01What is orthodontics
Orthodontic treatment corrects malocclusion and aligns the teeth to improve chewing function and aesthetics.
The medical term for orthodontic treatment is Orthodontics, a dental specialty that diagnoses and treats disharmony among the teeth, alveolar bone, and jaws. It’s not simply about "making pretty teeth," but about comprehensively improving chewing function, oral hygiene, jaw joint balance, speech, and aesthetics through medical treatment.
Types of malocclusion requiring orthodontic treatment
| Types | Condition | Treatment complexity |
|---|---|---|
| Crowding | Teeth overlap and look 'crooked' | ★~★★★ (varies by severity) |
| Spacing | Gaps between teeth | ★~★★ |
| Bimaxillary protrusion | Upper and lower teeth both protrude forward | ★★★~★★★★ (extractions may be needed) |
| Underbite (Class III) | Lower jaw comes forward; underbite | ★★★~★★★★★ (may require surgery) |
| Class II (small chin, protrusive upper teeth) | Upper teeth much farther forward than the lowers | ★★★~★★★★ |
| Open bite | Upper and lower front teeth do not meet | ★★★★~★★★★★ |
| Deep bite | Upper teeth cover the lower teeth deeply | ★★~★★★ |
| Crossbite | Some upper and lower teeth are reversed in position | ★★~★★★★ |
02Comparison of orthodontic options (4 main options)
We compare the four most commonly used orthodontic methods using objective criteria.
| Category | Metal braces | Ceramic braces | Lingual (tongue-side) braces | Clear aligners (Invisalign) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Placement | Outside of teeth | Outside of teeth | Inside (tongue side) of teeth | Removable clear aligners |
| Aesthetics | ★★ (noticeable) | ★★★★ (tooth-colored) | ★★★★★ (hardly visible) | ★★★★★ (hardly visible) |
| Treatment effectiveness | ★★★★★ (most effective) | ★★★★ (slightly slower than metal) | ★★★★ (high difficulty) | ★★★ (suitable for simple to moderate cases) |
| Treatment duration | 18~30 months | 20~32 months | 24~36 months | 10~24 months |
| Cost (both arches) | approx. 2,500,000–4,000,000 KRW (approx. $1,825–$2,920) | approx. 3,500,000–5,000,000 KRW (approx. $2,555–$3,650) | approx. 7,000,000–15,000,000 KRW (approx. $5,110–$10,950) | approx. 5,000,000–9,000,000 KRW (approx. $3,650–$6,570) |
| Eating restrictions | Yes (chewy/tough foods are difficult) | Yes | Yes | None (remove the appliance to eat) |
| Oral hygiene care | Difficult | Difficult | Very difficult | Easy (remove the appliance to brush) |
| Pain/Discomfort | Moderate | Moderate | Most severe (tongue irritation) | Mild |
| Speech impact | Almost none | Almost none | Significant (3–4 weeks to adapt) | Mild (1–2 weeks to adapt) |
How to choose the right orthodontic option for you
- Students/teens who prioritize cost and want proven results: Metal braces
- Adults who want a reasonable cost and some esthetics: Ceramic braces
- Professionals who must keep treatment invisible at work (broadcasting/service jobs): Lingual braces
- Convenient removal · Mild malocclusion · Frequent overseas travel: Clear aligners (Invisalign)
- Complex malocclusion · Protrusion cases requiring extraction: Prefer metal or lingual braces first (some cases have limits with clear aligners)
"Are clear aligners possible in every case?"
No. Clear aligners (Invisalign, etc.) are best for mild to moderate malocclusion, and may have limitations for severe protrusion, extraction cases, complex rotations, or severe open bite. Accurately determining during diagnosis whether clear aligners are appropriate is a core skill of an orthodontist. Also, because patients must wear them at least 22 hours per day for effectiveness, fixed braces may be more suitable if consistent self-care is difficult.
03Orthodontic Fees (2026)
Orthodontic treatment is generally non-covered (out-of-pocket), but certain congenital conditions (such as cleft lip/palate) are covered by Korean NHIS.
