Orthodontics Gdańsk

Digital orthodontics is a modern approach to malocclusion treatment that utilizes advanced computer technologies at every stage of therapy. At Prodent Gdańsk, we work in a fully digital environment, which means that instead of traditional, uncomfortable plaster impressions, we perform 3D scans of the oral cavity using intraoral scanners. This makes the entire process faster, more accurate, and more comfortable for the patient. Digital orthodontics allows us to create a precise treatment plan in a virtual environment – even before starting therapy, you can see a 3D visualization of your future smile. All data is stored on digital drives, making it easy to compare treatment progress during subsequent visits. Additionally, we use specialized software to plan tooth movement, which allows the orthodontist to precisely predict each stage of correction and select the optimal orthodontic appliance for a specific malocclusion.

Orthodontic treatment can begin at any age – for both children and adults. The first orthodontic consultation for children is recommended around 6-7 years of age, when the first permanent teeth begin to erupt. Early diagnosis allows for detecting potential problems with jaw development and bite, and if necessary, applying removable appliances (orthodontic plates) that guide proper bone development and prevent more serious malocclusions in the future. Fixed braces are usually applied at 10-14 years of age, when most permanent teeth have already erupted. However, there is no upper age limit – more and more adult patients decide on orthodontic treatment, often choosing discreet solutions such as Invisalign aligners or aesthetic braces (porcelain, sapphire). At Prodent Gdańsk, we regularly treat patients aged 30, 40, 50, and older who want to improve the appearance of their smile and oral health. The key is the health of the gums and bone – with good periodontal condition, orthodontic treatment is possible at any age.

At Prodent Gdańsk, we select the orthodontic appliance individually based on the type of malocclusion, patient's age, aesthetic expectations, and budget. We offer a wide range of solutions: Fixed metal braces – the most classic and effective solution, ideal for correcting even complex malocclusions; metal brackets are clearly visible but very durable and reliable. Aesthetic fixed braces (porcelain, sapphire) – work identically to metal ones, but the brackets are made of transparent or white material, making them significantly less visible and more aesthetic. Removable appliances (Schwarz plates, functional appliances) – mainly used in children and adolescents during the growth phase, they allow for correcting jaw development and tooth alignment, easy to put on and take off, which facilitates hygiene. Orthodontic aligners (Invisalign type aligners) – transparent, removable aligners perfectly fitted to the teeth, practically invisible, can be removed for meals and brushing teeth, ideal for adults who value discretion and comfort. Combined solutions – sometimes we combine different methods to achieve the best effect (e.g., fixed braces + orthodontic micro-implants for better anchorage). During the orthodontic consultation, we thoroughly discuss all available options and jointly choose the best solution.

The duration of orthodontic treatment is individual and depends on many factors: the complexity of the malocclusion, the patient's age, the chosen type of appliance, and patient cooperation (regular visits, wearing intermaxillary elastics, proper hygiene). On average, treatment lasts from 12 to 30 months (1-2.5 years), although in simpler cases it may end after 8-10 months, and in more complex cases it may take up to 3 years. Removable appliances in children are usually used for 6-18 months. Fixed braces are worn for an average of 18-24 months. Invisalign aligners – treatment time is similar to fixed braces (12-24 months), but depends on adherence to the recommendation of wearing aligners for 20-22 hours a day. During the first consultation, the orthodontist at Prodent Gdańsk will prepare a detailed treatment plan with the predicted duration of therapy. Thanks to digital orthodontics, we can precisely plan each stage and show you a 3D visualization of what your smile will look like after treatment. After the braces are removed, the retention phase (stabilization of results) begins, which usually lasts 2-3 years or longer.

The procedure of applying orthodontic braces itself is painless and performed with the patient's full comfort. A slight feeling of discomfort or pressure may occur in the first 2-5 days after braces are applied and after each activation visit (appliance adjustment), when the orthodontist changes wires or tightens elements. This is a completely normal sensation associated with the initiation of tooth movement – teeth must "adjust" to a new position, which requires gentle pressure. Discomfort is usually mild to moderate and well controlled with available pain relievers (ibuprofen, paracetamol). Most patients describe it more as a feeling of "tightness" than sharp pain. After a few days, the discomfort subsides spontaneously as the teeth get used to the new situation. Invisalign aligners are usually even more comfortable – patients report minimal discomfort when changing to a new pair of aligners. At Prodent Gdańsk, we use modern nickel-titanium archwires with shape memory, which exert gentle, constant pressure on the teeth, minimizing discomfort. If irritation of the cheek or lips by appliance elements occurs during treatment, we immediately correct it or provide special orthodontic wax to protect the mucous membrane.

