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Dr. Paul O'Connell Explains Orthodontic Consultations At 3Dental - Orthodontic Treatments
Dr. Paul O'Connell Explains Orthodontic Consultations At 3Dental - Orthodontic Treatments
If you have crowded, crooked, or misaligned teeth, orthodontic treatments can help correct your dental issues and give you a confident smile.
What Is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a special branch of dentistry that focuses on fixing teeth and jaw alignment issues.
The process involves straightening crooked teeth, closing gaps, correcting bite problems, and aligning your jaws for better facial balance.
Here, we'll tell you everything you need to know about orthodontic treatment and what to expect.
How Do I Know If I Need Orthodontic Treatment?
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Christina Ryan Testimonial - Orthodontic Treatments
You can usually tell if you need orthodontic treatment just by looking at your teeth in the mirror. If you notice that your lower or upper teeth are crooked, crowded, or misaligned, you may be an ideal candidate for orthodontics.
Orthodontic treatment could also be a great alternative to jaw surgery if you have jaw irregularities, like an open bite.
To know for sure, book a free consultation at 3Dental and we'll help you determine whether you need orthodontic treatment or another type of dental service.
Book Your Free Consultation With Our Orthodontic Team
Book Your Free Orthodontic ConsultationPlease Select Your Nearest Location
How Does Orthodontic Treatment Work?
Orthodontic treatment works by moving teeth into the desired position by using one or more of the following appliances or fixed braces:
- Clear aligners (e.g. Invisalign or Spark aligners)
- Palate expanders or removable appliances
- Ceramic braces
- Metal braces (often called train tracks)
While traditional braces are still commonly used, aligners are becoming one of the most popular options since they're clear and can easily be removed for eating and cleaning.
What Happens During Orthodontic Treatment?
While each orthodontic treatment plan is different based on your specific orthodontic problems, you can expect to go through the following process:
| Process | Description |
|---|---|
| Initial consultation | In your initial consultation, your orthodontist will examine your teeth, discuss your concerns, and recommend a suitable treatment. |
| Planning | The planning appointment typically involves taking digital scans of your teeth and photos of your upper and lower jaw. |
| Receive your functional appliances | Now it's time to receive your removable or fixed appliances or aligners, which put pressure on the teeth to slowly move them into the desired positions over time. If you're getting braces, you can expect the bond-up to take from 20 to 45 minutes. |
| Monitoring | You will see your orthodontist every six weeks or so to monitor your progress and adjust your braces or receive new removable appliances. |
How To Take Care Of Teeth During An Orthodontic Treatment
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Sean Fitz's Smile Transformation
- 6 Month BracesWhen undergoing orthodontic treatment, regular sessions with your hygienist and excellent oral hygiene are essential.
Remember to brush your teeth using a recommended toothbrush and try to floss once a day.
Keep in mind that fixed braces are difficult to clean properly, so this extra attention is vital to prevent you from developing gum disease, tooth decay, and other issues.
If you have fixed braces, we recommend avoiding certain foods, like crisps, hard candies, and sticky foods.
Additionally, you should cut up firm foods, like apples and steaks, into small pieces before eating.
When you have finished your orthodontic treatment plan, you'll be given removable retainers that you should wear as often as possible to prevent your teeth from returning to their original position (we recommend 3 months day and night and nightly thereafter)
When Should I See An Orthodontist?
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See an orthodontist if you have any concerns about your bite or the position of your teeth.
Generally, we recommend first seeing your dentist for a full exam and then if necessary, they'll refer you to an orthodontist.
While orthodontic treatment can begin at any age, we typically recommend starting between ages 12 and 13, when most permanent teeth have emerged.
Early treatment of misaligned and crowded teeth often produces the best long-term results.
Adults can also achieve excellent outcomes with orthodontic treatment, so don't hesitate to schedule a consultation with us if you're interested in improving your smile.
Meet Your Orthodontic Team
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Dr Paul O'Connell
Practice Limited to Orthodontics
Read Bio)
Dr Paul O'Connell
Bachelor Dent. Sc. (Trinity College Dublin) 2004
Practice Limited to Orthodontics
Dr. O’Connell studied dentistry at Trinity College in Dublin, graduating in 2004. Prior to this, he studied and worked as a pharmacist.
