Quickly and easily find answers to frequently asked questions from our patients related to orthodontics and our services. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, feel free to contact us – we’ll be happy to assist you.
The first orthodontic consultation is recommended at 6 years of age. This allows the orthodontist to identify potential issues early and plan the best time to start treatment.
Early signs include: lack of space in the jaw for all teeth, protruding front teeth, deep bite, early or late loss of baby teeth, thumb or finger sucking habits, difficulty speaking, chewing, or swallowing, teeth grinding, or missing teeth.
The best type of braces for children depends on their specific needs and orthodontic problems. Common options include aesthetic brackets, metal brackets, and removable braces for milder cases. The orthodontist will assess your child’s condition and recommend the most suitable option
Help your child adapt to braces by encouraging consistent oral hygiene, preparing softer foods initially, offering praise and encouragement, and ensuring regular orthodontic visits for adjustments and monitoring.
Proper oral hygiene includes brushing teeth after every meal, using dental floss or interdental brushes, rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash, maintaining the braces, and visiting the dentist regularly for professional cleaning and check-ups.
Braces may cause mild pain or discomfort, particularly after placement or adjustments. This discomfort typically lasts a few days and can be managed with orthodontist-recommended pain relief methods.
Ease your child’s fear of orthodontic visits by discussing what to expect, visiting the clinic beforehand, fostering positive thoughts, rewarding their bravery, and offering support during appointments.
Children should visit the orthodontist every 6 to 8 weeks. The orthodontist will adjust the schedule based on treatment needs and progress.
The most common orthodontic problems in children include crowded teeth, gaps between teeth, malocclusion (improper bite), protruding or recessed front teeth, and misaligned jaw relationships.
The first consultation includes a thorough examination of the teeth, jaws, and face, X-rays, photographs of the teeth and face for documentation, dental impressions for study models, and a discussion of potential orthodontic issues and treatment plans.
Metal braces are made of stainless steel and are very durable, while aesthetic braces are made of materials such as ceramic or composite, making them less visible and more aesthetically pleasing. Aesthetic braces are a popular choice for adults due to their discreet appearance but are slightly more expensive.
Aligners are clear, removable plastic devices used to straighten teeth. They work by being replaced every few weeks, gradually shifting teeth into the desired position. Each set of aligners is tailored to specific stages of tooth movement, making the treatment discreet and comfortable.
The most common orthodontic problems in adults include crowded teeth, gaps between teeth, malocclusion (improper bite), protruding or recessed front teeth, and misalignment of the jaws. These issues can affect both the aesthetics of the smile and the functionality of the bite.
Yes, orthodontic treatment can be done at any age. While the ideal time for orthodontic treatments is during childhood or adolescence, many adults successfully undergo orthodontic therapies and achieve desired results.
Wearing braces may cause slight discomfort, especially at the start of treatment or after adjustments, but it usually does not interfere with daily activities. After the initial adjustment period, most patients adapt to their braces and can carry out their daily routines normally.
Yes, orthodontic treatments can often be combined with other dental procedures. For example, orthodontic therapy can be performed alongside procedures such as dental implants or restorative treatments to achieve optimal aesthetic and functional results. If there is a cavity, the brace is removed until the tooth is repaired, but teeth whitening is recommended after orthodontic therapy.
During orthodontic therapy, regular check-ups are typically scheduled every 6-8 weeks.
Symptoms indicating the need for an orthodontic consultation include crowded or spaced teeth, missing one or more teeth, improper bite, difficulty chewing or speaking, jaw or tooth pain, and protruding or recessed front teeth. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s recommended to consult an orthodontist.
Preventive orthodontic exams can help prevent serious dental issues such as overcrowding, malocclusion, gum disease, and jaw problems. Early detection and treatment of these issues can avoid the need for more complex and costly procedures in the future.
Early detection of orthodontic problems is very important as it allows for timely planning and treatment. Early intervention can prevent worsening issues, reduce treatment duration, and ensure optimal results for oral health and the aesthetics of the smile.
Teeth whitening uses chemical agents, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which penetrate the enamel and break down pigments responsible for discoloration. This process removes stains and discoloration, making teeth brighter and shinier.
The effects of teeth whitening can last from several months to a few years, depending on the type of treatment and dietary habits. Avoiding stain-causing foods and drinks, such as coffee and red wine, is recommended for 2–3 days post-treatment, as the whitening process is still active.
Teeth whitening is typically recommended every 6 to 12 months, depending on the initial condition of your teeth and results from previous treatments. Over-whitening can damage enamel and gums.
Aesthetic fillings are placed by first removing the damaged part of the tooth. Then, a material such as composite is applied, shaped, and hardened. After placement, the filling is polished to match the natural color and shape of the tooth.
Aesthetic fillings can last between 5 and 15 years, depending on the quality of the material, application technique, and oral hygiene maintenance. Regular check-ups and good hygiene can extend the lifespan of fillings.
It is recommended to have tartar professionally removed every 6 to 12 months. Regular cleanings help prevent gum disease, cavities, and other issues caused by tartar buildup.
Teeth sandblasting uses fine powder under high pressure to remove stains and deposits from the surface of teeth. Tartar cleaning, on the other hand, uses ultrasonic instruments to remove hardened deposits that cannot be eliminated by regular brushing. Sandblasting is often an additional step to enhance the aesthetic appearance after tartar cleaning.
Laser crown lengthening is needed when the tooth crown is covered by excessive gingiva (gums) or when more of the tooth needs to be exposed for restoration or orthodontic treatment. For example, this can occur in children undergoing orthodontic therapy with swollen gums due to inadequate hygiene.
Gingivectomy is a surgical procedure to remove excess gingiva (gums) to enhance the aesthetics of teeth or improve functionality. It is recommended for overly thick or excessive gum tissue or for treating periodontal diseases.
After a gingivectomy, it is essential to follow the dentist’s instructions for care and oral hygiene. This includes using gentle rinsing solutions, avoiding hard and spicy foods, and attending regular follow-ups to monitor the healing process. Mild pain and swelling may persist for a few days post-procedure.
Yes, we do. Ortodoncija Vukelja is a contractual partner with HZZO for orthodontics, but this right is only available to individuals under 18 years old.
Yes, if you are under 18 years old.
We offer cash payments and payments through online banking.
The first orthodontic examination lasts an average of 10-15 minutes. It includes an introductory conversation, an examination of the teeth and an orthopantomogram, as well as consultations.
Yes. Patient satisfaction is very important to us, and good organization is key to minimizing waiting times. Therefore, appointments should always be scheduled in advance by calling our phone number +385 47 778 777 or by email at ortodoncija.vukelja@gmail.com.
In case of urgency, it is necessary to call ahead and notify us before coming.
We approach each patient individually, so everything is possible by arrangement.
Ideally, bring an orthopantomogram to the first examination to ensure a thorough review.
Any orthodontic therapy begins with a first examination and consultation, during which all necessary information about further options and treatment procedures is gathered.
Feel free to contact us, and we will get back to you.