Key orthodontic fees (both arches, 2026 average)
| Type | Typical fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Metal braces | Approx. 2,500,000–4,000,000 KRW (approx. $1,825–$2,920) | Most affordable |
| Ceramic braces (ceramic brackets only) | Approx. 3,500,000–5,000,000 KRW (approx. $2,555–$3,650) | Balance of esthetics and cost |
| Self-ligating metal braces (e.g., Damon) | Approx. 3,500,000–5,000,000 KRW (approx. $2,555–$3,650) | Can shorten treatment time |
| Self-ligating ceramic braces | Approx. 4,500,000–6,500,000 KRW (approx. $3,285–$4,745) | Esthetics + efficiency |
| Lingual braces (e.g., Incognito) | Approx. 7,000,000–15,000,000 KRW (approx. $5,110–$10,950) | Not visible; most expensive |
| Partial lingual braces (front teeth only on the inside) | Approx. 5,000,000–9,000,000 KRW (approx. $3,650–$6,570) | Cost-saving option |
| Clear aligners (Invisalign Full) | Approx. 5,000,000–9,000,000 KRW (approx. $3,650–$6,570) | Full case |
| Clear aligners (Invisalign Lite/Express) | Approx. 2,500,000–5,000,000 KRW (approx. $1,825–$3,650) | Simple case |
| Korean clear aligners | Approx. 3,000,000–6,000,000 KRW (approx. $2,190–$4,380) | More affordable than overseas brands |
| Single-arch orthodontics (upper or lower only) | About 60~70% of the cost of treating both arches | For cases where only one arch has malocclusion |
Potential additional fees
- Diagnostic fees (CT, cephalometric, models): about 100,000~300,000 KRW (approx. $73~$219)
- Extraction fee (if needed): Simple extraction 50,000 KRW~ (approx. $36~) / Impacted Wisdom Tooth extraction 300,000~500,000 KRW (approx. $219~$365) (covered by Korean NHIS)
- Miniscrew (orthodontic anchorage screw), 1 unit: about 100,000~300,000 KRW (approx. $73~$219), typically 2~6 are used
- Retainer: about 100,000~300,000 KRW (approx. $73~$219) (both arches, removable)
- Fixed retainer (lingual anterior wire): about 50,000~150,000 KRW (approx. $36~$110)
- Orthognathic (jaw) surgery: about 15,000,000~30,000,000 KRW (approx. $10,950~$21,900) (partial coverage by Korean NHIS with registered disability status)
Paying for orthodontic treatment in installments is standard
You typically do not pay the full orthodontic fee at once. In most cases, 50% at the start of treatment, and the remainder in installments over the treatment period (usually 18~24 months)is common. Some clinics also offer 12~24-month interest-free credit card plans. Please confirm exact payment options during your consultation. Due to advertising regulations, the phrase "event discount" is restricted; exact fees are provided after diagnosis.
Fees vary by clinic, malocclusion complexity, appliances used, and whether extractions are needed. Your exact out-of-pocket cost will be explained after diagnosis during consultation.
04Orthodontic treatment process
Orthodontic treatment typically takes 18~30 months and requires regular visits (usually every 4~6 weeks).
Step 1: Comprehensive diagnosis (1~2 visits, about 1~2 hours total)
- Oral exam + photos (frontal, profile, and intraoral)
- Panoramic X-ray + cephalometric X-ray (lateral skull radiograph)
- Dental CT (as needed, to assess impacted teeth/palatal area)
- Impressions or intraoral scanner to create a digital model
- After analysis/diagnosis, establish the treatment plan (consultation usually 2~3 weeks later)
Step 2: Pre-treatment (as needed, 2~6 weeks)
- Scaling (Dental Cleaning) (to improve gum condition)
- Extractions (for protrusion or severe crowding; typically 2~4 premolars)
- Impacted Wisdom Tooth extraction (to create space for orthodontics)
- Cavity treatment and Root Canal Treatment (to optimize oral health)
Step 3: Appliance placement (1~2 visits)
- Fixed orthodontics (metal, ceramic, lingual): brackets bonded to teeth + wire connection
- Clear aligners: deliver first set + place attachments
- For the first 1~2 weeks after placement, mild pain/foreign-body sensation is common; manage with pain relievers.
Step 4: Active orthodontic treatment (12~30 months)
- Regular visit every 4~6 weeks: Wire replacement or adjustment; for clear aligners, receive the next stage of aligners
- Total number of visits: average 20~30
- Mid-treatment check: assess progress with CT or photos
- The expected completion time is re-evaluated every 6 months (varies widely by individual)
Step 5: Appliance removal + retainer (long-term)
- Remove fixed appliance (about 1~2 hours)
- Polish off residual adhesive + Scaling (Dental Cleaning)
- Take impressions for the retainer → fit it 1 week later
- First 6 months~1 year: wear almost 24 hours a day
- After that: wear only at night (recommended for life)
If you don’t wear your retainer, relapse will occur
Teeth moved by orthodontic treatment tend to shift back toward their original position over time—this is called "relapse." The first 1~2 years are the riskiest; if you neglect retainer wear during this period, 1~2 years of effort can be lost. Retainer costs are usually included in the overall orthodontic fee, but if a retainer is lost or broken, a remake fee will apply. Retainers are your "lifelong friend"With that in mind, the safest plan is to wear it consistently—at least at night.
