Orthodontics
Using precise examination with the iTero intraoral scanner, we recommend the orthodontic approach that suits each patient.
- You are concerned about your teeth alignment or bite, or you are considering treatment but are not sure which method would suit you
Talk to us any time.
Orthodontic treatment straightens your teeth and improves your bite, improving both oral health and appearance. 高田馬場歯科・矯正歯科 offers a wide range of orthodontic treatments centered on clear aligners (Invisalign), along with wire braces, partial orthodontic treatment, and children’s orthodontics. Using precise examination with the iTero intraoral scanner and hearing about your lifestyle and preferences, we recommend the treatment plan that suits you best.
Table of Contents
What sets our orthodontic treatment apart
Precise intraoral scanning with iTero
We take dental impressions using the iTero intraoral scanner. Unlike the traditional method of putting a clay-like impression material in your mouth, this simply passes a camera over your teeth to record your alignment as 3D data, which is easier on patients. The scanned data can also be used for a digital simulation, letting you see what the finished result will look like before treatment begins.
A certified clinic offering Invisalign up to the Premium plan
We offer Invisalign treatment up to the Premium package. Invisalign plans differ in how complex a case they can handle, and Premium is the plan that can address a wide range of difficult cases. From the Lite plan, for mild cosmetic improvement, to the Premium plan, aimed at improving function across the whole mouth, we offer options to match each patient’s condition and wishes.
Even among patients who want orthodontic treatment, many are not sure whether Invisalign suits their case. Please start with a free first consultation and talk to us.
Orthodontic treatment as part of prevention
Straightening your teeth does more than change how they look. When teeth overlap or twist, a toothbrush cannot reach them as easily, and plaque builds up more readily. This is known to raise the risk of cavities and periodontal disease. Straightening your teeth also helps lower these risks, contributing to long-term oral health.
We do not view orthodontic treatment in isolation, but recommend it alongside general and preventive dentistry. To improve stability after treatment, we also continue to check how well you are using your retainer after your braces come off.
Risks of misaligned teeth
Problems with tooth alignment are not just a matter of appearance; they can affect your mouth and your whole body in various ways.
Risk of cavities and periodontal disease
When teeth overlap or twist, the bristles of a toothbrush cannot reach as easily, leaving more spots unbrushed. The resulting build-up of plaque raises the risk of cavities and periodontal disease, and can also cause bad breath.
Effects on the whole body
A misaligned bite can make it harder to chew food completely, adding strain to your stomach and intestines. Ongoing uneven pressure on the jaw muscles and joints can also show up as shoulder stiffness or headaches.
Psychological effects
It is not unusual for self-consciousness about tooth alignment to lead people to hide their smile or hesitate to speak in front of others. As orthodontic treatment straightens your teeth, this kind of psychological change can improve too.
Cases we treat and types of treatment
Crowding
This is when teeth overlap and sit unevenly. Also known as crooked teeth, it is one of the most common types of misalignment. It leaves more spots unbrushed and raises the risk of cavities and periodontal disease.
Spacing
This is when there are gaps between teeth, sometimes called a gap-tooth smile. It is common among people bothered by a gap between the front teeth.
Protruding front teeth
This is when the upper front teeth jut forward, sometimes called buck teeth. Because the mouth can become harder to close, it can also lead to a dry mouth or bad breath.
Underbite
This is when the lower front teeth sit forward of the upper front teeth, sometimes called an underbite. It easily affects the bite and can make it hard to bite through food.
Open bite
This is when the front teeth stay apart even with the back teeth closed together. Because the front teeth cannot bite through food, many people find eating difficult.
Deep bite
This is when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth excessively. Also described as a deep bite, it tends to place greater strain on the jaw joint.
Cases with a major skeletal issue that are judged to need surgical orthodontics (jaw surgery) can be difficult for us to treat. We carry out a thorough examination at your first consultation and give you appropriate guidance.
