Orthodontics is the dentistry specialty that diagnoses, prevents, and treats alignment disorders of the teeth on the jawbones, the occlusal (bite) relationships between the upper and lower jaws, and developmental imbalances in the facial skeleton. Crowded teeth are not merely an aesthetic concern; they represent a serious health problem that interferes with chewing function and creates a breeding ground for decay and gum disease because they are difficult to clean. At Dentmetrik, we combine the latest technologies offered by digital dentistry with our expert orthodontist staff to guide skeletal development in children and build healthy smiles for adults through aesthetic and transparent treatment options suitable for all ages.
Orthodontics (derived from the Greek words orthos meaning "straight" and odous meaning "tooth") is the science of moving teeth within the alveolar bone (jawbone) to bring them into their ideal anatomical positions. This movement occurs through light, continuous, and controlled mechanical forces applied to the teeth. These forces trigger the resorption of bone tissue in the direction of movement and the formation of new bone tissue (apposition) in the space left behind, allowing the tooth to slide biologically within the bone. Once thought to be applicable only during childhood, orthodontic treatments can now be performed with 100% success on adults of any age, provided their bone and gum health is sound.
The primary medical purpose of orthodontic treatment goes far beyond aligning teeth on an aesthetic curve. The core objective is to eliminate bite problems known as "malocclusion." When upper and lower teeth do not make full contact like a lock and key, it leads to excessive fatigue in chewing muscles, irreversible wear on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), head and neck pain, and even digestive system disorders. Orthodontics perfects biting, tearing, and grinding functions by moving teeth to their correct locations. Furthermore, it eliminates "blind spots" caused by crowding that a toothbrush cannot reach; thus, tartar accumulation, gum bleeding, and premature tooth loss are permanently prevented. Phonetically, it corrects speech and pronunciation disorders by ensuring the tongue makes proper contact with the teeth.
Orthodontic treatments are applied using different appliances and techniques based on the patient's age, the extent of the skeletal problem, and aesthetic expectations. The primary types of orthodontic treatment planned and performed at Dentmetrik clinics include:
At Dentmetrik, the orthodontic process begins with a detailed analysis and a fully digital planning phase. During the first examination, cephalometric and panoramic X-rays are taken to examine the angles of tooth roots and the position of the jawbones relative to the skull base. Instead of traditional putty impressions, the patient's existing dental structure is transferred to a computer environment in seconds using high-resolution 3D intraoral scanners. On this digital model, the movement of the teeth over the coming months and the final smile design are simulated and shown to the patient instantly.
During the treatment phase, if fixed brackets are chosen, the tooth surfaces are cleaned and brackets are positioned using special adhesives. Memory-alloy nickel-titanium or stainless steel wires are then threaded through these brackets to initiate force application. If clear aligner treatment is selected, custom-produced aligner sets are delivered with detailed usage instructions. In both methods, the patient usually visits for routine check-ups every 4 to 6 weeks for adjustments or new aligner series. Treatment duration can vary from 6 months to 2.5 years depending on the complexity of the case.
The most critical phase—often overlooked by patients—is Retention Therapy. Active treatment ends when the braces are removed or the last aligner is used. However, to ensure teeth do not drift back to their old crowded positions (relapse), an invisible thin stabilizer wire (lingual retainer) is bonded to the back of the teeth, or protective clear plates (Essix retainers) are provided for nighttime use.
The most obvious advantage is a symmetrical, aesthetic smile following the "golden ratio." Individuals who used to hide their smiles or cover their mouths in photos experience an incredible boost in self-confidence. Since this treatment uses your own natural teeth, you do not have to have your teeth filed down or covered with porcelain; thus, 100% of the biological tooth tissue is preserved.
From a functional standpoint, the advantages directly improve quality of life. As teeth reach the correct bite position, food is ground perfectly, lightening the load on the stomach and intestines. Because toothbrushes and floss can easily reach all interdental spaces, decay formation and gum recession (periodontitis) are permanently halted. A correct bite eliminates stress on the jaw joint and asymmetric muscle contractions, healing chronic headaches and jaw clicking. Orthodontics is the healthiest, most permanent, and most valuable dental investment one can make for the future.
Contact us immediately to get detailed information about clear aligner (Invisalign) and braces prices, digital smile design processes, and our specialized health tourism planning for international patients at our Ankara Dentmetrik clinic.
