not merely as a cosmetic procedure but as a functional correction. Following an evaluation, we’ll discuss the options best suited for you, along with their benefits and limitations. Treatment results may vary from person to person.

The type of appliance suitable for you and the estimated treatment duration can only be discussed after a clinical examination and the necessary records have been taken. You can schedule an appointment for an orthodontic evaluation and discuss your treatment options with the Ayaz Dent team in Kırşehir.