How Does the Orthodontic Treatment Process Work?
Examination and Planning
Immediately before moving on to the examination phase; if there are no intraoral radiography images taken within the last 6 months, an intraoral dental film is taken with the panoramic radiology device in the clinic. After the intraoral film is taken, the patient’s examination process begins. Intraoral film and intraoral findings are evaluated and notes are taken. This information is shared with the patient and their companion after the examination.
During the examination phase, not only the orthodontic deformity of the teeth and jaw, but also evaluations such as whether the teeth need fillings or root canal treatment, whether there is a need for tartar cleaning, and whether the wisdom teeth need to be extracted are made, and all possible needs for the patient’s oral health are reviewed.
Treatment Planning
After the examination process is completed, the patient is given detailed information about their intraoral and orthodontic problems on the computer screen. At this stage, the devices to be used during orthodontic treatment and the points that the patient should pay attention to are also explained in detail. If the patient decides on orthodontic treatment, a personalized treatment plan is made by taking the patient’s intraoral and extraoral photographs and taking the necessary radiographic records, and making special measurements of these in the digital environment, and a treatment start appointment is created.
How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment Last?
The duration of orthodontic treatment is determined by the treatment program that will be prepared specifically for the patient by the physician. Treatment generally lasts until the desired result is achieved. While active orthodontic treatments last between 1-4 years, they are completed in two years on average. However, it should not be forgotten that due to the biological structures of some patients, they may respond to treatment earlier or later than other patients. In addition, preventive treatments and early treatments can be completed in just a few months. Therefore, the severity of the problem, the devices to be used, the facial and jaw structure, the health of the teeth, gums, and jawbone, and the patient’s compliance with the treatment are among the effective factors in this regard.
Post-Treatment Retention
Retention treatment is a part of orthodontic treatment. It is the stage that needs to be applied to prevent the deterioration of the order obtained after the removal of the intraoral appliances, wires, or transparent plate attachments immediately after the end of the treatment. These are transparent plates (essix plates) and retainer wires. It is necessary to use these devices applied after treatment regularly and to perform the necessary maintenance. Otherwise, there is a possibility that your treatment will regress. It is applied immediately after the end of the treatment and is ensured to be checked by your orthodontist with 6-month check-ups.