Dr. Epistatu Dragos Institut Dental

What is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the dental specialty that deals with the diagnosis, prevention and correction of tooth position and occlusion (bite). Proper orthodontic treatment means not only a beautiful smile, but also efficient chewing, better hygiene and long-term health of the entire dento-maxillary apparatus.

Fixed appliances

Spark

clear aligners, almost invisible, comfortable and easy to wear

Damon, Speed (metal)

self-ligating bracket system that reduces treatment duration and doctor visits

Saphire (America)

esthetic fixed appliance with transparent brackets, discreet and elegant

Edgewise Method (Germany)

classic bracket treatment, effective for multiple types of malocclusions

Removable appliances

Removable plate

recommended for children, for early correction of tooth position

Twin block

functional appliance for stimulating mandibular growth and improving bite

Expander

used for widening the palate (upper jaw)

Benefit type appliance

for molar movement

MARPE

expander anchored on mini-implants, for palatal expansion in teenagers and adults

Herbst with expander

functional appliance used in correcting bite or mandibular retrognathism

Our approach

In our clinic, the treatment plan is personalized for each patient, using a wide range of modern and efficient orthodontic appliances.

About orthodontic treatment

Foods to avoid

Hard foods (biscuits, crackers, raw carrots, nuts, etc.) can cause bracket detachment resulting in wires that poke the cheeks. These situations become orthodontic emergencies. Sticky foods (candies, halva, etc.) remain between the appliance elements and are difficult to remove.

Check-ups and hygiene

Check-ups are done at the interval specified by the doctor. After check-ups, the patient may feel tension that subsequently disappears within 24-48 hours. Patient hygiene is very important.

Hygiene for removable appliances

For removable appliances (in order): rinsing with water, dental floss, brushing, mouthwash

Hygiene for fixed appliances

For fixed appliances (in order): rinsing with water, super floss or special small brush, oral irrigator, then thorough dental brushing, mouthwash; children and teenagers must be supervised by parents until they master the correct technique.

Factors that prolong treatment

- Treatment duration increases if:
- The patient does not attend scheduled check-ups;
- The patient does not maintain good oral hygiene (gingival inflammation, cavities, periodontal pockets may occur);
- The patient has harmful habits (thumb sucking or lower lip sucking, tongue thrusting, etc.);
- There are dental ankyloses (teeth fused to bone);
- There are associated metabolic problems (vitamin deficiencies, diabetes, etc.).

Important aspects

Facial bone growth in children and teenagers can sometimes act unpredictably or contrary to treatment actions. In these cases, orthognathic surgical treatment may be recommended. Radiographs (OPG and Tele-Rx) are mandatory at the beginning and end of treatment. Post-treatment retention is necessary in most cases.

Important observations

During or after orthodontic treatment, joint manifestations (noises, subluxations, pain) may occur at the temporomandibular joint level. These usually disappear after a period of time following the completion of orthodontic treatment.
During treatment, certain teeth that previously had pulp necrosis may become symptomatic (painful, etc.), requiring root canal treatment; also, some limited root resorptions may be noted.
Changing the occlusion (bite) leads to changes in the posture (position) of the entire body and even walking. Therefore, postural analysis is recommended at the beginning and end of orthodontic treatment.
After treatment, teeth tend to return to their initial position. Wearing the retention appliance stops or limits this phenomenon.

Benefits

By using the most modern techniques and appliances, orthodontic treatments become faster, more comfortable and more aesthetic, adapted to the needs of each patient - from children to adults.