Orthodontics
Straightening the dental arch and correcting the bite — in children and in adults. Treatment is led by a specialist in orthodontics.
Not only appearance
Crooked teeth are the visible reason for coming, but rarely the only one. An irregular bite distributes load unevenly: certain teeth wear faster, the jaw joint is strained, and places that are hard to clean become a standing source of decay and gum inflammation.
Orthodontic treatment is therefore planned around the bite, not only around the look of the front teeth.
When to come for a first assessment
In children a first orthodontic assessment makes sense during mixed dentition — when both baby and permanent teeth are present. At that stage the jaw is still growing and some irregularities are resolved more simply, with a removable appliance.
In adults growth is complete, so treatment works by moving teeth, usually with fixed appliances. It is still perfectly possible — it simply takes longer and is planned differently. Healthy supporting tissue is a condition: untreated periodontal disease is dealt with before treatment, not during it.
How treatment proceeds
- Diagnostics. Examination, impressions or a digital scan, and radiographic diagnostics — a panoramic image and, where needed, a lateral view.
- The plan. The type of appliance is chosen and the duration estimated. The price for the whole course, not just the first step, is known at this point.
- Active phase. Wearing the appliance with check-ups every few weeks; the appliance is adjusted at each visit.
- Retention. A retainer is worn after the appliance comes off. This step is the one most often underestimated — without it the teeth drift back towards their old position.
How long it takes
Duration depends on how pronounced the irregularity is and whether growth is complete. In adults the active phase of fixed treatment is usually measured in a year and a half to two years; in children it is often shorter because growth helps.
Regularity affects duration more than anything: missed appointments and inconsistent wear of a removable appliance extend treatment more than the initial irregularity does.
Cost
Orthodontic treatment is not charged per procedure but as a plan — it depends on the type of appliance and the expected duration. The price is therefore given after the examination and scan, once the plan is known.
Prices for other dental procedures are on the price list page.
Frequently asked questions
Up to what age can teeth be straightened?
Does wearing braces hurt?
What is a retainer and why is it essential?
When should I bring my child for a first assessment?
Book an appointment
Booking is direct, no referral needed. Call whichever clinic is closest to you, or leave a request on the contact page.