Metal bracket treatment, or classic braces, is the most established orthodontic method where tiny holders (brackets) made of medical-grade stainless steel are bonded to the front surfaces of the teeth. Special alloy wires passing through these brackets guide the teeth into their ideal positions to correct crowding, gaps, and jaw misalignment. Despite emerging technologies and transparent alternatives, metal brackets remain the "gold standard" even in the most challenging and complex orthodontic cases due to their high durability and flawless three-dimensional mechanical control. At Dentmetrik, using the highest quality and tissue-friendly metal bracket systems under the supervision of our orthodontists, we promise both children and adults a healthy, aesthetic smile that lasts a lifetime.
Metal bracket treatment is the system that most clearly utilizes the biomechanical principles of orthodontic movement. The main framework of the treatment consists of three essential parts: the metal brackets fixed to the tooth enamel with special adhesives, the orthodontic archwires with memory properties that pass through the grooves of these brackets to apply the actual force, and the tiny, colored or transparent elastic ties (ligatures) that hold the wire inside the bracket. Archwires are produced in the ideal, smooth curve form that the teeth should follow. When attached to crowded teeth, this wire applies constant and gentle force as it tries to return to its own ideal form. This mechanical force triggers a biological reaction within the jawbone, resorbing bone in the direction of movement and filling the space behind it with new bone tissue, thus moving the tooth millimeter by millimeter to its ideal position.
The primary medical purpose of this traditional yet highly effective treatment is to definitively treat structural imbalances called "malocclusion," where the upper and lower teeth do not close correctly. Crowded teeth are most prone to decay and gum recession because it is nearly impossible to brush away food debris trapped between them. When teeth are aligned perfectly and without error through metal brackets, maintaining oral hygiene becomes remarkably easy. Furthermore, by correcting conditions such as an open bite (front teeth not touching) or a deep bite (upper teeth overlapping lower teeth completely), the patient's tearing, chewing, and speaking (phonetic) functions are brought to ideal, healthy anatomical standards.
While metal brackets are manufactured from a single primary material (stainless steel or titanium alloy) by nature, they are divided into advanced technological types based on their ligation mechanisms. At Dentmetrik clinics, we apply the following types based on the case and the patient's expectations:
Metal bracket treatment can be applied to patients of all age groups, from 7 to 70, provided their bone health is sound. Especially in cases where aesthetic (clear) alternatives may be insufficient in applying necessary force, the primary applications of metal brackets include:
The orthodontic treatment process with metal brackets begins with a detailed radiological analysis by our specialist orthodontist. The bone structure and the angles of the tooth roots are calculated via panoramic and cephalometric X-rays. A treatment plan is created using digital impressions taken with intraoral scanners. To prepare the teeth for bracket bonding, all cavities in the mouth are treated, and a detailed professional cleaning (scaling) is performed. It is mandatory to start orthodontic treatment with completely healthy gums and a clean enamel surface.
The bonding session is a completely painless procedure and does not require anesthesia. The front surfaces of the teeth are slightly roughened with a special solution and washed. Then, using special orthodontic adhesives that do not harm the enamel and leave no trace when removed, the metal brackets are placed one by one with millimetric calculations and cured with a blue LED light. Once the brackets are bonded, the first and most flexible nickel-titanium archwire is threaded through and tied, officially beginning the active treatment. The entire process takes an average of 45–60 minutes. It is perfectly normal to feel a slight stinging or pressure sensation for 2-3 days when the wires are first placed or monthly tightened (activated); this is proof that the teeth have begun to move.
During treatment, patients generally need to visit for routine check-ups every 4 to 6 weeks. In these sessions, the wires are thickened and directing forces are renewed. It is vital for patients using metal brackets to avoid acidic drinks, sticky foods (gum, caramel), and very hard foods (nuts, ice, shelled foods) to prevent brackets from breaking off. Additionally, oral hygiene must be kept flawless using special orthodontic brushes and interdental brushes to prevent food accumulation around the brackets. When treatment is finished, the brackets are removed in seconds with a special tool without damaging the teeth. The teeth are smoothed, and the process is crowned with a perfect smile by bonding an invisible protective wire (lingual retainer) to the back surfaces to prevent the teeth from returning to their old positions.
The greatest advantage that metal bracket treatment offers to both patients and physicians is unparalleled predictability and certainty. Stainless steel brackets are extremely resistant to breakage; therefore, the treatment process is not interrupted by mechanical failures. While the success of clear aligner treatments depends on the patient's discipline to wear the aligner for 22 hours a day (patient cooperation), the control of treatment with fixed metal brackets is 100% in the hands of the specialist; whether the patient forgets or not, the teeth continue to correct themselves 24/7 without interruption.
