Condition Guide · When Teeth Are Misaligned
When Teeth Are Misaligned
Malocclusion refers to a condition in which the alignment or occlusal relationship of the upper and lower teeth deviates from the norm. It encompasses crowding, dental protrusion, spacing, and skeletal Class III relationships, and can be a contributing factor not only to aesthetic concerns but also to dental caries, periodontal disease, and temporomandibular disorders — making orthodontic correction advisable.
Treatment options for this condition
About this condition
Crowding, dental protrusion, spacing, and skeletal malocclusion are known to contribute not only to aesthetic problems but also to dental caries, periodontal disease, and temporomandibular disorders. Improved tooth alignment is reported to facilitate more effective oral hygiene.
At Dr. Beauty Dental Hospital in Uijeongbu, a board-certified orthodontist joins the team to perform a precise 3D intraoral scan analysis and then guides each patient toward the most suitable approach — clear aligners, ceramic braces, or lingual braces — based on individual conditions. Adult orthodontics is actively practiced, and treatment duration is generally reported to fall within the range of one to two years, though individual variation exists.
Check yourself
Check if this applies to you.
Misaligned teeth are not merely an aesthetic issue. Areas that a toothbrush cannot reach easily are prone to decay, and occlusal discrepancy may place stress on the temporomandibular joint. Dr. Beauty Dental Hospital uses collaborative diagnosis with an orthodontic specialist and a 3D intraoral scanner to guide each patient to the most appropriate orthodontic method.
Causes
Why this condition occurs.
- 01
Genetic factors (imbalance between jaw size and tooth size)
- 02
Childhood habits (thumb-sucking, mouth breathing)
- 03
Premature loss of primary teeth resulting in insufficient space for permanent teeth
- 04
Wisdom tooth eruption causing crowding
Want to know exactly where you stand?
Start with a CT and intraoral scanner diagnosis.
Treatment options
Treatment options for your condition.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions.
- Q. Can adults undergo orthodontic treatment?
Yes, adult orthodontics is commonly performed. Treatment is reported to be feasible regardless of age when the teeth and gums are healthy, though suitability depends on individual diagnosis.
The collaborating orthodontic specialist at Dr. Beauty Dental Hospital uses 3D intraoral scan analysis to advise on the most appropriate method for each patient's condition. Clear aligners are reported to be comparatively less conspicuous in daily life.
If you would like to know which option suits you, this can be determined at a consultation.
- Q. How long does orthodontic treatment take?
A duration of one to two years is generally reported, while limited orthodontic treatment typically takes approximately six months to one year. Individual variation can occur depending on the severity of the malocclusion, the treatment method, and patient compliance.
At Dr. Beauty Dental Hospital, detailed examination is used to estimate the expected duration for each patient.
Exact duration and cost can be discussed in greater detail at an in-person consultation.
- Q. How long does recovery take?
Orthodontic treatment itself is generally known to take one to two years, while limited orthodontics is reported to fall within the six-month-to-one-year range. Individual variation arises from the severity of the malocclusion, the treatment method, and patient compliance.
After treatment ends, retainer wear for at least one to two years is necessary; lifetime nighttime retainer wear is ideally recommended to prevent relapse.
An estimated timeframe specific to your case will be provided following diagnosis.
- Q. How much does treatment cost?
Orthodontic treatment is a non-covered (cosmetic) expense borne by the patient; costs vary according to appliance type, treatment duration, and whether extractions are required.
Current item-by-item reference fees are listed on the [Non-Covered Fee Schedule](https://dbdh.co.kr/community/pricing). Skeletal malocclusion cases requiring orthognathic surgery are known to be partially covered by insurance in some circumstances.
Cost and treatment planning consultations take place after diagnosis.
- Q. What side effects can occur during or after treatment?
Side effects reported with orthodontic treatment include pain, tooth sensitivity, root resorption, gingival recession, and temporary changes in speech. Pain intensity varies considerably among individuals and is generally most pronounced for two to three days after appliance placement, after which adaptation typically occurs.
In addition, relapse is reported when retainers are not worn after treatment completion, making adequate post-treatment management necessary.
The somewhat increased risk of decay due to difficulties in oral hygiene maintenance will also be explained in advance.
- Q. How can I check my own condition at home?
Please check the following: ① Whether your teeth appear well-aligned in the mirror. ② Whether the upper and lower teeth meet evenly when biting, or shift to one side. ③ Whether there is any awkwardness in your speech. ④ Whether calculus tends to accumulate in areas a toothbrush cannot easily reach. ⑤ Whether one side of your jaw fatigues frequently.
Accurate assessment of orthodontic need is difficult by self-examination alone; 3D intraoral scanning and cephalometric analysis are recommended.
Consultations are available by calling +82 31 855 7528.
- Q. How should I care for myself after treatment?
The most important step after orthodontic treatment is wearing your retainer. The standard recommendation is full-time wear for the first six months to one year, transitioning to nighttime-only wear thereafter; lifetime nighttime wear is advised in some reported protocols.
Regular check-ups every three to six months to monitor tooth alignment and occlusal status are advisable.
The risk of relapse without retainer use will be thoroughly explained during initial consultation.
Next step
When Teeth Are Misaligned, start with a diagnosis.
Online consultations are accepted 24/7, with responses within one business day. If you'd like to learn how treatment works, visit our treatment guide page.