Orthodontics

If you are concerned about the position of your teeth, find some areas difficult to clean or have questions about your bite, an assessment can help clarify what is happening and whether treatment is needed.

At Clinimed, we care for children, teenagers and adults. We begin by understanding each person’s needs and explaining the options before a decision is made.

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the area of dentistry that assesses and treats problems with the position of the teeth and the way the upper and lower teeth fit together.

Overlapping teeth, gaps between teeth or problems with your bite may warrant an assessment. In some cases, they can make cleaning or chewing more difficult. Treatment aims to improve alignment and the way the teeth fit together, with goals defined for each individual case.

Not every difference in alignment requires treatment. In children and teenagers, their stage of development is also important when deciding when and how to intervene.

Fixed metal braces and clear aligners: what are the options?

At Clinimed, treatment mainly involves fixed metal braces and clear aligners. Both move teeth gradually, but they have different features and requirements.

Fixed metal braces

These consist of small attachments fixed to the teeth, called brackets, connected by an archwire that guides tooth movement. They remain in place during treatment and are monitored at review appointments.

Cleaning requires care around the brackets and archwire. Some hard or sticky foods should be avoided or prepared differently to reduce the risk of damaging the braces.

Clear aligners

These are custom-made, removable devices worn in a sequence that gradually moves the teeth. Their transparency makes them discreet.

They can be removed for eating, brushing and flossing, making it easier to clean the teeth and avoiding the food restrictions associated with fixed braces. This flexibility requires you to follow the prescribed wear time and keep both your teeth and aligners clean.

How is the assessment carried out at Clinimed?

Prof. Dr Dinis Pereira carries out an assessment supported by appropriate investigations to analyse the structure and position of the teeth and develop a personalised treatment plan.

You receive an explanation of the alternatives, estimated treatment duration and what will be required of you. A cost estimate is provided after your case has been studied, allowing you to understand the proposed treatment before deciding.

Dr Dinis also provides treatments beyond orthodontic aligners, such as palatal expanders, when indicated. When a case involves maxillofacial surgery, he can also be involved in the patient’s care.

Continuing treatment

The duration of treatment and review appointments depend on your individual plan. Attending appointments, maintaining oral hygiene and using the devices as instructed are critical to the success of treatment.

What happens after the braces or aligners are removed?

Treatment is followed by a retention phase, which helps keep the teeth in their new position. This may involve fixed or removable retainers, depending on the clinical recommendation.

Take the first step towards a straighter, more confident smile. Book your orthodontic consultation and discover the treatment options best suited to your needs and everyday life.