As a lecturer in the Department of Orthodontics at the University of Medicine & Pharmacy in Ho Chi Minh City (UMP), Dr. Bich Van explained that orthodontics can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life. She also introduced some popular orthodontic methods.

Orthodontics’ benefits

First, orthodontics helps patients increase their confidence. Crooked teeth can make many people self-conscious and reluctant to smile. A set of even, beautiful teeth not only enhance your smile but also brings balance and harmony to your facial features and boosts confidence in communication.

Next, orthodontics contributes to protecting oral health. People with crooked or misaligned teeth are more prone to food getting stuck between their teeth while chewing. These hard-to-clean areas lead to plaque and food accumulation, increasing the risk of tooth decay, gingivitis, and, more seriously, tooth pulp death, periodontitis, loose teeth, and tooth loss. Straighter teeth are easier to clean, helping limit problems like tooth decay and gingivitis, keeping the mouth fresh and improving chewing function.

Orthodontics also improve chewing function and overall health. Dr. Bich Van explains that properly positioned teeth help distribute chewing forces evenly, reduce excessive tooth wear, and minimize the risk of tooth fractures.

In contrast, crooked teeth and misaligned bites can make chewing difficult, affect pronunciation, and even lead to temporomandibular joint disorders. When chewing function improves, so does the digestive system and overall body health.

“In general, orthodontics is not just a journey to improve your smile but also brings confidence, better oral health, and long-term overall well-being,” Dr. Bich Van said.

Popular orthodontic methods

According to Dr. Bich Van, the two most popular orthodontic methods today are traditional braces and clear aligners. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages.

Traditional braces have been a reliable option for decades. They use a system of brackets and wires to move teeth into the correct position. However, during treatment, braces can affect aesthetics and may cause scratches or irritation to the lips, cheeks, and surrounding tongue.

Additionally, patients must follow strict oral hygiene guidelines, as food often gets stuck in the braces and wires. They also need to avoid certain foods, such as sticky candies or hard items, to prevent damage to the braces.

Clear aligners, a modern orthodontic solution, offer maximum comfort. Made of transparent plastic, these aligners fit snugly over the teeth and gently move them into the correct position.

“This method is not only highly aesthetic and comfortable but also easy to remove for eating and cleaning, helping maintain normal living habits,” Dr. Bich Van said.

Moreover, with clear aligners, orthodontists only need to conduct checkups every 6-8 weeks, making it an ideal choice for international students, overseas Vietnamese, and those with limited time for monthly visits.

“This is the perfect choice for those seeking orthodontic treatment that is barely noticeable and almost invisible, without disrupting their studies, work, or daily life,” Dr. Bich Van added.

Invisalign clear aligners are made from proprietary SmartTrack material, which provides gentle, continuous force to move teeth effectively. According to Dr. Bich Van, this material helps teeth move as expected while ensuring patient comfort during treatment.

With Invisalign treatment, both doctors and patients can visualize the treatment results in advance. Thanks to 3D imaging technology, doctors create personalized treatment plans for each patient. Additionally, patients’ orthodontic processes are closely monitored by their doctors to ensure each step of the tooth movement goes as planned.

Invisalign treatments are personalized, based on over 27 years of research and data from more than 19 million patients worldwide.

Doctors design personalized treatment plans for patients via 3D imaging. Photo courtesy of Quoc An Dental Clinic

Dr. Bich Van emphasized that Invisalign offers a gentle, delicate orthodontic experience. With Invisalign, patients can enjoy their treatment journey while pursuing personal interests, dreams, and careers without interruption.

The treatment process includes:

– Examination and consultation: First, the doctor conducts a general examination, takes X-rays, and provides a consultation to determine the best treatment plan and orthodontic method for each patient.

– Digital dental impression: The patient’s dental impressions are scanned using advanced software to create a detailed treatment plan.

– Treatment plan simulation: ClinCheck 3D software helps both the doctor and patient visualize the future smile and final teeth positions.

– Aligner production: Once the treatment plan is approved, aligners are manufactured in a few weeks, and patients will change aligners periodically as guided by the doctor.

– Periodic follow-up: The doctor monitors the patient’s progress and makes adjustments as needed to ensure the best results.

– Completion and retainer use: After achieving the desired results, the patient wears a retainer to maintain the results and keep their smile radiant.

Dr. Tran Thi Bich Van is an experienced specialist in orthodontics, with nearly 20 years of practice in general dentistry and orthodontics specifically. She has been a lecturer in the Department of Orthodontics at the University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Ho Chi Minh City for over 15 years. an is also a member of the Ho Chi Minh City Orthodontic Association (HAO) and the World Federation of Orthodontists (WFO).

To schedule a consultation for Invisalign braces or other dental services, patients can contact Dr. Van and Quoc An Dental Clinic here.