Modern orthodontics is much gentler than it used to be. When the appliance is activated or a new aligner is placed, the child may feel mild pressure for 1–2 days, which is a natural part of the process. There is no need to expect significant pain. The gentle forces and modern technologies we use minimize any discomfort.
Treatment length is always individual and depends on the complexity of the problem. An early, removable-appliance (Phase 1) treatment usually takes 6–12 months. Treatment on the permanent dentition with fixed braces or Invisalign Teen (Phase 2) takes on average 1–1.5 years. We can determine the exact duration after the first consultation and digital planning.
The frequency of check-ups depends on the treatment phase and the appliance type. In general, appointments are needed every 6–12 weeks, when we monitor progress, activate the appliance, or hand over the next set of Invisalign aligners. These visits are usually short, so they easily fit into the family schedule.
Perfect oral hygiene is crucial. We show and practice the correct technique in detail. Removable appliances (both traditional and Invisalign) should be cleaned daily with a soft toothbrush and water. With fixed braces, in addition to normal toothbrushing we recommend using special single-tuft and interdental brushes to keep the areas around the brackets clean.
This depends on the appliance type. With traditional "night-time" appliances or Invisalign there are no dietary restrictions, as they should be removed before eating. With fixed braces, very hard (e.g. nuts) and sticky (e.g. caramel) foods should be avoided to protect the brackets. Apples or carrots are also recommended cut into pieces rather than bitten into.
Yes. With removable appliances (e.g. Invisalign), sports and music can continue without limits — the aligners can simply be taken out. With fixed braces, a special mouthguard is required for contact sports (e.g. martial arts, ice hockey), which we help to obtain. With wind instruments, after a few weeks of getting used to the appliance, playing is no problem.
Minor issues can happen, but everything has a solution. If a bracket falls off or the end of the wire pokes, please call the clinic. In most cases we can give advice over the phone (e.g. cover the poking part with the wax provided in the kit), or arrange a short, priority appointment to resolve the problem quickly.
Cooperation is crucial. Invisalign aligners have a discreet blue compliance indicator that fades during wear, so both we and the parent can objectively see the wear time. If we notice that the child is not motivated enough, we look for the causes and the solution together. It's important that this is a shared journey, where our role is constant encouragement and support for parental supervision.
Teeth have "memory" and would tend to drift back. That's why the retention (holding) phase after active treatment is at least as important as the orthodontics itself. At the end of treatment we place a thin fixed wire (fixed retainer) on the inner surface of the teeth and/or provide a removable aligner for night wear. These ensure that the beautiful result lasts a lifetime.
Every case is unique, so the price depends on the complexity of the problem and the chosen appliance. Importantly, at the Foxxi clinic the jointly agreed treatment plan and quote includes everything: the appliance itself, its placement/bonding, all check-ups during the entire treatment, the removal of the appliance, and the retention appliances at the end of treatment. There are no hidden costs. Installment payment options are available, and we accept most health-fund cards.
