Orthodontics, Mouthpiece Orthodontics, Pediatric Orthodontics

Whether you want to straighten your teeth or improve your bite, concerns about your smile can affect not only your self-confidence but also your overall health. At Shiba Park / Mita SACHI Dental Clinic, an orthodontic specialist provides consultations and treatment once a month. We propose the best treatment plan tailored to your lifestyle and preferences from a wide range of orthodontic methods.

Choosing an Orthodontic Method to Suit Your Lifestyle

There are various methods of orthodontic treatment, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. At our clinic, we listen carefully to your requests and work with you to select the most suitable method. Please feel free to share any preferences you may have, such as “I want something discreet,” “I want to keep costs down,” or “I want to shorten the treatment period.”

Labial Orthodontics (Wire Orthodontics)

A time-tested orthodontic treatment suitable for a wide range of cases

Wire braces (labial braces) are a treatment method where devices called “brackets” are attached to the surface of the teeth, and wires are passed through them to apply pressure, guiding the teeth to their ideal positions. As it is the most established method with a long history of results, it is characterized by its broad range of applications.

Advantages and Features

• Capable of handling difficult cases: This method excels at controlling the force used to move teeth. Consequently, treatment is possible even in cases requiring tooth extraction or severe crowding (overlapping teeth).
• No self-management required: Since the appliances are fixed, there is no need to manage wearing time as with clear aligner therapy. As a result, treatment tends to proceed according to plan.
• Discreet options available: For those who prefer that their braces not be noticeable, we offer white ceramic or plastic brackets that blend in with the color of your teeth. Additionally, white wires can also be selected.

Clear Aligner Treatment

A new, transparent, and discreet orthodontic option

Clear aligner treatment uses transparent, mouthpiece-style devices created based on computer simulations after digitizing the patient’s dentition. By replacing these devices in stages, the teeth are moved little by little.

Advantages and Features

• Inconspicuous: Because they are made of thin, transparent plastic, they are hardly noticed by others even when worn. Therefore, they are recommended for those in customer-facing roles or those who frequently appear in public.
• Removable: They can be removed during meals and tooth brushing. Consequently, there are no dietary restrictions, and the mouth can be kept clean, which also reduces the risk of cavities and periodontal disease.
• Digital simulation: You can check the movement of your teeth from the start to the completion of treatment in advance using 3D images. In other words, you can start treatment after visualizing how your teeth will move.

Lingual Orthodontics (Tongue-side Orthodontics, Back-side Orthodontics)

Aligning teeth without being noticed by others

Lingual orthodontics is a treatment method where brackets and wires are attached to the back (tongue side) of the teeth. Since the appliances are not visible even when you open your mouth, it is ideal for those who do not want others to know they are undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Advantages and Features

• Ultimate aesthetics: Because the appliances are on the back of the teeth, they are almost never noticed in daily life. For example, those with important upcoming events like weddings can feel at ease.
• The choice of half-lingual: “Half-lingual orthodontics,” where the upper teeth are treated from the back (invisible) and the lower teeth from the front (using discreet appliances), is also possible. In this way, you can choose a flexible plan that fits your budget and requirements.

*In the initial stages of wearing them, there may be a sense of discomfort for the tongue or difficulty with pronunciation. However, in most cases, you will get used to it within a few weeks.

MTM (Partial Orthodontics)

Pinpoint alignment for specific areas of concern

MTM (Minor Tooth Movement) refers to “partial orthodontics” that moves only a few teeth rather than changing the bite of the entire mouth.

Recommended for:

• Those who want to close a slight gap (diastema) in their front teeth
• Those who want to fix only one tilted tooth
• Fixing only the areas of concern in a short period and at a lower cost
• As a pre-treatment for prosthetic work: When performing bridge or implant treatments, we correct the tilt of the teeth that will serve as the foundation. This enables high-precision treatment that lasts longer.

*Depending on the state of the bite and alignment, partial orthodontics may not be applicable. Please feel free to consult us first.

Orthodontic Treatment Flow

Orthodontic treatment is a long-term process. Therefore, our clinic provides thorough explanations and examinations so that patients can continue their treatment with peace of mind. The flow of treatment is introduced below.

