Orthodontics for adults

Why adults see an orthodontist

Adults come to us for reasons such as:

• crowded teeth, or teeth that have shifted over the years
• front teeth that stick out, or a gap between two teeth
• teeth that have moved again after earlier treatment
• preparing for a crown or an implant, at your dentist’s request

Orthodontic treatment can:

• make brushing and cleaning between the teeth easier
• help prevent gum problems and bone loss around the teeth
• improve chewing
• improve the appearance of your teeth

Clear aligners or ceramic braces

Both move the teeth gradually, but they are worn differently.

Clear aligners (Invisalign, Spark, Angel)

Custom-made trays of clear plastic. You wear them day and night and take them out to eat and to brush your teeth. Adults often choose them because they are discreet.

Ceramic braces

Small tooth-coloured brackets bonded to the front of the teeth and joined by a wire. They stay in place for the whole treatment.

Which one suits you depends on how your teeth need to move and on your preferences. We discuss it at the first consultation. See also our page on clear aligners.

Working with your dentist

Adults have often had fillings, crowns or implants, and their gums have sometimes receded. The treatment plan takes this into account.

Your gums need to be healthy before any teeth are moved. If they need treatment, this is done first, by your dentist or a gum specialist. We work with your dentist and, when needed, with other specialists.

Orthodontics and jaw surgery

When the upper and lower jaws are out of line, moving the teeth is not always enough. Jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) may then be needed.

This is done once growth is complete. The practice carries out the orthodontic treatment before and after the operation, together with your maxillofacial surgeon. Before surgery, orthodontics lines up the teeth so they will meet properly once the jaws are repositioned. Afterwards, it fine-tunes their position.

In children, treating some jaw problems during growth can sometimes avoid surgery: see orthodontics for children.

How treatment works

Dr Michael Taieb, dentist and specialist in orthodontics, plans and oversees your treatment, in English or French.

First consultation

An examination and a conversation about what you would like to correct. It costs CHF 105, and you can book online or by phone.

Records

Photos, X-rays and digital impressions, used to draw up the treatment plan.

Treatment plan and estimate

We take you through the plan and give you a written estimate, with no obligation.

Fitting

We bond your braces or give you your first set of aligners.

Check-ups

Regular appointments to follow how the teeth are moving.

Retainer

At the end of treatment, a retainer helps keep the teeth in place. If it breaks or no longer fits, call the practice.

Treatment time, cost and insurance

Treatment time depends on how far the teeth need to move, the appliance and, with aligners, how consistently you wear them. We give you an estimate at the first consultation.

The cost depends on how complex the treatment is, how long it lasts and the appliance. You receive a written estimate before you start, and you can pay in instalments.

Dr Taieb is recognised by invalidity insurance (AI) and supplementary health insurers. For the SSO tariff, see our fees.