Service

We recommend the first check-up with an orthodontist at around 5 to 6 years of age. 

This is usually when teeth start to change – the first permanent incisors and molars come through. This makes it easy to assess whether the jaw and teeth are developing harmoniously. An early examination helps us to identify any potential problems with the bite, jaw growth, or space at an early stage. This allows us to decide whether and when orthodontic treatment is advisable – and in some cases, simple measures can prevent the need for more extensive treatment later on. 

If parents or dentists notice abnormalities earlier – for example, if the bite is “incorrect,” the teeth protrude significantly, chewing, breathing, or speaking is impaired, or thumb sucking persists for a long time – an earlier appointment may also be advisable.

The duration of orthodontic treatment always depends on the individual initial situation, the type of malocclusion, and the patient's cooperation. On average, it lasts between 1.5 and 3 years, divided into different treatment phases:

• Pre-treatment during tooth replacement:
  If treatment begins during tooth replacement, removable appliances can often be used. This phase usually lasts around 9 to 12 months and serves to guide jaw growth, correct unfavorable developments at an early stage, and create optimal conditions for the permanent teeth.
  
  
• Main treatment after tooth replacement is complete:
  Once all permanent teeth are in place, the multiband phase with fixed braces usually follows. This lasts around 18 months on average, but may be shorter or longer depending on the misalignment and individual cooperation.
  
  
• Stabilization or retention phase:
  After active treatment, a passive retention phase follows to secure the achieved result. For this purpose, removable retention devices are worn—usually for about a year, initially regularly at night.

We discuss the exact duration of treatment and the optimal procedure individually after diagnosis.

The insertion of the braces themselves does not usually hurt – you will just feel that there is something new in your mouth. 

In the first few days, you may feel a slight pulling or pressure as your teeth adjust to their new position. These sensations are normal and a sign that the treatment is working. 

If necessary, painkillers, soft foods, or special waxes can help to prevent small pressure points.

Lingual braces (brackets on the inside of the teeth, e.g., WIN) are a completely invisible solution for teeth correction. In addition, aligner trays (e.g., from Angle Align or Invisalign) and ceramic brackets offer aesthetic options – ceramic brackets are only slightly visible from the outside.

Whether the costs of treatment are covered depends on medical necessity.

Under statutory health insurance, only combined orthodontic and orthognathic treatments are usually covered, i.e., cases with functional problems or severe malocclusions. This is one of our areas of expertise.

For less severe malocclusions, we offer conservative orthodontic solutions on a self-pay basis. This means that even moderate tooth and jaw misalignments can be successfully corrected—tailored to your individual situation.

With fixed braces, oral hygiene is particularly important. We show young people suitable aids such as interdental brushes and give tips for daily cleaning.