Orthodontic Treatment in Turkey:
Proceure, Metal Braces, Clear Aligners Cost

Although most people think of orthodontic treatments as 'braces', there are many different options available today, such as Invisalign clear aligners. In children, orthodontic treatment can more easily correct the structure of the jaw during the growing years, and in adults, successful results can be achieved at any age.

So what is orthodontic treatment, what dental problems is it an option for, and what is its scope? How is orthodontic treatment carried out in Turkey? Here are the answers to your questions...

What is orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment is an important dental treatment that aims to properly align the teeth and bring the jaw structure into the ideal position. This specialised treatment is very important for oral health and the aesthetics of the smile.

What is the purpose of orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment not only provides a more aesthetically pleasing smile but also helps maintain oral and dental health. Correcting crowded teeth, eliminating incompatibilities in the jawbone, and ensuring proper bite function are some of the main goals of treatment.

In which cases is orthodontic treatment needed?

Orthodontic treatment may be needed in one or more of the following situations:

Correction of poor bite (malocclusion and occlusion) of the teeth:

Non-functional and often disabling malocclusions (bad bites) of the teeth. Although malocclusion is not a disease, orthodontics aims at the diagnosis, prevention, early intervention, and correction of malocclusions. For many patients, the appearance of their teeth and facial aesthetics is a more important reason for seeking orthodontic care than functional concerns.

The need to restore occlusion (closure of the teeth) or aesthetic or health problems with an acceptable treatment outcome. Orthodontic treatment aims to achieve these goals by repositioning the teeth in the dental arch and influencing skeletal and muscular changes in the oral and maxillofacial complex.

Bite problems in teeth can be as follows:

• Open bite: The upper and lower teeth do not touch each other (in the front or side area).
• Deep bite: The upper teeth cover the lower teeth too much.
• Crossbite: The lower teeth overlap the upper teeth.
• Covered bite: The upper teeth cover the lower teeth more than normal.

Correction of teeth crowding and position problems:

Conditions such as crowding, gaps, unerupted teeth, or teeth that erupted in the wrong position can cause both aesthetic and functional problems. Teeth crowding and position problems can be as follows:

• Impaction: Overlapping of teeth due to narrow jawbone
• Spaced teeth: Too much space between the teeth
• Rotated or incorrectly positioned teeth: Teeth protrude differently from their normal alignment.

Correction of skeletal problems and jaw incompatibilities:

• Dental and jaw deformations due to oral habits. Oral habits with sufficient frequency, continuity, and intensity (such as finger sucking) may cause unfavourable changes to tooth and jaw structures and may need to be corrected with orthodontic treatment.
• Incompatibility between jaw and tooth size (tooth size-arch length discrepancy). This condition prevents the teeth from aligning properly and may need to be solved with orthodontic treatment.
• Severe skeletal jaw relationship disorders may require orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic treatment may be needed to help prevent or treat temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems.
• Orthodontic treatment may also be needed in cases where the lower jaw is forward or backward, the upper jaw is narrow or excessively forward, or there is asymmetrical jaw structure (one side of the face is more prominent).

The need for early intervention for problems in the developing dentition (interceptive orthodontic treatment)

Orthodontic treatment at an early age can help prevent or reduce the severity of more complex problems. For example, posterior crossbites, mild to moderate Class III malocclusions, some Class II malocclusions, and open bites may benefit from early treatment approaches.

Solving problems caused by tooth loss or trauma:

If an ankylosed deciduous molar (fusion of the root of the tooth with the surrounding bone) prevents the eruption or movement of neighbouring teeth, it may need to be extracted, and a space maintainer may be applied.

Early loss of deciduous teeth may cause permanent teeth to erupt in the wrong place. The presence of congenitally missing or excess teeth may cause occlusion and aesthetic problems, and orthodontic treatment may be required.

Elimination of some functional problems:

Functional problems in the teeth that can be eliminated with orthodontic treatment can be as follows:

• Chewing difficulty
• Speech disorders (difficulty in saying some letters)
• Mouth-breathing habit
• Tongue pressing on teeth during swallowing.

Satisfying aesthetic needs:

In children and adolescents, dental problems that affect factors such as self-perception, social acceptance, and school environment, especially dental problems affecting aesthetics, can negatively affect social and emotional well-being in young patients. In addition, dental problems affecting the appearance in adults can affect the morale of individuals. Orthodontic treatment can also be utilised to address such aesthetic concerns.

