Orthodontics is the branch of science that examines the crookedness of the teeth, the relationship of the jaw bones with each other and the bones of the head, and diagnoses the existing problems related to these. Orthodontic treatment is a way of treating disorders in this system.

Can orthodontic treatment replace my teeth?
With orthodontic treatment, crooked teeth and gaps can be easily corrected and a correct and healthy smile can be achieved.

Why does crowding occur?

  • While hereditary factors play a role in the causes of orthodontic disorders, the factors are mostly environmental factors. Crowdings may be due to hereditary actual space constraints, or they may be due to purely environmental factors. Teeth erupt in places different from where they should erupt due to tooth decay due to poor oral hygiene and loss of space due to early loss of primary teeth. For this reason, crowding and malocclusion occur.
  • In addition, habits such as mouth breathing, thumb sucking, lip or tongue sucking, nail biting, pencil biting, long-term use of bottles and pacifiers can lead to permanent skeletal problems. In addition, tonsil and adenoid problems, which are common in children, can cause permanent disorders in the maxillofacial system if not treated in time.

Will my teeth straighten after this age? Can adults have orthodontic treatment?


It can be easily treated in adults. Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to move teeth at any age with healthy gums. However, since anormalities diagnosed early have more treatment options, closure must be evaluated at an early age by an orthodontist.

What is the ideal age for orthodontics?
Generally, the ideal age for the treatment of dental disorders is around 10-12 years of age, when the change of milk teeth is about to be completed and the time for the change of canine teeth. However, early treatment is of great importance in some jaw-related problems and in quitting bad habits. That’s why you should definitely ask your dentist for an orthodontist consultation around the age of 6-7, when fissure protectors are applied.

How will I know if I need orthodontic treatment?
The first orthodontic check is made by the orthodontist at the age of 6-7, when permanent dentition begins. Your subsequent check-ups will be done by your dentist. Around the age of 10-12, your doctor may request orthodontist consultation again if necessary. In addition, even in adulthood, orthodontic treatment can be performed when necessary to assist prosthetic treatment or for aesthetic purposes.

How long will my orthodontic treatment take?
Active treatment lasts an average of 1.5-2 years. However, time varies depending on the type of treatment, the age and cooperation of the patient. It can be shorter or longer.

Will my appointments last long? How often will I come?
The first appointment or two, where your records will be taken and your braces will be installed, may take up to an hour. Your subsequent appointments will be every 3 to 4 weeks and last between 15 minutes and half an hour unless there is a brace breakage or wire breakage.

Do I need to have teeth extractions?
In order to provide space in very crowded mouths, permanent teeth can be extracted.

Will it hurt when the braces are put on, will it harm my teeth or me?
Brackets are glued to your teeth with a special adhesive and do not hurt at all. It may cause some soft tissue injuries in the lips and cheeks in the first few days of their application, but this is temporary.

The risk of tooth decay increases during orthodontic treatment, so it is very important that no food residue accumulates between the braces. Teeth and the spaces between the braces should be cleaned after every meal.

Will my braces be visible?
The main element of fixed orthodontic treatment are the braces. Braces are available in metal, plastic and porcelain types and are bonded to the enamel surface of the teeth. In addition, treatment can be performed with braces applied by the tongue and removable transparent plates. During treatment, orthopedic devices (extraoral appliances) can be used to achieve skeletal movement with forces directed to the jawbone, especially at early ages when growth and development are active.

What can we do to prevent orthodontic disorder?

The family can prevent or minimize environmental factors. First of all, a periodic dental check-up is essential. Regular fluoride application and protective application to permanent molars are necessary starting from the primary dentition. In addition, milk teeth that had to be extracted early must be preserved in place until the permanent teeth erupt, and for this purpose, space maintainers must be made.

It is necessary to discourage children from bad habits such as thumb sucking, using a bottle for a long time, and mouth breathing until the age of 4 at the latest. After this age, disorders in maxillofacial development become permanent.

When the family or dentist suspects any disorder in the jaw and teeth, it is beneficial to be evaluated by an orthodontist.