Paul has also run his own highly successful dental surgery for over ten years in Limerick city and carries with him a wide range of knowledge and experience in all fields of dentistry.
Paul has trained extensively throughout Europe and the USA, learning various aspects of dentistry, most notably short-term and comprehensive orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry and endodontics (root canals).
He studied endodontics at the prestigious Eastman clinic, University College in London and Manchester University, before moving on to study at the top dental cosmetic clinics in Harley street, as well as abroad in Italy.
He trains constantly to improve his knowledge and skills in advanced dental techniques and enjoys applying them to help his patients get the very best in dental care.
Find out more about Paul O'Connell's role at 3Dental on his author page.
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Dr Paula Taracido
Practice Limited to Orthodontics
Read BioDr Paula Taracido
Bachelor Dent. Sc. (University of Santiago de Compostela (Galicia, Spain)) 2013
Practice Limited to Orthodontics
Paula graduated from the University of Santiago de Compostela (Galicia, Spain) in 2013 with a bachelor's degree in Dental Science.
She moved to Ireland in 2014 and has worked in private practices since then, maturing her skills in all areas of dentistry.
Since then, she developed a special interest in Orthodontics and enrolled in a 3-year masters in Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopaedics by the IDEOD institute in Seville, where she also became an Invisalign provider.
She joined the 3Dental team in 2017.
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Dr Sandra Montano
Specialist Orthodontist
Read BioDr Sandra Montano
Bachelor of Dental Science (BDS), University College Cork, Ireland. Master’s Degree in Orthodontics, Barcelona University, Spain. Postgraduate Certificate, Orthodontics and Orthopaedic Growth. PhD, TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) and Occlusion. Postgraduate Degree, Orofacial Pain and Temporomandibular Disorders.
Specialist Orthodontist
Dr Sandra Montano is a renowned Specialist Orthodontist, duly registered in both Ireland and Spain.
Excelling academically, Dr Montano distinguished herself as the top student of her year in dentistry, leading to an invitation to undertake a rigorous four-year full-time specialist training program in Orthodontics at Barcelona University. She excelled and graduated as the top student in her class, earning a Master's Degree in Orthodontics.
With over two decades of dedicated experience, Dr Montano specialises in the art of straightening teeth and enhancing facial appearance through Orthodontics and Orthopedic treatments. Her expertise is further enriched by numerous advanced qualifications, including a postgraduate certificate in Orthodontics and Orthopaedic growth in patients, a PhD in TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) and occlusion, and a postgraduate degree in Orofacial pain and Temporomandibular disorders.
Dr. Montano's illustrious career also includes a prestigious surgical orthodontics and jaw surgery residency under the mentorship of one of Spain's most esteemed Maxillofacial surgeons.
Based in South Dublin, she is a specialist orthodontist at 3Dental, where she has established a stellar reputation for delivering first-class results and superior orthopaedic care. As a Diamond II Invisalign provider, Dr. Montano brings extensive experience in all types of clear aligners, possessing profound insights into treatments for teens, children, and patients experiencing growth.
Dr Montano is not just a practitioner but also an active member of several leading professional bodies. Her involvement in the Orthodontic Society of Ireland (OSI), the Spanish Society of Orthodontics (SEDO), the European Orthodontic Society (EOS), the European Aligner Society (EAS), and the Pierre Fauchard Academy underscores her dedication to being at the forefront of the latest techniques and innovations in orthodontics. This commitment ensures she remains at the cutting edge, continually enhancing her expertise and shaping the future of orthodontic dental care.
Dr. Montano's commitment to excellence and comprehensive approach to patient care make her a venerated figure in orthodontics. She is trusted by patients and respected by peers for her depth of knowledge, innovative techniques, and incredible results.
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Dr Robert Price
General Dentist with a Focus on Aligners and Implants
Read BioDr Robert Price
BDS, University College Cork
General Dentist with a Focus on Aligners and Implants
Dr Bobby Price is a distinguished member of the 3Dental team, providing treatment in General Dentistry, Aligners, and Implants. Born and raised in Limerick, Dr Price began his career in the dental field as a dental nurse at 3Dental, gaining invaluable experience early on. He then pursued formal dental education at University College Cork, dedicating five years to studying Dentistry and receiving his Bachelor of Dental Science (BDS).
