Q&A About Orthodontic Treatment - Yonsei JW Dental Clinic

 

Hello! This is Yonsei JW Dental Clinic in Daechi-dong (Gangnam, Seoul, Korea)

Today, we’ll be going over some of the most frequently asked questions from those considering orthodontic treatment.

 

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

 

The duration of treatment varies depending on the scope of the orthodontic work. For partial orthodontics involving only the front teeth, treatment can often be completed in about 6 months. For full orthodontics, the duration depends on whether extractions are necessary.

 

Typically, non-extraction cases can be completed within 1 to 1.5 years, while extraction cases may take around 2 to 2.5 years. However, the exact treatment time depends on the complexity of the case and can only be accurately determined after a thorough diagnostic evaluation.

 

Is it possible to straighten teeth without extractions?

 

Teeth can appear crowded or misaligned when the total width of the teeth exceeds the available space in the dental arch. If the misalignment is not severe, it may be possible to align the teeth without extractions.

Methods such as interproximal reduction (IPR), arch expansion devices, or using mini-screws to move the molars backward can help create 8–9mm of space even in non-extraction cases.

 

However, if more than 10mm of space is needed, or if there is significant protrusion or severe flaring of the front teeth, non-extraction methods may not be sufficient. In such cases, extraction becomes necessary to achieve optimal results. It’s important to note that non-extraction treatment is not necessarily better, nor is extraction treatment inherently worse. The appropriate method depends on the individual case, and the best course of action should be determined after a detailed diagnosis.

 

Does orthodontic treatment hurt?

 

After first getting braces, you may experience some pain during the initial adjustment period when your teeth start to move. Additionally, during regular dental visits—when thicker wires are applied or rubber bands are added—you might feel discomfort for 2–3 days, and in some cases, up to a week.

 

This pain occurs because of the periodontal ligament, a tissue between the tooth root and the bone that acts as a cushion when chewing or when external force is applied. When undergoing orthodontic treatment, consistent pressure is applied in one direction, compressing the nerves and blood vessels in this ligament, which leads to pain.

 

Patients typically feel a dull ache, and their teeth may become sensitive to pressure, making it uncomfortable to chew hard foods. This discomfort usually lasts 3–4 days and subsides on its own. If the pain is severe, it can usually be relieved with over-the-counter painkillers such as Tylenol (acetaminophen).

 

How often do I need to visit the dentist during orthodontic treatment?

 

During orthodontic treatment, you’ll usually need to visit the dentist every 3 to 6 weeks. At these appointments, your orthodontist will change the wires to gradually move your teeth using their elastic force.

 

Delaying these regular checkups can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment and extend the total duration. Therefore, if you anticipate long-term commitments such as military service or studying abroad, it’s important to plan your treatment schedule accordingly. That said, since military leave has become more flexible in recent years, many enlisted individuals are now able to receive orthodontic treatment even during their service.

 

What happens if I get a cavity during orthodontic treatment?

 

Before starting orthodontics, a cavity check is usually done. If any cavities are found, they’re treated first before braces are applied. Throughout the course of treatment, regular checkups include cavity screening, so the chances of developing cavities are relatively low. However, if oral hygiene is not maintained properly during treatment and a cavity does develop, it can still be treated while wearing braces.

 

If the cavity is small, treatment can often be done without removing the braces. But if a root canal is needed or the cavity is located where the brackets are attached, the orthodontist may need to temporarily remove the brackets on that tooth. After the cavity is treated, the brackets are reattached and treatment continues.

 

During this time, it may be difficult to apply consistent orthodontic force, which can delay the overall treatment. For that reason, it’s highly recommended to maintain good oral hygiene throughout your orthodontic journey.

 

How should I manage oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment (with interdental brushes, floss, etc.)?

 

When braces are first placed, you’ll receive thorough instructions on how to maintain good oral hygiene during treatment. There are special V-shaped orthodontic toothbrushes designed to clean around the brackets and the surface of your teeth more effectively.

 

An end-tuft brush, which has a small, angled head (bent at 90 degrees), is great for reaching between the back molars and cleaning around the brackets. You can also use interdental brushes to clean between teeth and around wires. For flossing, Superfloss is especially helpful—it has a stiffened end that can be threaded between the teeth, allowing you to gently remove plaque from between the teeth even with braces on.

 

Are self-ligating braces faster than traditional ones?

 

According to various studies, there is no conclusive evidence that self-ligating brackets (which don’t require elastic or metal ties) reduce treatment time, cause less pain, or align teeth faster than traditional brackets. While self-ligating systems are often marketed as more efficient, research shows that the difference in friction between wire and bracket does not significantly impact overall treatment time.

 

However, one practical advantage is that they can make dental visits a bit quicker, as wires can be inserted and removed more easily. This can allow more time for the orthodontist to focus on other aspects of your care during the appointment.

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At Yonsei JW Dental Clinic, our orthodontic treatment includes all major costs—such as diagnostic fees and monthly adjustment fees—so there’s no need to worry about unexpected additional charges (retainer fees excluded). We also offer comprehensive care in one place, with general dentistry services available on-site for extractions, cavity treatments, and other procedures often needed during orthodontic treatment.

 

Plus, to ease the financial burden, we offer a flexible installment payment plan—making your orthodontic journey even more accessible and stress-free.

 

 

Dr. Jeongwon Youn, the chief orthodontist at Yonsei JW Dental Clinic, has specialized exclusively in orthodontics for over 16 years, gaining extensive experience in a wide range of complex cases.

Thanks to her expertise, we are able to effectively treat various orthodontic issues such as malocclusion, protruding teeth, and underbites.

 

At Yonsei JW Dental Clinic in Daechi-dong, we offer a free preliminary oral check-up to help assess your current condition without any obligation. During your consultation, you’ll also receive detailed explanations about the various orthodontic appliance options available.

 

Our clinic is fully equipped with the latest technology, including the iTero Lumina 3D intraoral scanner, growth plate analysis, and Morpheus facial scanner for before-and-after treatment simulations—allowing us to deliver highly precise and comprehensive orthodontic care.

 

 

If you're considering orthodontic treatment due to protruding teeth, crowding, malocclusion, or an underbite, you’ve probably already done quite a bit of research online.

 

Even so, seeing the different types of appliances in person and hearing detailed explanations can be incredibly helpful when making your final decision.

 

During your consultation at Yonsei JW Dental Clinic, you’ll have the opportunity to compare various options—such as Clarity, Clippy-C, and Invisalign—and receive a clear explanation of the pros and cons of each. We warmly encourage you to visit us or give us a call—no pressure, just helpful guidance.

 

Our clinic is conveniently located near Samseong Station, Hangnyeoul Station, Daechi Station, and Hanti Station, making it easy to visit from Samseong-dong, Daechi-dong, and Gaepo-dong.

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Yonsei JW Dental Clinic is located at 3F, 541 Dogok-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, Korea. (06189)

 

Located next to the BMW building

(across from Starbucks/Samsung Store)

Convenient and free parking available

For consultations and inquiries: 02-501-2879

You can schedule an appointment by instagram DM, whatsapp, or calling 02-501-2879

 
Please feel free to contact us for any questions! 
Thank you very much.