

Hello, this is Lucid Dental Clinic.
Are you wondering whether you should get orthodontic treatment or not?
Many people start orthodontic treatment for aesthetic reasons,
but it is also closely related to functional problems and oral health.
Today, at the Yeoksam-dong dental clinic, we will answer frequently asked
questions about orthodontic treatment and help clear up your concerns.
We understand how worried you may feel,
so please read comfortably :)

What is orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment is a treatment that improves unevenly aligned teeth or a poorly fitting bite.
Beyond simply making the teeth look better,
it also plays an important role in improving chewing function and maintaining the health
of the teeth and gums.
In particular, malocclusion can cause temporomandibular joint pain, frequent cavities,
and gum disease,
and it can also affect pronunciation and facial asymmetry.
So it is not simply a matter of "looking bad,"
but may be an important choice for a healthier mouth.
Pain level and causes during orthodontic treatment
Pain during orthodontic treatment is felt differently from person to person.
In general, after the braces are first attached or when the wire is adjusted over time,
there may be pressure and pain for about 2–3 days.
The cause of the pain is a natural reaction that occurs during the process of tooth movement.
The pain gradually decreases as you adapt,
and with painkillers, it can be managed well enough not to interfere with daily life.
At the Yeoksam-dong dental clinic, we reduce discomfort by gently adjusting the force
according to each patient’s sensitivity to pain.
In what cases is orthodontic treatment necessary?
▪ When teeth are crowded or there are protruding teeth
▪ When the alignment of the teeth is noticeably irregular when smiling
▪ When the jaw hurts or chewing food is uncomfortable
▪ When oral hygiene is difficult to maintain, causing frequent cavities or gum disease
If you have not only visible concerns but also functional discomfort like this,
it is a good idea to consider orthodontic treatment.
Orthodontic treatment FAQs answered for you!
Q. What is the right time for orthodontic treatment?
A. For children in their growth period, it is better to start earlier because jaw growth can also be guided. However, adults can also receive orthodontic treatment at any time as long as their teeth and gums are healthy.
Q. Is wearing a retainer after treatment absolutely necessary?
A. Yes, a retainer is essential. After orthodontic treatment, teeth have a tendency to move back to their original position, so you need to wear a retainer for a certain period to keep them stable. If you do not wear the retainer properly, the effects of treatment may be lost.
Q. Is tooth extraction always necessary during orthodontic treatment?
A. It depends on the case. If there is not enough space for the teeth to be aligned evenly, extraction may be necessary. However, non-extraction orthodontic treatment is also commonly performed these days, so it is best to decide after diagnosis.
Q. What should I be careful about with food during treatment?
A. It is best to avoid hard or sticky foods because they can cause the appliance to come off. In addition, thorough brushing after meals is necessary, and regular visits for management are important.
Q. Does orthodontic treatment change the shape of the face?
A. Orthodontic treatment can change the position of the jaw or alter the lip line. It may also help improve a recessed chin or protruding mouth.
Q. What is the difference between clear aligners and regular braces?
A. Clear aligners are appliances that are not easily visible and can be removed and reinserted. They have advantages in terms of aesthetics and hygiene management, but for complex cases, regular bracket braces may be more effective.
How should you care for your teeth after orthodontic treatment?
▪ Wearing a retainer is essential
▪ Avoid hard or irritating foods, and recommend soft meals
▪ Strengthen hygiene management through regular checkups and scaling
▪ If the appliance comes off, visit the clinic right away for reattachment
Orthodontic treatment is an investment in long-term
oral health and confidence rather than short-term discomfort.
You may hesitate at first, but after treatment is complete,
the changed alignment of your teeth and your facial expression can clearly bring positive
changes to your life.
At the Yeoksam-dong dental clinic, we suggest a variety of orthodontic options
based on each person’s condition and lifestyle.

Lucid Dental Clinic
3rd–4th Floors, Coway Building, 606 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul