Orthodontics

Orthodontics is a crucial dental specialty for correcting issues with the alignment of teeth and jaws.

At our clinic in San José, Costa Rica, we use modern and effective appliances to treat dental malformations and bite problems.

Discover how orthodontics can transform your smile and improve your dental health.

Types of Orthodontic Treatments

1. Fixed Orthodontics

Fixed orthodontics is ideal for cases that require continuous treatment.

Components include:

• Dental Brackets: These small devices are attached to the surface of the teeth.

  Available in metal, ceramic, or sapphire, brackets help apply pressure to align the teeth.

• Orthodontic Archwires: Wires that connect the brackets and allow controlled movement of the teeth.

Within fixed brackets, there are two notable types:

• Traditional Brackets: Generally made of metal or ceramic, these are used with elastic ligatures to hold the archwires in place.

• Self-Ligating Brackets: These brackets feature a self-ligating mechanism that secures the archwire without the need for elastic ligatures.

  They offer benefits such as greater comfort, reduced friction, and more efficient treatment, minimizing the frequency of orthodontic visits.

In some cases, tooth extraction may be necessary to create the space needed for proper alignment.

2. Dental Aligners

Dental aligners are a modern and discreet alternative to traditional brackets.

They use a series of clear, removable trays to gradually move teeth to their ideal position.

Some advantages of dental aligners include:

• Aesthetic: Being transparent, they are almost invisible and do not affect your smile’s appearance during treatment.

• Comfort: They can be removed for eating and brushing, making oral hygiene easier.

• Fewer Visits: They require fewer visits to the orthodontist compared to traditional brackets.

3. Removable Orthodontics

Removable orthodontic appliances are suitable for less complex treatments and offer patient comfort.

They include:

• Removable Appliances: Used to correct specific dental issues, these are a more affordable and practical option.

  Ideal for treating individual teeth or minor problems.

4. Semi-Removable Appliances

These devices combine features of both fixed and removable treatments.

They can be adjusted by the orthodontist during appointments, but the patient cannot remove them on their own.

Duration of Orthodontic Treatment

The duration of orthodontic treatment depends on the complexity of the case.

Generally, treatments for minor issues last between 6 and 8 months, while more severe cases may require up to 3 years.

Sometimes, a preliminary treatment stage with removable appliances is used to correct bite problems before proceeding with the main treatment.

Orthodontics for Children and Adults in San José

At our clinic in San José, we offer orthodontic solutions for all ages.

Removable appliances, dental aligners, and self-ligating brackets can be effective solutions for children, helping to correct dental issues and improve self-esteem.

For adults, we offer treatments that address misaligned teeth without lengthy procedures.

What Are Retainers?

At the end of orthodontic treatment, retainers are used to ensure that the teeth remain in their new position.

These can be fixed or removable and help stabilize the teeth while the gums and bones adapt to the changes.

How to Know if You Need Orthodontics

If you have bite problems or dental malformations, it is important to consult an orthodontist.

At our clinic in San José, we evaluate your case through a clinical examination, X-rays, dental models, and photographs.

There is no age limit for starting orthodontic treatment; what matters is obtaining the right evaluation to determine the best treatment for you.