1. Initial Consultation (Examination & Counseling)
   First, we will examine your mouth to check for cavities and determine if orthodontic treatment is possible. Consultations with our orthodontist are free of charge, so please feel free to ask any questions regarding costs or methods.
2. Detailed Examination
   Next, we perform X-rays (panoramic and cephalometric), CT scans, and digital impressions using an intraoral scanner. We also take photographs of your face and mouth to gather the necessary data for a diagnosis.
3. Diagnosis and Treatment Planning
   Based on the examination results, we will explain the optimal treatment method, duration, and detailed costs. We will then consult with you to finalize a plan that meets your satisfaction.
4. Fitting of Appliances and Start of Treatment
   Once the plan is finalized, the orthodontic appliances are fitted and treatment begins. This marks the start of the active treatment period (approximately 2 to 3 years).
5. Regular Visits and Adjustments (Approximately Once a Month)
   You will visit the clinic about once a month for wire adjustments or to check the fit of your aligners. We will also perform professional dental cleaning during these visits.
6. Retention Period (Retainers)
   After your teeth are properly aligned, you will wear a “retention appliance (retainer)” to prevent them from shifting back. We will continue to monitor your progress periodically during this period.

*For those who are planning to transfer or move

If you anticipate any changes to your schedule (transfer, study abroad, moving, etc.) during the treatment period, please let us know as soon as possible. We will adjust the treatment plan as much as possible.

Pediatric Orthodontics (Phase I Treatment) | For Your Child’s Healthy Growth

“Foundation Building” Starting from Around 6 to 12 Years Old

Phase I treatment in pediatric orthodontics refers to treatment performed during the period when baby teeth and permanent teeth are mixed (mixed dentition). While adult orthodontics focuses on “moving teeth,” the primary goal of pediatric orthodontics is to “develop the foundation (jaw) so that permanent teeth can align correctly.”

By utilizing a child’s natural growth potential, the risk of requiring major orthodontic work involving tooth extraction in the future can be reduced. In other words, by starting at an early stage, treatment with less burden can be expected.

Why Do Children’s Teeth Alignments Worsen?

One of the main causes of poor tooth alignment is a “lack of space in the jaw.” If the jaw does not grow sufficiently, there will be no room for the large permanent teeth to erupt. As a result, teeth may overlap (crowding) or become crooked.

In addition to genetic factors, daily “habits (oral habits)” also significantly influence jaw growth and tooth alignment.

Does Your Child Have Any of These Habits?

• Always has their mouth slightly open (mouth breathing)
• Pushes their tongue forward when swallowing
• Sucks their thumb or bites their nails
• Rests their chin on their hand

These are not just simple habits; they are causes that worsen tooth alignment. In particular, mouth breathing dries out the mouth, increasing the risk of cavities and gingivitis. Furthermore, it requires caution as it makes it easier to take in viruses, affecting overall health.

Against this background, our clinic provides not only treatment with appliances but also training for the muscles around the mouth (MFT) and guidance on improving habits. Through this, we aim for healthy tooth alignment without relapse.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Frequently Asked Questions

Here, we answer frequently asked questions regarding orthodontic treatment.

Is Orthodontic Treatment Painful?

When appliances are first fitted or immediately after adjustments, you may feel a floating sensation, pain, or discomfort in your teeth. However, this usually subsides within a few days to a week. Additionally, clear aligner treatment is said to involve relatively less pain.

Can I Still Get Orthodontic Treatment as an Adult?

Yes, it is possible. As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, you can receive orthodontic treatment regardless of age. In fact, the number of people starting treatment in their 40s and 50s has been increasing in recent years.

How long is the treatment period?

It depends on the condition of the teeth and the treatment method. For comprehensive orthodontics, it is generally about 2 to 3 years. On the other hand, partial orthodontics (MTM) can sometimes be completed in a few months to a year.

Is Tooth Extraction Always Necessary?

It is not always necessary. Based on examination results, we may propose extraction if there is insufficient space in the jaw or if we wish to improve the protrusion of the mouth. However, at our clinic, we prioritize considering a non-extraction treatment plan whenever possible.

Well-Aligned Teeth Are a Lifelong Asset

Orthodontic treatment is not just about beautifying your appearance. It also leads to the prevention of cavities and periodontal disease, and the maintenance of overall health through an improved bite. If you have even the slightest concern, such as “Can my teeth be fixed?” or “I’m worried about my child’s teeth,” please feel free to consult SACHI Dental Clinic in Mita/Shiba Koen.