Specialing in Orthodontics Vari | Tagkli Katerina

An initial orthodontic evaluation according to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) should be performed at age 7.

A timely diagnosis or detection of future malocclusion and the decision of when and if orthodontic treatment is needed. Early treatment can prevent the development of more serious problems and make orthodontic treatment shorter and less complicated in old age.

Even if a child’s teeth seem to be straight, there may be a problem that only an orthodontist can detect, because the orthodontist specialises not only in the examination and treatment of the eruption and movement of the teeth, but also in the correct skeletal development of the jaw skeleton, in order to achieve a harmonious occlusion of the teeth and a harmonious aesthetic of the face.

The specialist orthodontist can therefore identify specific problems related to the development of the jaw and the future eruption of the permanent teeth, even if the milk teeth are still present.

Even if the type of orthodontic malocclusion does not require immediate orthodontic treatment, the orthodontist will advise you and recommend regular monitoring of the growth and development of the dentition and jaws.

By having an early orthodontic exam, you give your child the opportunity to have a healthy and beautiful smile!!!

The main benefits are:

Correct function of the maxillofacial system (mastication and speech – speech articulation).

A beautiful smile and a harmonious face, and thus individual self-confidence and positive psychology.

Easier to maintain good oral hygiene in crowded teeth.

Facilitation of the general dentist and other specialties.

Reducing the risk of injury to teeth, especially when they protrude from the lips, especially in young people (protruding upper anterior teeth).

First appointment -Clinical examination of the patient.

During the patient’s first visit, the orthodontist inquires about the reasons why the patient wants orthodontic treatment, as well as his main complaints regarding his teeth, the appearance of his smile, and his face. This is followed by a brief clinical examination by the orthodontist and his evaluation of the patient’s orthodontic problem, as well as whether and when orthodontic treatment should be started. The patient also has the opportunity to ask questions about orthodontic treatment and, if necessary, is referred for additional diagnostic documentation, such as a panoramic radiograph, lateral cephalometric radiograph, etc.

During the second visit, diagnostic data is collected and a diagnostic file is created for each patient (e.g., x-rays, photographs, impressions), which helps the orthodontist to create and propose an appropriate personalized treatment plan.

Before the treatment begins, there is a detailed discussion between the patient and the orthodontist about the treatment plan. This discussion will outline what the treatment is about, what results can be expected after the treatment is completed, how the patient’s active participation in the orthodontic treatment will contribute decisively to its success, as well as the expected duration of the treatment and the associated costs.

Of course, all possible questions and alternative solutions are discussed and answered at this stage. Once the patient agrees to his treatment plan, the date for the start of orthodontic treatment is scheduled. The orthodontist will show you all the options so that you feel comfortable and satisfied with your orthodontic appliance!

Regular appointments are an important part of orthodontic treatment. Generally, depending on the type of brackets you have, the orthodontist will want to see you every 4-6 weeks to check on the progress of your treatment and make adjustments to your braces or removable appliances.

At the end of your orthodontic treatment, the braces are removed, the teeth are cleaned, and the final step is to preserve the results! Retainers are specially designed to keep your teeth in their corrected position until the bones, gums and muscles have adjusted to the change. This final stage is necessary to maintain a beautiful smile for life! The orthodontist will recommend a retainer that is appropriate for your orthodontic problem, as well as the length of treatment.

Depending on the nature and severity of the orthodontic problem at the diagnostic and therapeutic level, it varies from a few months to a few years. The age of the patient seeking orthodontic treatment is also a determining factor.

Greater chance of avoiding extraction of permanent teeth.

Better control of skeletal problems, since orthodontic treatment before puberty can influence the growth of the skeleton.

Better tissue response to treatment.

Better adaptation of adolescent patients to the mechanisms and better cooperation.

Practically easier treatment, since elementary school children have fewer obligations than high school students.

Younger children are not shy and generally do not have the inhibitions as older children./p>

When treatment begins earlier, puberty is almost complete and youngsters generally have more confidence due to the improved appearance of their teeth and face.

In adult patients whose jaws have completed their skeletal growth, treatments requiring extraction of permanent teeth are more common, or surgery may be required if skeletal problems are present.

Yes, it is very important to visit your dentist regularly during your orthodontic treatment, and you should have your teeth cleaned more frequently (every 4-6 months). Also, regular use of fluoride at the dentist’s office will help prevent dental cavities (caries).

The exact cost of orthodontic treatment is individual and depends on many factors, such as the type of malocclusion, the duration of treatment and the type of orthodontic appliances used. Therefore, it is defined after a personal diagnosis and planning of the orthodontic treatment, and for this purpose it is necessary to examine the patients in our clinic first.

In any case, the cost refers to the entire duration of the treatment, the total number of appointments required and all the appliances needed. The repayment is made gradually during the treatment, which can last up to 2-3 years.