From a biomechanical standpoint, metal brackets remain the most powerful and fastest system for moving the root of the tooth within the jawbone in three dimensions (up-down, left-right, and rotation). Thanks to this strong pushing/pulling capacity, they can finish the overall treatment period months earlier than aesthetic alternatives in many difficult cases. Furthermore, since production costs are lower compared to porcelain brackets or clear aligner systems, metal bracket treatments generally stand out as the most economical and budget-friendly orthodontic treatment option. Due to its durability, affordability, and definitive results, it is an investment that has proven its reliability for years.
To receive detailed information about metal bracket (braces) treatment prices, child and adult orthodontic processes, and health tourism opportunities for international patients at our Ankara Dentmetrik clinic, you can contact us to schedule an appointment.
Lingual bracket treatment is a completely invisible and aesthetic orthodontic method where the metal brackets and wires are bonded not to the visible front surfaces of the teeth, but directly to the internal surfaces (lingual surfaces) facing the tongue. While offering 100% of the biomechanical power and three-dimensional movement capability of classic metal brackets, it ensures that no one notices the patient is undergoing orthodontic treatment from the outside. At Dentmetrik, we successfully apply custom-made digital lingual bracket systems (CAD/CAM) with our expert orthodontist staff, particularly for adult patients with high aesthetic concerns in their social and professional lives, protecting your privacy at the highest level while correcting your smile.
The word "Lingual" in medical terminology means "belonging to or situated near the tongue." Mechanically, lingual bracket treatment works on the exact same principles as traditional external braces; it moves teeth within the jawbone by applying constant and gentle forces. However, the anatomical shape of the back (lingual) surfaces of the teeth is not flat or standard like the front surfaces; rather, it has a complex topography that is highly indented and unique to each individual. For this reason, lingual brackets are specifically designed and produced to fit each patient's dental anatomy with millimetric precision, rather than using standard prefabricated parts.
The primary medical purpose of this high-tech treatment is to allow patients who avoid the aesthetic disadvantages of traditional braces (the "metallic smile") to be treated for even the most complex skeletal and dental malocclusions. Lingual brackets do not have the limitations of clear aligners, such as the requirement for strict patient discipline (wearing them 22 hours a day) or the potential difficulty in achieving full root movement in very advanced crowding cases. Lingual therapy aims to definitively correct deep bites, open bites, asymmetries, and severe crowding by applying uninterrupted force 24/7 without requiring patient compliance, all while maintaining the highest level of psychological and social comfort throughout the process.
Today, lingual orthodontics progresses through "custom-made" systems rather than standard production brackets. Thanks to these systems, brackets have been made much thinner (ultra-slim), significantly shortening the tongue's adaptation period. The primary lingual technologies applied at Dentmetrik clinics include:
Lingual treatment is suitable for individuals of all ages who have replaced their baby teeth with permanent teeth. However, specific situations where it is particularly preferred include:
The lingual orthodontic process requires much more detailed digital planning and high laboratory precision than traditional braces. In the first stage, high-resolution digital impressions are taken with 3D intraoral scanners, and radiological analyses are completed. This digital data is sent to specialized lingual orthodontic laboratories. Under the direction of our specialist, the final result (setup) is simulated on a computer, and the custom brackets and wires are produced using CAD/CAM technology. This personalized manufacturing process usually requires a waiting period of 3 to 5 weeks.
When the brackets arrive at our clinic, they are applied using a very special technique called Indirect Bonding. Brackets are not placed on the teeth one by one; they arrive pre-aligned from the lab in a special silicone transfer tray. The back surfaces of the teeth are washed, dried, and treated with adhesives. The silicone tray is fitted over the teeth in a single motion and light-cured, ensuring all brackets bond simultaneously with zero error. This session is quite comfortable and takes about an hour. Then, the first flexible robotic wires are placed to activate the treatment.
The adaptation period is the most important part of lingual treatment. Because the brackets are in an area the tongue constantly touches, it is perfectly normal to experience slight tongue irritation and temporary lisping (especially with 'S', 'T', or 'Z' sounds) during the first 1-2 weeks. To speed up this process, patients are given protective orthodontic wax and advised to read aloud. Within a few weeks, the tongue fully adapts. Control sessions are generally held every 5-6 weeks.
The most unique advantage is the invisibility factor. You can smile and laugh freely throughout the treatment without hiding your teeth in photos; no one will know you are undergoing treatment unless you tell them. Beyond aesthetics, it has a significant medical advantage: the enamel on the front surface of the tooth is much more sensitive than on the back. The risk of decalcification (permanent white spots) due to inadequate hygiene is much lower in lingual treatment because the back surfaces are close to salivary glands and are constantly washed by saliva.