What are the orthodontic treatment methods?

Orthodontic treatment methods vary according to the age of the patient, the period of dentition, and the problems that need to be corrected. The following methods can be used for orthodontic treatment:

Interceptive orthodontic treatment:

Interceptive orthodontics is a treatment method applied in the early period (usually between the ages of 6 and 10) to ensure the proper eruption of permanent teeth in children and to prevent serious orthodontic problems that may occur in the future.

This treatment directs jaw development by widening the narrow jaw, prevents loss of space due to early loss of deciduous teeth, prevents permanent teeth from growing crooked, corrects bad habits such as finger sucking and tongue pushing, and prevents more complex treatments that will be required in the future.

For interceptive orthodontic treatment, mobile appliances (devices that the child can put on and take off), fixed appliances (mini expanders or wires attached to the teeth), and habit breakers (special appliances that prevent behaviours such as tongue pushing and finger sucking) are used and applied in the following cases:

• Narrow upper jaw (v-insufficiency): A palatal expander is fitted.
• Early loss of deciduous teeth: A space maintainer is used.
• Crossbite in the anterior teeth: Corrected with preventive appliances.
• Finger-sucking/lip-sucking habit: Habit-breaking appliances are used.
• The lower jaw is excessively behind or in front. It is intervened with a jawguard (headgear/functional appliances).

Fixed orthodontic treatment (braces)

Fixed orthodontic treatment is a radical dental treatment method that corrects irregularities in the teeth and incompatibilities in the jaw structure. In this treatment, brackets specially placed on the teeth and wires attached to them are used.

Working principle:

During the treatment process, the dentist meticulously places brackets on each tooth. The wires that pass through these brackets apply controlled pressure to the teeth, gradually bringing them into the desired position. In some cases, rubber bands (elastics) or supportive appliances may be used to correct the jaw relationship.

During the treatment, the tension of these wires is adjusted at regular intervals, thereby guiding the movement of the teeth.

This method is especially preferred in cases of severe crowding and serious occlusion problems. This treatment, which can be applied to both children and adults, is completed in different durations depending on the person's age and dental structure. The straightened teeth achieved at the end of the treatment significantly improve both the aesthetic appearance and chewing functions.

Procedures methods:

Metal Brackets:

Metal brackets are one of the most commonly used and effective methods in fixed orthodontic treatments. It is especially preferred in cases of severe crowding.

In this treatment method, brackets are bonded to the teeth, and wires are attached to them, allowing the teeth to be moved in a controlled manner to their ideal positions.

One of the most important aspects to pay attention to during the treatment process is oral hygiene. Food debris and plaque that accumulate around the brackets can lead to tooth decay and gum problems.

Ceramic (porcelain) brackets:

Ceramic brackets, with their tooth-coloured and near-transparent appearance, are preferred by adult patients and young people with visual concerns; these brackets offer a less noticeable appearance compared to metal brackets.

Ceramic brackets made from porcelain material are fixed to the tooth surface with special adhesives. They work on the same treatment principle as metal brackets, facilitating tooth movement.

Lingual brackets:

Lingual brackets are a special orthodontic treatment method applied to the backside of the teeth, not the visible surface. Thanks to this technique, no brackets or wires are visible from the outside during the treatment period. It is an ideal solution, especially for individuals with high visual concerns.

Lingual treatment is as effective as traditional methods in correcting teeth. It can be used to solve many orthodontic problems, from crowding to occlusion issues. The brackets and wires used in this method are entirely customised for each individual.

Self-ligating brackets:

The most important feature of these brackets is that they have a special cap system that allows the wires to be secured without the need for rubber connection elements.

In this system, the small caps on the brackets are closed after the wire is placed, securing the wire in place. Unlike the rubber bands used in traditional brackets, these clips hold the wires with a continuous and controlled force. This allows for tooth movements to occur more comfortably and regularly.

The most notable advantage of self-ligating brackets is that they reduce friction, allowing the teeth to move more easily.

Removable orthodontic treatment

Removable orthodontic treatment is a method of teeth correction using appliances that the patient can put on and take off voluntarily. The appliances used in the treatment usually consist of an acrylic plate and metal wires placed on this plate. Thanks to this system, the desired movements are provided by applying controlled forces to the teeth. During the treatment process, the appliances should be worn for at least 14-16 hours a day. Removable appliances can be removed while eating and brushing teeth.

