Questions and Answers on Orthodontics

Orthodontics is a specialty of dental medicine dedicated to the correction of malpositions of the jaws (dentofacial orthopedics) and teeth (orthodontics) in order to optimize the occlusion (dental gear), as well as the relationship between the facial bones in a functional and aestheti way.

Only people who have completed at least 3 years of full-time training and who have obtained the corresponding University degree can boast the title of “specialist in orthodontics”. Aside from this, Orthodontics, however, is often performed by general dentists who have some knowledge of orthodontics.

The general confusion existing with the term orthodontist derives from the fact that in all these possible scenarios professionals can who present themselves as orthodontists. The easiest way to dispel any doubts about the professional qualifications is to refer to the Register of medical professions (https://www.medregom.admin.ch/fr).

The American Association of Orthodontists, that represents the international gold standard, says “no later than 7”. This reason being that most of the malocclusions if intercepted during childhood can be corrected with simple and effective devices.

This does not mean that we will put braces to all 7-year-olds kids, but that at years of age it is good to make a first orthodontic examination. Let’s not forget that in Switzerland the school dental service is very efficient and already intercepts severe cases.

The first visit allows you to make a preliminary assessment and establish an initial treatment plan if problems are found. This consultation is obviously sensitive to your possible personal requests and expectations.

You will also be informed of the approximate cost, the available devices, the ideal time (to start) and the expected duration of the treatment. An initial consultation report will be sent to you and the general practitioner.

Minor patients must always come for the first consultation with one of the parents or the responsible guardian.

The second appointment consists in the production of the documents necessary for the diagnosis of each patient, namely:

• photographs of the face and teeth
• x-rays
• dental molds
• clinical examination of the mouth and the masticatory system

For this appointment, patients (even minors) must not be accompanied by their parents or legal officers. However, this initial documentation is produced only with their consent.

A complete and detailed study of these documents will therefore allow us to develop a customized treatment plan. In some cases, multiple treatment plans and orthodontic devices may be available. We will investigate a possible coverage by the disability insurance or health insurance if the patient meets specific criteria.

The discussion meeting is very important. We will discuss the results of the initial documentation (diagnosis) and treatment plans. In the event that different therapeutic approaches are possible, the advantages and disadvantages of each treatment plan will be outlined to help you with your choice.

Although many different approaches are often possible, it is always necessary to tailor the treatment to the patient tolerance and degree of cooperation, and choose the device that is the best fit in relation to the treatment objectives.

You will be given a detailed explanation of the practical and administrative questions of the treatment. In this appointment we will provide you with the final quote for the chosen treatment.

Despite the fact that this consultation, in the case of minors, is of fundamental importance for the parents, my experience showed that the presence of the young patient himself  helps him/her to take greater responsibility for his/her treatment.

A written report on the diagnostic and therapeutic plan will be provided and a copy will be sent to the general dentist if desired with all the produced documentation up to that point.

Of course yes! Having caries on baby teeth does not prevent you from making an initial orthodontic visit.

We will do a thorough assessment before studying the case and if some teeth should be treated or extracted and we will coordinate everything with your trusted dentist.

Prognostic clinical signs of future orthodontic problems are:

• absence of spaces between the milk teeth or crowding
• early or late loss of milk teeth
• difficulty biting
• mouth breathing
• finger sucking or other flawed habits
• misaligned teeth
• protruding teeth
• joint noise

Home dental hygiene with the appliance iscertainly more complex and takes longer thannormal. It only requires some training (don’t worry, we will train you properly and give you all the tools you need !!) and patience to make it a routine.

Not only can you, but you must!

Maintaining good hygiene during orthodontic treatment is essential to be able to minimize the risk of tooth decay and gum problems. We recommend that you see your trusted hygienist at least every 4-6 months during orthodontic therapy.

If you don’t have a trusted hygienist, don’t worry, we also perform hygiene sessions!

Of course yes! During orthodontic therapy, it is essential that you regularly visit your dentist to diagnose any caries or gum problems. We provide periodical through examinations, but our routine checks do not replace the regular checks that only your trusted dentist can do! If you don’t have a trusted dentist … ask for advice! We work with the best colleagues in the area and we will recommend you to the colleague closest to your home.