The frequency of follow-up visits depends on the type of appliance and the stage of treatment. For fixed braces, visits usually take place every 4-6 weeks (once a month or every month and a half). During these visits, the orthodontist: assesses treatment progress, replaces orthodontic archwires with stronger/thinner ones, tightens appliance elements, checks oral hygiene and gum condition, and sometimes applies intermaxillary elastics or other additional elements. Each visit usually lasts 15-30 minutes. For Invisalign aligners, follow-up visits take place every 8-12 weeks (once every 2-3 months), as the patient independently changes aligners at home every 1-2 weeks according to the plan. During the visit, the orthodontist assesses progress, provides the next set of aligners (usually 3-6 pairs at a time), and if necessary, applies attachments (small composite "handles" on the teeth). For removable appliances in children, visits are less frequent – usually every 8-12 weeks, when the orthodontist assesses jaw development and, if necessary, activates the plate (tightens the expansion screw). Regular visits are crucial for treatment success – they allow for ongoing monitoring of progress and prompt response to any potential problems.

Retention is the phase of stabilizing the results after active orthodontic treatment – its purpose is to maintain the teeth in their new, correct position and prevent them from shifting back (so-called relapse). After the braces are removed, teeth have a natural tendency to move back towards their original position because periodontal fibers and bone need time to fully adapt to the new alignment. Therefore, retention is absolutely essential – without it, the treatment effects may partially or completely reverse. At Prodent Gdańsk, we use two types of retention: Fixed retainer – a thin wire bonded to the inner side of the lower or upper incisors, practically invisible and imperceptible, remains permanently (usually for many years or forever), provides the best protection against relapse. Removable retainer (removable appliance) – a transparent aligner worn at night, similar to Invisalign aligners, easy to maintain hygiene, recommended for a period of 2-3 years or longer, especially for the upper arch. We usually recommend a combination of both methods for maximum stability. The retention phase lasts a minimum of 2-3 years, but the longer retention is used, the better the treatment effects are consolidated.

The choice between Invisalign aligners and fixed braces depends on the type of malocclusion, your aesthetic expectations, lifestyle, and budget. Invisalign aligners are the best choice if: you value discretion (aligners are practically invisible), you want to maintain freedom (they can be removed for meals, important meetings), you care about comfort (no metal elements that could irritate cheeks), it's easier to maintain hygiene (brushing and flossing without obstacles), you have a mild to moderate malocclusion (crowding, gaps, slight crossbite). Fixed braces are the best choice if: you have a complex malocclusion requiring precise control (deep bite, significant tooth rotations, extractions), you want the fastest possible effect (fixed braces sometimes work a bit faster), you prefer a lower price (metal braces are the cheapest), you are worried you might forget to wear aligners regularly (fixed braces work 24/7). At Prodent Gdańsk, during the orthodontic consultation, we thoroughly assess your case, discuss the pros and cons of both solutions, and jointly choose the method best suited to your needs. Sometimes hybrid treatment is also possible – e.g., starting with fixed braces and finishing with Invisalign aligners for maximum comfort and aesthetics at the final stage.

The price of orthodontic treatment at Prodent Gdańsk is determined individually during an orthodontic consultation, as it depends on many factors: the type and complexity of the malocclusion, the chosen type of appliance, the predicted treatment time, and additional procedures (e.g., tooth extractions, orthodontic micro-implants). Approximate prices for orthodontic treatment: Orthodontic consultation with full diagnostics (clinical examination, analysis of X-rays, cephalometric images) – PLN 300-500. Removable appliance (orthodontic plate) – PLN 1200-2000. Fixed metal braces (1 arch: upper or lower) – PLN 3000-4500, full treatment (2 arches) – PLN 6000-9000. Aesthetic fixed braces (porcelain/sapphire, 1 arch) – PLN 4000-6000, full treatment – PLN 8000-12000. Invisalign aligners – depending on the number of aligners and treatment time: PLN 8000-18000 for full treatment. Follow-up/activation visits – PLN 200-400 per visit (every 4-6 weeks for fixed braces). Retention after treatment: fixed retainer – PLN 500-800, removable retainer – PLN 600-1000. We offer installment payment options and flexible settlement forms tailored to the patient's budget. You will receive a precise quote along with a detailed treatment plan during a free orthodontic consultation at Prodent Gdańsk.

Yes, there are situations in which orthodontic treatment cannot be started or must be postponed until other dental problems are resolved. Absolute contraindications: Active caries – all carious lesions must be treated before braces are applied, as braces hinder hygiene and can accelerate caries development. Gingivitis and periodontitis (gum disease) – periodontal diseases weaken the tissues supporting the teeth, and orthodontic movement could further damage them. Before orthodontic treatment, it is necessary to treat inflammation and stabilize the periodontium. Untreated inflammatory conditions in the oral cavity (abscesses, periodontal changes). Severe systemic diseases (uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune diseases, bisphosphonate treatment, radiotherapy in the head area). Relative contraindications (require special attention or preparation): Leaky fillings – should be replaced before treatment. Bruxism (teeth grinding) – may require the use of special protective splints. Age under 6 years – the jaw skeleton and bite are still in an intensive development phase. Pregnancy – we usually postpone the start of orthodontic treatment, although continuation of already initiated treatment is possible. At Prodent Gdańsk, during the orthodontic consultation, we thoroughly assess the oral health status and, if necessary, refer the patient first to a conservative dentist, periodontist, or surgeon for preparation for orthodontic treatment.