Procedures areas:

Removable orthodontic treatment is generally preferred in the following cases:

• When there is a need for jaw expansion in children
• When simple tooth movements are required
• To ensure that the teeth remain in place after orthodontic treatment

Procedures methods:

Clear aligners (Invisalign, etc.):

Clear aligner treatment is a modern orthodontic method used to correct crowding of the teeth. The main feature of transparent aligners is that they are almost invisible. In this treatment, transparent aligners are used in a series produced specifically for the patient's tooth structure. Each aligner applies a controlled force to the teeth, gradually moving them into their ideal position. During the treatment, they do not cause any discomfort in daily activities such as speaking and smiling.

New sets of aligners are given at certain intervals during the treatment process. Generally, the treatment is progressed by changing the aligners every two weeks. The aligners can be removed during eating and teeth cleaning. However, they should be worn for at least 20–22 hours per day to be effective.

Functional appliances used in children:

Functional appliances used in children are special orthodontic appliances designed to correct jaw problems during growth and development. These appliances aim to prevent serious orthodontic problems that may occur in the future by guiding the jaw structures of children who are still growing. It is especially preferred in cases where the lower or upper jaw is behind/in front and is generally used in children aged 8-14 years.

Palatal expanders (palatal expansion appliances):

These are special orthodontic appliances used when the upper jaw is narrow. These appliances are especially applied to growing children (usually between 7 and 14 years of age) and create enough space for the teeth by expanding the upper jawbone.

Extraoral appliances (headgear)

Extraoral appliances (headgear) are special orthodontic appliances used to correct the position of the jaw and teeth. These appliances are usually applied during the growth period in children and adolescents and are mainly aimed at controlling the overgrowth of the upper jaw or correcting the position of the lower jaw.

Orthognathic Surgery (Surgical Orthodontics)

Orthognathic surgery is a combined orthodontic and surgical treatment method applied to correct severe jaw and facial deformities. It is a process in which orthodontic treatment is combined with surgical intervention. It provides both aesthetic and functional improvement. It is generally applied to individuals who have completed their growth period (over 18 years old), and the main purpose is to reposition the jawbones. This method is preferred for correcting the following advanced common disorders where adjustments made with braces are insufficient.

This method is preferred for correcting the following advanced common disorders where braces are insufficient: prominent or retruded mandible.

• Prominent forward or backward positioning of the lower jaw
• Severe open bite
• Asymmetric jaw structure
• Midface deficiencies
• Functional issues such as sleep apnoea

Retention treatment (retainer):

After orthodontic treatment, teeth tend to naturally return to their original positions. To prevent this situation and maintain the teeth in their ideal positions, a retention treatment is performed. After the active orthodontic treatment is completed, the use of retainers, which are appliances used to maintain the new positions of the teeth, ensures that the treatment results are permanent. Retainers can be removable or fixed.

Average time in orthodontic treatments:

The duration of treatment depends on many factors, such as the orthodontic treatment method to be applied, the age of the patient, the general health status of the patient, oral hygiene, regular attendance at appointments, and compliance with the instructions for use of the appliance. In addition, the duration may be longer in adults due to bone structure. It will be enough to look at the table we have prepared for you to have an idea about the average times, taking into account the treatment method to be applied and the age of the patient.

Benefits and advantages of orthodontic treatment:

Orthodontic treatment not only provides an aesthetic smile but also improves overall quality of life by improving oral and dental health. Orthodontic treatment is an important treatment method not only for ‘aligned teeth’ but also for achieving a healthy and permanent oral structure. Treatment options are determined individually, and successful results are obtained at any age. Common benefits and advantages of orthodontic treatment:

Aesthetics and Self-confidence:

• A more beautiful smile with properly aligned teeth
• Improvement of facial symmetry and appearance
• Gain self-confidence in social life

Oral and dental health:

Reduces tooth decay: Correction of crowded teeth facilitates cleaning and reduces plaque accumulation.

Reduces the risk of gum diseases: properly positioned teeth protect gum health.

Prevents abrasion and trauma: Tooth wear caused by improper bite is prevented.

Jaw and tooth function:

Chewing efficiency: A correct bite allows for better grinding of food.