Dr Price has mastered delivering compassionate and skilled dental care throughout his education and professional development. His approach to dentistry is centred on creating a relaxed and caring environment for his patients, ensuring they feel at ease during their treatments.
Currently, Dr Price is completing his master's in Dental Implantology at Salford Manchester and has successfully completed hundreds of aligner cases, showcasing his commitment to advancing his expertise and providing cutting-edge dental solutions.
At 3Dental, Dr Price values the modern surgeries and state-of-the-art technology that enable him to offer the best possible care. His core value is to ensure that every patient feels they have received the best service and value for their investment. He takes pride in his high standard of work, which not only meets his professional standards but also earns the appreciation and trust of his patients.
When not perfecting smiles, Dr Price enjoys an active lifestyle, engaging in activities like golfing, running, and watching rugby. His active lifestyle and interest in sports reflect his dynamic personality and his pursuit of excellence, both personally and professionally.
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Dr Cem Algul
Specialist Orthodontist
Read BioDr Cem Algul
Bachelor Dent. Sc. (University of Szeged, Hungary) 2016, Specialising in Orthodontics, 2019
Specialist Orthodontist
Dr Cem Algul is a highly skilled orthodontist with a passion for creating beautiful, healthy smiles. He graduated from the University of Szeged in 2016 with a degree in dentistry, and shortly after, he knew that he wanted to specialise in orthodontics.
After completing his general dentistry training, Dr Algul pursued a speciality in orthodontics, which he completed in 2019. During his training, he developed a keen eye for detail and a commitment to using the latest techniques and technologies to help his patients achieve optimal results.
Today, Dr Algul is recognised as a leading orthodontist in his community, and he is known for his friendly, compassionate approach to patient care. He takes the time to get to know his patients and works closely with them to develop personalised treatment plans that meet their unique needs and goals.
Whether helping a child achieve a healthy, straight smile or working with an adult to correct problems with their bite and improve overall dental health, Dr Algul is committed to providing the highest level of care and achieving the best possible outcomes for his patients.
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Dr Kahei Hernández
Practice Limited to Orthodontics
Read BioDr Kahei Hernández
Bachelor Dent. Sc. (San Pablo CEU University, Madrid) 2014, MSc. Dentofacial Orthopedics and Orthodontics (Alcalá University, Madrid) 2020
Practice Limited to Orthodontics
Kahei graduated in dentistry in 2014 from San Pablo CEU University in Madrid and worked as a general dentist for six years.
In 2020 he received his three-year master's degree in Dentofacial Orthopedics and Orthodontics from Alcalá University in Madrid and became a qualified Invisalign provider.
Kahei is currently splitting his time working as an orthodontic dentist in Dublin and Madrid. He came to Dublin to grow as a professional and experience living abroad.
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Rayan Rehman
Orthodontic Therapist
Read BioRayan Rehman
Dublin Dental Hospital
Orthodontic Therapist
Rayan is a graduate from the Dublin Dental hospital in Trinity college. She has experience in all areas of dentistry but has a key interest in orthodontics and prosthodontics.
Rayan enjoys working with patients and seeing the end result of a satisfied patient.
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Sarah Dempsey
Orthodontic Therapist
Read BioSarah Dempsey
Dublin Dental Hospital Orthodontic Therapy
Orthodontic Therapist
Previously, Sarah worked in a small specialist orthodontic practice for 8years. She joined the previous practice as a dental nurse and, in 2018, went back to college to study orthodontic therapy at Trinity College/Dublin Dental Hospital.
She enjoys being clinically involved with the patients' treatments from start to finish and seeing the transformation after treatment is complete.
Sarah joined 3dental in July 2022 and enjoys her role within the practice. She likes that 3Dental is a multi-disciplinary practice, and all treatments are carried out here with clinicians having direct contact with each other when involved in cases, particularly complex cases.
Sarah enjoys spending time with her family and going to the gym in her spare time.
Do And Don'ts In Orthodontic Treatment
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Metal Braces
- Do listen to everything your orthodontist says.
- Don't eat certain foods like crisps and hard candies to avoid tooth decay and gum disease.
- Do brush and floss thoroughly.
- Don't miss your check-up appointments.
- Don't be impatient. These treatments take time to yield results.
- Don't be nervous. Just look forward to your new, beautiful smile.
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