Orthodontic Treatment Q&A

About Treatment:

- Can adults also undergo orthodontic treatment?

There's no age limit for orthodontic treatment. As long as the gums and jawbones are healthy, anyone can undergo orthodontic treatment. Recently, the number of patients aged 50 and above has been increasing.

- What are the options for invisible orthodontic appliances?

For those who want orthodontic treatment without it being noticeable, options include "lingual braces," which are placed on the back of the teeth, and "treatment using clear aligners." If minimal visibility is acceptable, there's also the option of "half lingual braces," where only the upper teeth have braces on the back, and the lower teeth have braces on the front.

- Is it common to experience pain or discomfort during orthodontic treatment?

It varies depending on the treatment method and individual pain sensitivity, but discomfort, especially when biting, may occur for a few days after adjusting the appliance. This discomfort gradually diminishes over the course of treatment. Initially, there might be some discomfort or difficulty speaking, but most people quickly adapt. We provide wax to cover the appliance or offer meal advice to help during this adjustment period.

- Can I remove the appliance just for my wedding?

For special life events, we can temporarily remove the appliance upon request to ensure your special day goes smoothly. We also offer options like lingual braces or clear aligners for "invisible orthodontic treatment."

- If I develop cavities during orthodontic treatment, can I still continue treatment?

During orthodontic treatment, we emphasize cavity prevention with professional cleanings and brushing instructions at each visit. If cavities develop despite preventive measures, we may need to remove the appliance as necessary and treat the cavities at your regular dental clinic.

- I prefer not to have teeth extracted for treatment if possible. Is that feasible?

While some patients have required extractions in the past, advances like implant treatment have made it possible to avoid extractions for many patients. We generally aim to avoid extractions whenever possible, so feel free to discuss your preferences with us.

- Can orthodontic treatment cure temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)?

The correlation between TMJ and dental alignment is still not fully understood. However, aligning teeth properly and achieving stable occlusion can reduce stress on the temporomandibular joint, helping prevent or alleviate TMJ issues.

- At what age should children start orthodontic treatment?

It's advisable to consult around the age of 7-8 when front teeth are changing. However, early treatment may be more effective for cases involving facial or jaw irregularities, so feel free to consult earlier if you notice any concerns. Starting treatment during childhood offers numerous benefits, so early intervention is recommended.

Payment and Others

- Does health insurance cover orthodontic treatment?

Generally, health insurance doesn't cover orthodontic treatment. However, orthodontic treatment for congenital conditions like cleft lip and palate or for jaw deformities (surgical orthodontics) may be covered.

- What are the payment options, and can I pay in installments?

We accept payment via credit card or bank transfer. Installment payments are possible with in-house installment plans with no interest or by using medical credit.

- If I relocate due to education or job transfer, can I continue treatment?

We'll discuss options with you and refer you to a nearby orthodontic specialist at your new location. We'll provide a treatment plan and progress report for a smooth transition to the new clinic.