05Adult orthodontics — when you think it might be too late
Recently, about 40% of orthodontic patients are adults. Treatment in your 30s, 40s, and 50s is fully possible, and well-planned adult orthodontics has very high satisfaction.
Features of adult orthodontics
| Category | Adolescent orthodontics (ages 12~18) | Adult orthodontics (19 years and older) |
|---|---|---|
| Rate of tooth movement | Faster (leverages growth) | Somewhat slower (usually about 6 more months) |
| Skeletal changes | Possible (can be influenced by jaw growth) | Limited (surgery may be needed) |
| Gum and bone condition | Healthy | Variable (if gum disease is present, management is essential) |
| Aesthetic expectations | Relatively low | High (ceramic, lingual, or clear options preferred) |
| Patient cooperation | Highly variable | High (self-motivated decision) |
| Treatment satisfaction | High | Very high (sense of accomplishment from personal choice) |
Common adult orthodontic cases
- Crowding (overlapped teeth): If you missed orthodontics during your school years; improves brushing access and esthetics
- Protruding front teeth: Orthodontics with extractions can improve the lip profile (usually 2~4 premolars extracted)
- Spacing (gaps) between teeth: Close with tooth movement or combine with Laminate Veneer
- Orthodontics before Dental Implant or prosthetic treatment: Align a collapsed bite to extend the lifespan of restorations
- Malocclusion after gum disease: Move teeth shifted by gum disease back into place (proceed after Gum (Periodontal) Treatment)
- Night guard and TMJ (Jaw Joint) patients: Improve bite imbalance
Important considerations for adult orthodontics
- Gum health evaluation is essential: If gum disease is active, Gum (Periodontal) Treatment takes priority before orthodontics
- Slightly increased risk of root resorption: Regular monitoring is required
- Treatment time is somewhat longer: On average, about 6 more months than adolescents
- Be prudent with extraction decisions: In adults, space closure after extraction is slower
- Lifelong retainer wear is recommended: Adults have a greater tendency to relapse
"Is it okay to get orthodontic treatment at my age?"
If your gums and jawbone are healthy, age is not a limiting factor for orthodontics. Even patients in their 60s can be good candidates. However, beyond simple esthetics, chewing function, gum-disease prevention, and jaw joint balancealso need to be assessed comprehensively. It’s better to ask "Do I need it?" rather than "Am I too late?" During diagnosis, we evaluate the condition of the gums, jawbone, and roots comprehensively to determine suitability.
06Orthodontic discomfort and daily life
Orthodontics is a major "once in a lifetime" decision, but it does not make daily life difficult. However, an adjustment period and ongoing care are needed.
Timing and intensity of discomfort
| Timing | Pain intensity | Features |
|---|---|---|
| First 3~5 days after appliance placement | ★★★ (most intense) | Difficulty chewing; manage with pain relievers |
| 1~2 weeks | ★★ (gradual improvement) | Soft foods, adjustment period |
| After that, 1–3 days after each regular adjustment | ★~★★ | Mild soreness each time the wire is changed or adjusted |
| Stable phase of treatment | ★ (almost none) | Lip and cheek sores: use orthodontic wax |
Eating precautions
Foods to avoid (fixed braces):
- Hard foods: whole nuts, ice, hard candy, dried squid
- Sticky foods: sticky rice cakes, caramel, gum, taffy
- Chewy foods: whole pieces of kimchi, ribs (on the bone), dried fish jerky
- Foods with seeds: sesame seeds, melon seeds (get lodged between brackets and wires)
Helpful eating tips:
- Cut apples and pears into small pieces
- Cut meat into small, bite-size pieces
- Cut noodles and pasta into shorter lengths
- For clear aligners: remove to eat, brush after eating → reinsert the aligners
Oral hygiene care (most important)
- Brush after every meal: Use an orthodontic toothbrush to clean carefully around the brackets
- Use an interdental brush daily: Remove food debris under the wire
- Oral irrigator (Waterpik): Highly recommended; complements brushing
- Fluoride mouth rinse: Prevents cavities; once daily
- Regular Scaling (Dental Cleaning): More often than usual (once every 3–4 months)
Adapting to daily life
- Speech: Slightly awkward for the first 1–2 weeks; you’ll adapt quickly
- Sports: For intense contact sports, a mouthguard is recommended
- Playing wind instruments: allow 1–2 weeks to adapt
- Travel: Carry orthodontic wax and a travel-size oral care kit
The most common mistake during orthodontic treatment — "neglecting brushing"
The biggest regret is "I got cavities and my gums worsened because I neglected brushing." If plaque builds up around brackets, permanent white spots (decalcification), cavities, and gum disease can occur, reducing the effectiveness of treatment. During orthodontic treatment, you must brush "twice as carefully as usual"That mindset is essential. For the first month, we recommend brushing in front of a mirror for 30 minutes each day.
