���۴�ý

Orthodontic care can play an important role in achieving a healthy, confident smile at any age. Whether a child needs an early evaluation or an adult is considering braces, the Orthodontics Clinic at UT Dentistry offers patients a range of personalized options designed for comfort, precision and long-lasting results.

To help patients better understand what to expect from different orthodontic treatments, Maria Karakousoglou, BDS, MS, Director of the Orthodontic Residency Program at UT Dentistry, explains different treatment options, their advantages and who they may benefit most. As an orthodontic clinician and educator, Karakousoglou’s focus when treating patients is on evidence-based, individualized care using the latest orthodontic techniques and technologies, including some specialized approaches that require advanced training and are therefore not commonly available. 

Early treatment for growing smiles

Preventive, or “Phase 1,” orthodontic treatment typically begins between ages 7 and 11, when children still have a mix of baby and permanent teeth. Because they are still growing, this is the ideal time to guide jaw development and correct early bite issues to prevent more complex problems later.

“Only a small percentage of children need early treatment, but for those who do, it can make a lasting difference. Early orthodontic intervention can help prevent extractions or even surgery later in life,” said Karakousoglou.

Common reasons for early orthodontic treatment include:

• Thumb-sucking habits that have affected jaw or tooth position
• Guiding proper jaw growth and allowing teeth to erupt correctly
• Correcting underbites, overbites or crossbites before they worsen
• Creating space for crowded teeth
• Addressing aesthetic concerns that may affect a child’s confidence

Karakousoglou recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation around age 7, even if their teeth appear straight, to allow for monitoring and timely intervention if needed.

Comprehensive treatment options

Comprehensive, or “Phase 2,” treatment begins once most permanent teeth have erupted, typically around age 12. This phase focuses on improving teeth alignment, the bite and overall function and appearance.

A range of appliance options are available in the clinic. According to Karakousoglou, what ends up being used depends on a patient’s specific needs and preferences. She provided an overview of different types of orthodontic treatments:

• Traditional metal braces: Reliable and effective for all types of cases, and require monthly adjustments by the orthodontist.
• Clear or ceramic braces: Function similarly to metal braces but blend with the natural tooth color for a more discreet look.
• Clear aligners: Nearly invisible trays worn 22 hours per day and changed weekly. Treatment is digitally planned for accuracy and requires fewer office visits than traditional metal braces.
• Lingual braces: Customized braces placed on the inside surfaces of the teeth, making them invisible from the outside. Though it may take a patient a few weeks to adjust to the feel of these, they are suitable for almost every case. 

Specialized and limited treatments

For patients needing minor adjustments, such as closing small gaps, correcting slight shifting after previous treatment or preparing teeth for bridges or implants, limited orthodontic treatment may be appropriate. 

UT Dentistry also provides surgical orthodontics for patients with complex needs, including craniofacial conditions, jaw alignment issues and sleep apnea related to jaw structure.

Orthodontics for all ages

There is no age limit for orthodontic treatment. As Karakousoglou notes, as long as teeth and gums are healthy, patients can successfully undergo treatment. “I’ve treated patients well into their 90s,” she said.

The success of orthodontic treatment depends on biological factors and patient cooperation, more than the specific appliance used. The length of treatment time is unique to every patient. Consistent oral hygiene, attending scheduled appointments and wearing retainers are crucial for short-term and long-term success. 

“Patients should continue seeing their general dentist during treatment to maintain overall oral health,” said Karakousoglou.

Ready to take the first step toward your best smile? 

Evaluations for any patient are complimentary at UT Dentistry, and children are monitored at no cost until they are ready for treatment. Patients interested in an evaluation can contact the UT Dentistry Orthodontics Clinic for more information at 210-567-0070 or visit UTDentistry.org/Orthodontics to request an appointment and learn more about orthodontic options at UT Dentistry.