“What if the braces are visible, should I be careful about smiling?” This is one of the most common questions I get from patients. Smiling is much more than just a matter of appearance for each of us—it is related to identity, interaction, and presentation. The idea of visible braces may therefore be even more concerning than other aspects of treatment.

The good news is that modern orthodontic treatment offers more options than ever before. In some cases, the braces are so inconspicuous that no one even notices them. In other situations, patients want to emphasize it as part of their personal style. There is no need to hide your smile—on the contrary, orthodontic treatment can make it even more attractive and confident.

What options are available? 
Orthodontic treatment is no longer just metal braces, which many people remember from their childhood. Nowadays, transparent aligners are used, for example, which are almost invisible and can be removed during meals, among other things. There are also aesthetic fixed braces with brackets that are the same color as the teeth and blend in with the smile.
And yes – traditional metal braces are still in use, but nowadays you can customize them with colors and other options. Braces brackets are also available in ceramic, which makes them blend in better with the color of your teeth.
In certain situations, children and young people may be prescribed orthodontic braces, which are only worn at home in the evenings and at night, so that their friends are unaware that they are undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Can orthodontic braces become part of your style?
If you follow social media, you may have noticed that in many countries, braces are even considered fashionable accessories and “lifestyle symbols.” Braces are proudly displayed and perceived as part of a confident and caring style. In some places, it is even trendy to wear “fake braces” – accessories that have no therapeutic value. Of course, these carry significant health risks and should not be confused with real orthodontic treatment. However, this phenomenon shows that orthodontic treatment is something to strive for and no longer something to be ashamed of. In orthodontic treatment performed by a qualified orthodontist, the appliance can be either inconspicuous or boldly visible – but it is always safe and effective.

Can the appearance of braces be tuned?
If we decide on fixed orthodontic appliances, such as braces, you have many options for influencing their appearance. The rubber bands around the brackets are available in many different colors and can be changed as treatment progresses. This means that the appliance can be as inconspicuous as you want it to be – or it can be visible and reflect your own style.
Straightening doesn’t take away your smile – it gives you more confidence
So if you are wondering whether the appliance will be visible, the answer is yes – but only as much as you want it to be. With modern orthodontic treatment, there is no need to hide your smile; you can show it off more freely than ever before. Together, we will find a solution that suits your goals and lifestyle.

Want a consultation for orthodontic treatment in Helsinki?
During your appointment, I will assess your situation and recommend the device that is right for you. Often, the consultation alone is enough to confirm that treatment can be carried out in a way that supports both a functional bite and a confident smile. Choose your preferred specialist appointment time here.

I myself have undergone orthodontic treatment as an adult. That story is definitely worth its own blog post, but because of my adult orthodontic treatment, in addition to the hundreds of orthodontic treatments I have performed, I also have expertise in answering an important and recurring question from patients during consultations: “Does this treatment hurt?”

Dr. Anna Iivari before her own orthodontic treatment, explaining potential discomforts from braces and clear aligners.

Pain is always a personal experience. However, if you are being sold completely painless orthodontic treatment, this may not be entirely true. For children and adolescents, orthodontic treatment sometimes uses removable appliances that can be totally painless, but orthodontic treatment for adults is rarely painless. Orthodontic treatment almost always causes sensations that can be described as aching, pain, throbbing, or at least a feeling of pressure.

During consultations, I always want to be open about what orthodontic treatment involves and what we can do to make the experience as pleasant as possible and avoid any unnecessary surprises.

What kind of pain can orthodontic treatment cause?
In orthodontic treatment, controlled force is applied to the teeth to move them into the correct position. This may cause slight soreness or aching at first, especially in the early stages of treatment or when the orthodontic appliance is adjusted or the orthodontic aligners are changed. The sensation is not continuous and usually eases within a few days. Most people describe the sensation as more of a “pressure” than pain.

How can orthodontic pain be relieved?
Orthodontic treatment is our joint project, so you are not alone with your feelings. Discomfort can be alleviated effectively with the following methods:

• Mild painkillers (e.g. ibuprofen or paracetamol) if necessary
• Preferring soft foods during the first few days after adjusting the device
• Adding wax to the orthodontic device if the mucous membranes in your mouth become irritated
• Adequate rest and careful oral hygiene, which help adaptation

Why is the experience of pain during orthodontic treatment individual?
Everyone reacts differently. For some, the sensation is almost imperceptible, while for others it is more noticeable at first. The experience is influenced by factors such as age, the needed movement of the teet, as well as individual sensitivity to pain. The most important thing is to acknowledge that this sensation is part of the treatment—it means that your teeth are actually moving and the treatment is progressing.

Why is orthodontic treatment worthwhile despite possible discomfort?
Orthodontic treatment is always an investment in the future. Temporary discomfort is part of the process, but the result is an improved occlusion, easier teeth cleaning, as well as better health and appearance for the rest of your life. When treatment is carried out under the supervision of an experienced specialist dentist, any difficulties are kept under control and the end result is safe and long-lasting.

Safe orthodontic treatment in the hands of a skilled specialist dentist
Orthodontic treatment can sometimes feel uncomfortable, but that shouldn’t be a barrier to starting treatment. My job is to make sure that every step is taken together and safely. Most people are surprised at how quickly they get used to the treatment—and how wonderful it is to see their smile change day by day.

Private consultation for orthodontic treatment in Helsinki
During your appointment, I will assess your situation and explain what you can expect from your treatment. Any discomfort during treatment will not prevent us from achieving our goals, but is simply part of our journey towards a functional bite and a beautiful smile. You can book an orthodontic specialist appointment in Helsinki here.