• Correction of speech disorders: Problems such as lisp due to tooth and jaw structure are reduced.
• Prevention of jaw joint disorders: Stress bite and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) problems are minimised.
• Permanent results: The new position of the teeth is maintained with the use of retainers after treatment.
• Prevention of early loss: Properly aligned teeth reduce the risk of early tooth loss.

Economic:

• Long-term cost savings by preventing future dental and jaw problems.
• Maintaining the comfort of daily life with options such as transparent aligners or lingual brackets.

Things to consider during orthodontic treatment:

Things to consider during orthodontic treatment are as follows:

• Teeth should be carefully brushed at least twice a day; the area around the brackets should be cleaned with special cleaners.
• The use of dental floss and an interdental brush should not be neglected.
• Auxiliary cleaning products such as mouthwash can facilitate the treatment process.
• Hard and sticky foods should be avoided as much as possible.
• Food should be consumed in small pieces.
• Healthier alternatives should be preferred instead of acidic drinks.
• The instructions given by the orthodontist should be followed exactly.
• Appointments should not be disrupted. Checks should be done regularly.
• Appliances should be used for the specified periods.
• The methods recommended by the orthodontist should be applied for the pain that can be seen in the first days.
• Orthodontic wax can be used for irritations caused by the brackets.
• In case of any problems, the orthodontist should be consulted immediately.
• Reinforcement treatment should not be neglected.
• If transparent aligners (Invisalign) are used, they should be worn for 20-22 hours a day and removed only for eating and brushing.
• If removable appliances are used, they should be used for the time recommended by your doctor (usually at night + 4-6 hours during the day).
• If using headgear, the specified hours (12-14 hours/day) must be observed.
• Retainers should be used regularly for the specified period.
• Care should be taken to maintain the new position of the teeth.

Orthodontic treatment in Turkey:

Clinics and hospitals:

Turkey is a country that offers significant advantages in orthodontic treatment for both local patients and foreigners. There are many hospitals and clinics in Turkey that provide orthodontic treatment. The latest technologies, such as 3D scanning, digital planning, and clear aligner treatments, are widely used and have high standards in terms of sterilisation and patient comfort.

Reliability:

Many orthodontists in Turkey are members of the European Orthodontic Society (EOS) and the World Federation of Orthodontics (WFO), receive training at international standards, and apply modern techniques.

Price:

Orthodontic treatment prices in Turkey are 50-70% more favourable than in Europe and the USA. This is entirely due to the exchange rate difference. For example:

Transparent aligners (Invisalign): 1,400-3,700 EUR

Metal brackets: 750–2,300 EUR

Ceramic brackets: 1,100-3,250 EUR

Lingual bracket: 2.800 - 5.600 EUR

You can contact Safe Medical Travel to find answers to your questions about current prices and treatment options.

Combining tourism with treatment (health tourism):

Cities like Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir offer patients the opportunity to combine their treatment with a vacation, thanks to their tourist appeal. Many clinics enhance patient comfort by providing transfer services, accommodation, and interpreter assistance.

If you wish to enjoy a holiday in Turkey during your orthodontic treatment, you can contact Safe Medical Travel to learn about the services we offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best orthodontic treatment method?

This depends entirely on your tooth structure and your needs. Your orthodontist will create a special plan for you.

At what age can orthodontic treatment be performed?

For children:

The first orthodontic examination is recommended around 7-8 years of age. If there is jaw stenosis or bad habits (such as finger sucking) that require early intervention, treatment can begin at this age.

For adults:

It can be applied at any age. The duration may be longer due to bone structure.

Is orthodontic treatment painful?

Mild pain or tingling is normal for the first 3-5 days (painkillers can be taken). The adaptation period is 1-2 weeks, then the feeling of discomfort decreases.

Who may not be suitable for orthodontic treatment?

Although orthodontic treatment is suitable for many people, in some cases additional precautions or alternative methods may need to be considered before starting treatment. People who may not be suitable for orthodontic treatment:

• Those with poor oral hygiene Those with severe gum disease (periodontitis)
• Those with uncontrolled diabetes or bone disease
• Women in the first 3 months of pregnancy (hormonal changes can make the gums sensitive, and x-rays are not recommended).
• Those with severe jawbone resorption (supportive treatments such as bone grafting or implants may be required first).
• Patients undergoing chemotherapy (because their immune system is weak).
• Those with heart valve problems (antibiotic prophylaxis may be required).