Compared to clear aligners, there is no social restriction such as removing the appliance to eat or drink. Since the brackets are fixed, your progress is entirely under the control of your orthodontist, eliminating the stress of "patient compliance." The ultra-thin custom bracket profile maximizes efficiency while reducing friction, allowing for faster and more controlled tooth movement. Combining the confidence of invisibility with the mechanical power of fixed treatment, lingual brackets are one of the most luxurious and satisfying options in modern orthodontics.
Contact us immediately to receive detailed information about custom lingual (internal braces) prices in Ankara, process planning, and the health tourism privileges we offer for our international guests at our Dentmetrik clinic.
No, there is no upper age limit for orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic treatment (braces or clear aligners) can be applied with 100% success to individuals of all age groups from 7 to 70 whose teeth and gums (jawbone support) are healthy. Adult orthodontics is very common today.
You will not feel any pain during the placement of brackets or taking measurements. However, when the wires are first installed and tightened during monthly check-ups, it is very normal to feel a slight pressure, ache, and sensitivity in chewing in the teeth for the first 2-3 days, depending on your teeth starting to move.
Traditional metal or porcelain brackets attached to the outside of the tooth and clear aligner treatments (Invisalign) absolutely do not affect speech. Only in lingual (attached from the inside) braces, a slight lisp (especially on S-Ş letters) may be seen for the first 1 week for the tongue to get used to the wires, and then it returns completely to normal.
If retention treatment is not applied, teeth tend to return to their old state (relapse). To prevent this, when your treatment is finished, a permanent, thin "protective wire" is bonded to the unseen back surfaces of your front teeth, or you are given protective plates to wear at night. In this way, your smile remains safe for a lifetime.
The treatment period varies between 6 months and 2.5 years depending on the size of your skeletal problem. The patient not missing their appointments, wearing it with discipline for 22 hours a day if using a clear aligner, and staying away from hard foods that will break their brackets prevents the treatment time from being delayed.
Slight irritations may occur on the inside of the cheeks and lips during the 1-2 week adjustment period after the brackets are attached. During this period, you can solve this problem instantly and painlessly by sticking the special "orthodontic protective waxes" we will give you onto the poking bracket. Tissues will get used to the presence of metal in a short time.
To prevent your brackets from breaking/snapping; you should stay away from hard nuts such as hazelnuts, walnuts, roasted chickpeas, candies that stick to the teeth such as gum and caramel, and acidic drinks (cola, etc.). As for hard foods like apples, carrots, and bagels, you can eat them not by biting, but by cutting them into small pieces with a knife and using your back teeth.
Since food accumulation around brackets is much easier, it is mandatory that you brush your teeth at least 3 times a day with your normal toothbrush, and additionally with special "interdental brushes" that go between the brackets. Otherwise, when the wires are removed at the end of the treatment, you may encounter white decay spots on your teeth.
Our patients using metal brackets generally need to come to routine clinical check-ups every 4 to 6 weeks for the activation of the wires, changing the elastics, and monitoring the process. Missing check-ups prolongs the treatment duration.
Of course. For our adult patients who do not want the classic metal look, we have sapphire/porcelain bracket options that are the same color as the tooth or completely transparent. Aesthetically, they are much less noticeable from the outside and provide the same mechanical success.
Since modern lingual brackets are produced in a laboratory environment with an "ultra-slim" profile in accordance with the patient's own tooth anatomy, they do not restrict the movement area of the tongue. Slight irritation on the tongue is normal during the first 1 week of adaptation, but this period is easily overcome with the protective waxes we will give you.
No, it does not extend. In fact, in some complex cases, thanks to the proximity of the biomechanical force applied by the lingual brackets to the tooth's center, tooth movements can occur much faster and more controlled than traditional wires attached from the outside.
Yes. Since lingual orthodontics provides full mechanical control just like metal brackets; it can be applied with 100% success in all of the most challenging and complex orthodontic cases, such as open bite, deep bite, severe crowding, or treatments requiring tooth extraction.
Although cleaning the back surface of the teeth requires slightly more practice than the front surface, it is quite easy to ensure hygiene using special angled orthodontic brushes, oral irrigators (waterpik), and interdental brushes recommended by your doctor. Moreover, since the back surface of the teeth is constantly washed with saliva, the risk of cavity formation is much lower compared to the front surface.
While clear aligners require a discipline of wearing them for 22 hours a day (patient compliance) and must be taken out while eating/drinking tea; since lingual wires are fixed, they work at full capacity 24/7 without requiring any effort from you and without the risk of forgetting. It is the ideal combination of maximum aesthetics and freedom from the stress of patient compliance.
Send us a message
+90 (216) 766 41 00
