Crowded teeth, gaps and bite problems don’t only affect how your smile looks; they can affect your oral health too. Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that moves the teeth and jaws into a better position.
At our clinic in Bağcılar, we assess each patient’s teeth and needs individually and build a personal orthodontic plan. Options range from traditional braces to tooth-coloured ceramic braces and clear aligners.
The goal isn’t just straight teeth. It’s a healthy bite, easier cleaning and a smile you can keep for the long term.
Wondering whether orthodontics is only cosmetic or also about health? Read our article Is orthodontic treatment really necessary?
Orthodontics looks at how the teeth sit in the jaws and how the upper and lower jaws meet, and aims to correct any irregularities.
Teeth that aren't straight, jaws that don't meet properly, or gaps between the teeth may all call for orthodontic treatment.
Orthodontic treatment mainly aims to:
The type and severity of orthodontic problems vary from person to person. That's why treatment should begin with an oral examination, the necessary imaging and an orthodontic assessment.
Not every alignment problem is the same. Sometimes moving the teeth is enough; in other cases the relationship between the jaws has to be part of the plan too.
When there isn't enough room in the jaw, teeth can overlap or turn.
Wider-than-normal gaps can matter for both appearance and function.
A mismatch between the upper and lower jaws can cause bite problems and change your facial profile.
The upper front teeth cover the lower front teeth more than they should.
Some upper and lower teeth don't touch when the mouth is closed.
Upper and lower teeth meet in the wrong relationship to each other.
Assessing these problems early makes it easier to find the right treatment.
Clear aligners
Removable, transparent trays. You take them out to eat, drink and brush; progress is followed at regular check-ups.
Metal braces
Widely used for cases of all levels of difficulty, and a common choice for children and teenagers.
Ceramic braces
Tooth-coloured ceramic brackets combine the effectiveness of metal braces with a more discreet look.
Functional appliances
Removable or fixed appliances that guide jaw growth in growing children.
Retainers
Worn at night after treatment to hold the teeth in their new position.
Orthodontic problems can look purely cosmetic, but crooked teeth and a poor bite can strain the jaw joint and contribute to gum problems.
Straight teeth are easier to clean, so orthodontic treatment can make daily care simpler and help lower the risk of decay and gum disease.
When to treat, and how, is decided after an oral examination and the necessary imaging.
One of the most common questions is how clear aligners compare with traditional braces. Both aim to move the teeth into a better position, but they differ in how you wear them, how visible they are and which cases they suit.
It’s one of the questions we hear most. A quick comparison:
| Feature | Clear aligners | Metal / ceramic braces |
|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Barely visible | Visible (less so with ceramic) |
| Removable? | ✓ Out for eating and brushing | ✗ Fixed, can’t be removed |
| Complex cases | Moderately effective | ✓ Suitable for most cases |
| Discipline needed | Worn 20–22 hours a day | Works without daily effort |
| Easy to keep clean | ✓ Very easy | Needs careful brushing |
| For children / teens | Depends on discipline | ✓ Usually a better fit |
There’s no single answer. Whether your case is mild, moderate or complex, the method is decided after a thorough examination. Aligners aren’t right for every case; sometimes fixed braces give more control.
The decision should consider the current state of your teeth and jaws, not just how you’d like it to look.
Keeping an eye on how a child's teeth and jaws develop helps spot orthodontic problems early.
A first orthodontic check is generally recommended around age 7. At this stage baby teeth and adult teeth are both present, which tells us a lot about jaw growth and how the teeth are coming through.
An early check doesn't mean every child starts treatment straight away. For some, regular monitoring is enough; for others, early treatment can make use of the growth period.
Signs a child may need an orthodontic check:
For more on your child's overall dental health, see our children's dentistry page.
Orthodontics isn't just for children and teenagers. Adults with healthy teeth and gums can have treatment too.
Crowding, gaps and bite problems can be corrected in adulthood. Age alone isn't a barrier; what matters is whether your oral health and teeth are suitable.
For adults, besides metal braces, ceramic braces and, where suitable, clear aligners can be considered.
The plan takes into account gum health, bone support, existing fillings and anything else going on in your mouth. Where appearance is the main concern, orthodontics can also be part of a smile design plan.
1. First consultation and records
We assess your teeth with a digital scan and X-rays, then explain the options and expected treatment time in detail.
2. Your treatment plan
We prepare the plan, walk you through the stages and estimated timeline, and begin once you agree.
3. Fitting the appliance
Depending on the method, we bond the brackets or hand you your first aligners, along with instructions.
4. Regular check-ups
Check-ups every 4–8 weeks or so keep treatment on track. Wires are changed or new aligners provided as needed.
5. Retention
Once active treatment ends, a retainer holds the result in place. This stage matters as much as the treatment itself.
Treatment time depends on how crowded the teeth are, the jaw relationship, the method chosen and how well you follow the plan.
Many cases are completed in roughly 12–24 months. Simpler cases can be quicker; complex ones may take longer.
With aligners, not wearing them for the recommended hours can throw the stages off track and make treatment longer.
A firm timeline can only be given after an orthodontic examination and assessment.
As the teeth move, you may feel mild pressure, tenderness or temporary discomfort.
It's most noticeable in the first days after braces go on or are adjusted, or when you switch to a new aligner. It usually eases as your mouth adapts.
Brackets can rub the inside of the cheeks or lips and cause temporary irritation. If pain is severe, lasts a long time or affects daily life, see your orthodontist.
Good oral hygiene during treatment is essential for healthy teeth and gums. Fixed braces in particular create spots where food and plaque can collect.
If you wear aligners, clean your teeth after taking them out and look after the aligners as your dentist advises.
Poor oral care can lead to decay around the brackets. Advanced decay may need root canal treatment, which is why regular check-ups matter throughout.