Q & A

When should I consult?

As with any medical intervention, it is better to begin treatment early. Additionally, it is advisable to speak to us when consulting your doctor regarding your malocclusion or dentofacial deformity.

Is orthodontic treatment possible for adults, as well as children and teenagers?

Orthodontic treatment is possible at any age if you have teeth. However, there are times when treatment becomes difficult; for example, cases of severe dental caries or of periodontal disease.

What is the treatment duration?

In growing children, the treatment duration varies depending on the occlusal state and growth of the patient. Our treatment mainly consists of growth modification of either the maxilla or the mandible, and improvement of abnormal tooth eruption. After the jaw-growing phase, we align the teeth using a multi-bracket appliance for 1-3 years.

Is orthodontic treatment possible without tooth extraction?

This depends on the discrepancy between tooth and jaw size; on incisor protrusion, which affects facial esthetics; or on jaw discrepancy. on the basis of these parameters, we will determine whether or not tooth removal is necessary after pretreatment examinations.

Will I experience any pain during the treatment?

When the device is attached for the first time and adjusted, it often causes pain, which peaks the next day. However, this pain usually subsides within the next few days. Some people do not experience pain from the procedure. Please contact us if the pain persists for a week or more.

How often do I have to visit the orthodontic department to have the appliance adjusted?

You’ll usually visit an orthodontic section about once every 4 weeks. However, this depends on the status of the orthodontic treatment. An observational visit once every 2-6 may suffice.

I am a student preparing for an exam. Will the orthodontic treatment disturb my learning?

Some people feel it is a burden to visit a hospital regularly once every 4 weeks, and others do not. Before commencing orthodontic treatment, we consider life events, such as entrance into a higher-level school or college, employment, and moving plans for the next several years.

I have to suddenly move during the treatment period. Can I continue the treatment after the move?

When visiting our hospital becomes impossible, we will introduce you to an orthodontic clinic at your new location, and ask them to continue the treatment. In such a case, please inform us in advance, so that we may prepare the necessary materials ? a copy of the treatment plan, photographs of the face and mouth, dies, and X-rays ? by which we can explain the progress of your treatment to date.

What precautions should I take during treatment?

Brushing your teeth will be difficult because of the device. However, a long period of poor oral hygiene will cause tooth decay and periodontal disease. Therefore, please try to brush firmly using toothpaste.

Are there any foods that I should avoid during the treatment?

Gum, caramel, and, sticky foods such as rice cakes cannot be eaten easily during the treatment. Please refrain from eating such foods.

Can I participate in sports during the treatment?

If you participate in sports at the same time as being treated with a multi-bracket system, the apparatus may cause abrasive injury to your lips. A mouth guard can prevent such injuries. Please let us know if you need a mouth guard.

Will I experience pain when an anchor screw is inserted?

The screw insertion process lasts for about 5?10 minutes during the treatment. After the insertion, the head of the screw protrudes from the gingiva; however, pain during the treatment is rare. A part of the screw head usually comes in contact with the cheeks and tongue 1?2 months after the insertion, and pain may develop in rare cases.

Do you have an inconspicuous correction device available?

By using a transparent bracket, it is possible to make the device as inconspicuous as possible. In addition, if you would like a more inconspicuous device, the lingual bracket correction method, which employs a correction device attached to the back of the teeth, is recommended.