Orthodontics is the dental specialty that evaluates tooth alignment, bite relationships and jaw development during growth. Braces, clear aligners and other appliances may be used for crowding, spacing, crossbite, open bite and jaw discrepancies.

At Ozant Dental Clinic in Nicosia, planning considers tooth position, bite, jaw structure, gum health, age and individual needs. The method is selected according to the movements and biological conditions required, not appearance alone.

What Is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics diagnoses, prevents and treats dental and jaw irregularities. The objective includes cleanable tooth alignment, a balanced bite and long-term stability, as well as appearance.

When May Assessment Be Required?

Crowded teeth
Marked spaces between teeth
Crossbite
Open bite
Deep bite
A prominent or retrusive upper or lower jaw
Impacted or unerupted teeth
A narrow upper jaw
Tooth movement after previous treatment

When Should a Child Have the First Orthodontic Check?

An assessment is recommended when a problem is noticed and no later than around seven years of age. Mixed primary and permanent teeth allow jaw growth, crossbite and space to be reviewed. Early assessment does not mean immediate treatment for every child.

What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment?

During growth, selected crossbites, jaw discrepancies, lack of space or habits may benefit from early intervention. The purpose is to start necessary care at the appropriate time and monitor development. Not every problem is treated early.

Can Adults Have Orthodontic Treatment?

Adults with suitable dental and periodontal health can be treated. Existing fillings, crowns, missing teeth, implants and gum condition are included in planning. Tissue health is usually more important than age.

Orthodontic Examination and Records

Records may include intraoral and facial photographs, digital scans or impressions, panoramic and cephalometric images. They help identify the source of the problem and plan tooth and jaw relationships.

Which Treatment Methods Are Used?

Fixed metal or aesthetic braces
Clear aligners
Removable appliances
Palatal expanders
Functional appliances during growth
Lingual orthodontics in selected cases
Retainers

Braces

Brackets are attached to teeth and controlled forces are applied through orthodontic wires. Systems differ in appearance and handling, but success depends on diagnosis, regular reviews and oral hygiene.

Further information is available on the Braces Treatment page.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are removable appliances made to move teeth in stages. They are removed for meals and oral hygiene. Recommended wear is essential. Not every orthodontic movement is treated with the same predictability using aligners.

Further information is available on the Clear Aligners page.

Palatal Expansion

Expansion appliances may be considered for a narrow upper jaw, particularly during growth. The aim can be to correct crossbite and create space. Timing and appliance design depend on jaw development.

Further information is available on the Palatal Expander page.

Braces or Clear Aligners?

Both methods move teeth, but compliance, movement type, bite and goals differ. Removability can be an advantage of aligners but requires consistent wear. Some movements may be more predictable with braces.

How Long Does Treatment Take?

Duration depends on problem complexity, required movement, growth, method, biological response and cooperation. An exact duration cannot be determined without assessment.

Oral Hygiene During Treatment

Plaque can accumulate around fixed appliances. Teeth and brackets should be cleaned carefully with appropriate interdental tools. Aligners are removable, but both the teeth and trays must remain clean.

Why Is Gum Health Important?

Active decay and gum disease should be controlled before treatment. Periodontal health is especially important for safe tooth movement in adults.

When May Orthognathic Surgery Be Required?

After growth is complete, marked skeletal jaw discrepancies may not be corrected by tooth movement alone. Orthodontics and jaw surgery can be coordinated in selected cases.

Why Is Retention Important?

Fixed or removable retainers help maintain tooth positions after active treatment. Teeth can move throughout life, so adherence to the retention plan is important.

Orthodontic Planning at Ozant Dental Clinic

Children, teenagers and adults are assessed according to their distinct needs. Treatment selection considers tooth position, jaw relationships, periodontal health, aesthetic expectations and daily life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is orthodontic treatment only for children?

No. Adults can be treated when dental and gum health are suitable.

When should the first check take place?

When a problem is noticed and no later than around age seven.

Are aligners suitable for every case?

No. Suitability depends on the required movements, bite and compliance.

Is orthodontic treatment painful?

Temporary pressure or tenderness can occur initially or after adjustments. Severe or persistent symptoms should be assessed.

Can teeth move after treatment?

Yes. Retainers help reduce unwanted movement.

Appointment and Assessment

To assess crowding, bite problems, jaw development, braces or clear-aligner options, you can submit an appointment request.

Medical Information

This content has been prepared for general information. It does not replace a clinical examination, diagnosis or an individual treatment plan. The appropriate approach is determined after considering oral health, general health, clinical findings and individual needs. No particular treatment result, lifespan or suitability for every patient is guaranteed.

Last updated: 3 August 2026