07Retainers — your lifelong friend
They are the "final stage" of orthodontics and the most important. Retainer care continues for life.
Types of retainers
| Type | Features | Cost | Pros and cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Removable clear retainer (Invisalign Vivera) | Removable, clear | Approx. 150,000–300,000 KRW (approx. $110–$219) (both arches) | Excellent aesthetics; easy to misplace |
| Removable Hawley retainer | Acrylic + metal wire | Approx. 100,000–200,000 KRW (approx. $73–$146) (both arches) | Durable; slightly visible |
| Fixed retainer (bonded wire behind the front teeth) | Permanently bonded behind the front teeth | Approx. 50,000–150,000 KRW (approx. $37–$110) (single arch) | No need to remove; hygiene is harder to maintain |
Recommended retainer wear schedule
- 0–6 months: Nearly 24 hours except during meals and brushing (22 or more hours per day)
- 6–12 months: Nighttime plus part of the day (12–16 hours per day)
- 1–2 years: Nighttime only (8 or more hours)
- After 2 years: 3–5 nights per week (recommended for life)
Retainer care
- Brush daily with a toothbrush (use low-abrasive toothpaste)
- Soak in denture cleaner once a week
- Avoid hot water (risk of warping)
- If lost or damaged, remake promptly (relapse can occur even after 1–2 weeks without wearing)
- Check-ups every 6–12 months (to monitor bite changes)
“I stopped wearing my retainer and my teeth shifted again” is the most common regret
Orthodontists hear this regret the most. The first 1–2 years after treatment are the riskiest; neglecting retainer wear during this period can reduce your results by over 50%. Re-treatment usually takes longer and costs more than the first time.A retainer is a safety device that prevents the teeth’s “memory” from pulling them backso it should stay with you for life.
08Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled the questions patients ask most about orthodontics.
Q.Do you always need tooth extractions for orthodontics?
No. Whether extractions are needed depends on how severe the malocclusion is.When crowding is mild or there are spaces between the teethcan be done without extractions. Conversely, severe protrusion or severe crowdingmay require extractions (usually 2~4 premolars). In recent years, using miniscrews has made it possible to manage difficult cases without extractions. Decide after diagnosis and a thorough discussion with your doctor.
Q.Can clear aligners treat all malocclusions?
No. Clear aligners (Invisalign, etc.) are best for mild to moderate malocclusionsand in the following situations, fixed braces may be more effective: ① severe protrusion or cases requiring extractions, ② teeth needing significant rotation, ③ severe open bite or crossbite, ④ when wearing them 22 hours a day is difficult for the patient. Your doctor will determine eligibility at the time of diagnosis.
Q.I became pregnant during orthodontic treatment. Can I continue?
Orthodontic treatment itself is possible during pregnancy. However, keep these in mind: ① Morning sickness can make brushing difficult, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease; ② Avoid X-ray imaging when possible or minimize it with shielding; ③ Hormonal changes can cause gum inflammation; ④ Extractions or surgery are best done in the stable period (4~6 months). Let your orthodontist know you are pregnant in advance, and schedule checkups more frequently than usual for safety.
Q.Can I switch dentists during orthodontic treatment?
It’s possible but not recommended. Orthodontics is safest when one orthodontist carries out a consistent diagnosis and treatment plan from start to finish. If you must switch: ① Obtain your records (X-rays, models, treatment plan) from the current clinic, ② Undergo a fresh diagnosis at the new clinic, ③ Settle any remaining treatment fees (payment policies vary by clinic). Unless moving or in other unavoidable situations, it’s best to choose your clinic carefully from the start.
Q.Will my face look smaller after orthodontic treatment?
If a patient with protrusion undergoes extraction-based orthodontic treatment the lips can move inward, creating the appearance of a smaller facemay occur. However, it’s not that the face actually becomes smaller; it’s the effect of the lips moving inward. If no extractions are done or if the skeletal structure is large, there may be little change. Changes to the cheekbones or jawbone are difficult with orthodontics alone and, if needed, require orthognathic (double-jaw) surgery.
Q.I’m worried my teeth will become crooked again after treatment.
That concern is valid. The first 1~2 years after orthodontic treatment carry the highest risk of relapse, and consistent retainer wear is essential. Developing a lifelong habit of at least occasional nighttime wearis the safest approach. Also, as the 4th Wisdom Tooth comes in, it can press on the front teeth and cause relapse, so it’s best to have your Wisdom Teeth evaluated after completing treatment.
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