Types of orthodontic treatment
Clear aligners (Invisalign)
This method moves your teeth by having you switch between a series of clear, thin aligners. Because it uses no metal hardware, it is hard to notice, and you can take it out to eat or brush your teeth. It can handle everything from mild cases to difficult ones, and we offer plans up to Premium.
Partial clear aligner treatment
This is clear aligner treatment limited to a specific area, such as the front teeth. Because it covers a smaller area than full treatment, it can sometimes reduce cost and treatment time. We check beforehand that it will not affect your bite before recommending it.
Children’s orthodontics (Invisalign First, Preortho)
This treatment uses a child’s jaw growth to secure space for incoming teeth while straightening the bite. Addressing this properly during the growth period can sometimes reduce the need for full orthodontic treatment later on.
| Treatment | Features | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Clear aligners (Invisalign) | Clear and hard to notice, removable | Patients concerned about appearance, or who want to be treated while working or in school |
| Partial orthodontic treatment | Straightens just the area you are concerned about, such as the front teeth | Patients who only want to improve one area, or who want to keep cost and treatment time down |
| Children’s orthodontics (Invisalign First, Preortho, etc.) | Early treatment that uses growth | Children who still have baby teeth, or whose permanent teeth have not fully come in |
Learn more about clear aligners (Invisalign)
Treatment process
First consultation (free)
We ask about your current concerns with your teeth and what you hope for from treatment. We also explain the types of orthodontic treatment and their cost, so please feel free to come in even if you have not decided on treatment yet. The consultation is free.
Precise examination and diagnosis
We carry out a precise examination using X-rays and an iTero intraoral scan. Based on the data gathered, we draw up the treatment approach that suits you best.
Explaining the treatment plan
Based on the examination results, we explain the treatment approach, time, and cost in detail. For clear aligner treatment, you can also see a 3D simulation of what the finished result will look like.
Starting treatment
We make aligners suited to your plan, or fit brackets and wires, and begin treatment. We track your progress with regular visits as treatment proceeds.
Retention and maintenance
Once your teeth are straight, you will wear a retainer to prevent them from shifting back. Using your retainer correctly is essential to keeping your teeth stable for the long term after treatment.
Price guide
Orthodontic plans
| Plan | Price (tax included) |
|---|---|
| Invisalign Lite | ¥495,000 |
| Invisalign Standard | ¥880,000 |
| Invisalign Premium | ¥1,012,000 |
Basic and optional costs
| Item | Price (tax included) |
|---|---|
| First consultation | Free |
| Precise examination fee | ¥44,000 |
| ClinCheck fee | ¥33,000 |
| Adjustment (per visit) | ¥3,300 |
| Retainer | ¥55,000 |
*All prices above are private-pay (not covered by insurance).
*A dental loan is also available to pay in installments.
Frequently asked questions
Does the orthodontic consultation cost anything?
Your first consultation is free. Please feel free to ask about any concerns with your teeth or questions about treatment. It is fine to come in even if you have not decided whether to go ahead with treatment.
Up to what age can I get orthodontic treatment?
Adults can also receive orthodontic treatment. As long as the bone supporting your teeth is in good condition, there is basically no age limit. However, if periodontal disease has progressed, we need to treat that first before considering orthodontic treatment. We will check the condition of your mouth before advising you.
Is orthodontic treatment painful?
Right after your appliance is fitted or adjusted, you may feel pressure or a dull ache as your teeth move. In most cases, this settles down within a few days. This varies from person to person, but clear aligner treatment generally causes less pain than wire braces.
Can my teeth shift back after orthodontic treatment?
After orthodontic treatment, you need to wear a retainer for a certain period to prevent your teeth from shifting back. If you neglect to wear your retainer, your teeth can try to return to their original position. We also check on your retainer use regularly after treatment, aiming for long-term stability.
Is orthodontic treatment covered by insurance?
In principle, it is private-pay (not covered by insurance). However, insurance may apply under certain conditions, such as when a skeletal issue requires surgical orthodontics. Please check the details at your first consultation. If you are concerned about cost, a dental loan is also available.
