A radiant smile and healthy chewing function are far more than just aesthetic features - they form the foundation for comprehensive health and quality of life. As a modern dental practice in the heart of Zurich with a specialised team of 10 dentists and state-of-the-art technical equipment, we offer you orthodontic treatment at the highest level. In the following sections, you will learn about the far-reaching health benefits of orthodontics (correcting the position of your teeth) and the treatment options available to you (from brackets and lingual technology to aligners such as Invisalign). Our orthodontist Dr Matthias Hodecker and Dr Jakob MüllerM.Sc. (Ortho) will be happy to advise you.
Orthodontics is much more than cosmetics - it is preventive medicine with demonstrable health benefits. Scientific studies provide impressive evidence that correct tooth alignment and harmonised bite function have numerous positive effects on overall health.
Improved oral hygiene and caries prevention
Straight, aligned teeth without overlaps or crowding are much easier to clean. Orthodontic correction eliminates hard-to-reach spaces in which plaque and bacteria accumulate when teeth are misaligned. This leads to a significant reduction in the risk of caries and the likelihood of periodontitis. Patients who have completed orthodontic treatment report better oral health and less need for treatment.
Optimised digestion through efficient chewing function
A correct bite position enables efficient chewing - the first and crucial step in digestion. When teeth meet properly, food is thoroughly broken down, which significantly improves the absorption of nutrients in the digestive tract. Misalignment, on the other hand, impairs chewing efficiency and can lead to digestive problems as larger food particles strain the gastrointestinal tract.
Misaligned teeth often lead to uneven loading of the temporomandibular joints, which can cause temporomandibular dysfunction (TMJ/CMD). The symptoms range from jaw pain and headaches to neck and back tension. Orthodontic correction distributes the chewing force evenly, reduces the load on the temporomandibular joint and thus prevents pain and dysfunction. Scientific studies show that orthodontic treatments can significantly alleviate TMJ complaints.
Misaligned jaws can impair the airways and lead to problems such as snoring or sleep apnoea. A correct jaw position widens the airway, promotes nasal breathing and improves the oxygen supply during sleep. This has far-reaching effects on general health and performance.
The teeth play a central role in sound formation.
Misalignments can lead to speech problems such as lisping,
especially with s and z sounds. Orthodontic corrections
improve articulation and enable clearer speech,
more self-confident communication.
Reduction of bruxism and tooth wear
An incorrect bite can favour night-time teeth grinding (bruxism), which leads to accelerated tooth wear, enamel damage and morning headaches. By creating an optimal bite position, the pressure on the teeth is harmonised and the risk of bruxism is significantly reduced.
Long-term tooth preservation
A physiologically correct tooth position is the best prerequisite for the lifelong preservation of your own teeth. Over the years, untreated misalignments lead to uneven loading, premature tooth loss and the need for extensive prosthetic restorations.
The psychological effects of orthodontic treatment are scientifically well documented and should not be underestimated.
Studies show that braces increase self-esteem. A study with 102 patients showed that their self-confidence increased significantly after braces treatment. Patients say that they smile more openly after treatment, feel more comfortable and appear more self-confident.
The improvement in oral health-related quality of life is one of the best-documented effects of orthodontic treatment. Patients who have completed treatment report higher general satisfaction, improved social function and reduced anxiety compared to untreated individuals.
Crooked or misaligned teeth can lead to social withdrawal, avoidance of photos and limited communication. Correcting these problems often triggers a profound change: Patients dare to smile again, feel more confident in conversations and participate more actively in social life.
A confident smile is associated with competence, trustworthiness and professionalism. In job interviews, presentations and customer contact, an attractive smile can make all the difference
- Improvement of the chewing function
- Reducing the risk of caries and periodontitis
- Prevention of secondary diseases
- Increase in self-esteem and quality of life
- Long-term tooth preservation and less invasive
Measures in adulthood
Functional orthodontics utilises the body's own muscular forces to correct misaligned jaws and teeth. Removable functional orthodontic appliances such as the Activator, Twinblock or Bionator have a passive effect on growth and influence the position of the tongue, lips and cheeks. This gentle therapy is good for children and adolescents as they grow.
The bionator is made of plastic and consists of parts that have been adapted to the lips, cheeks and tongue. It lies loosely in the mouth and functions like a "gymnastic apparatus for the muscles in the jaw, head and neck area". With every chewing, swallowing and speaking movement, the bionator directs the muscle forces in a targeted manner to promote or inhibit jaw growth. This leads step by step to optimisation of the jaw position.
The plastic plates of the functional regulator fit snugly where jaw growth is to be inhibited. On the other hand, they separate those areas from the cheek muscles where growth is to be encouraged. There are four different types, depending on the type of malocclusion (mandibular advancement, progenia, open bite).
"When our 9-year-old daughter Lena was diagnosed with mandibular advancement, Dr Hodecker recommended treatment with an activator. Lena was sceptical at first. However, the team patiently explained how the device makes her jaw fit. After a familiarisation phase of around a week, she wore the Bionator at night and in the afternoon without any problems. What impressed us was that after just 12 months, we could see clear changes. Lena's lower jaw had developed harmoniously forwards and her profile appeared more balanced. The treatment was completely pain-free and Lena was able to continue her normal life - sports, music lessons, no problem at all. Today, two years later, she has a perfect set of teeth. We are glad we chose this method."- The M. family, Zurich, October 2024
Fixed multi-bracket therapy is used for complex malocclusions that require precise three-dimensional tooth movements. This treatment method enables physical tooth movements, the correction of rotational positions, the precise control of tooth axes and the alignment of complicated misaligned teeth.
Continuous application of force
In contrast to removable appliances, fixed appliances act on the teeth 24 hours a day, resulting in faster and more predictable treatment progress. The brackets are bonded to the teeth and connected by elastic arches that exert continuous gentle pressure.
Modern materials and technology
We work with modern brackets that reduce friction. This makes treatments gentler on the teeth and more comfortable for patients. Thermoelastic wire arches adapt to the temperature of the mouth and enable gentle, continuous tooth movements.
Aesthetic options
For patients who value aesthetics, we offer ceramic brackets, which are much less conspicuous than metal brackets.
The WIN-Lingual system is the most innovative solution for the highest aesthetic demands. This fully customised lingual appliance is attached to the inside of the teeth and is completely invisible from the outside.
"I am 35 years old and work as a management consultant. I work a lot with clients. I didn't want braces, but my misaligned teeth were bothering me. The WIN-Lingual technique was the perfect solution. After a week I got used to it and nobody noticed my braces. Not my colleagues, not my customers, not my siblings at family celebrations. Getting used to speaking took about
After ten days, everything was back to normal. The treatment was completed after 18 months. I am very satisfied. My teeth are now perfectly aligned and I can smile without inhibitions. The investment has paid off. I would never have thought that I could achieve such a result in my mid-30s. WIN is the best choice for anyone who has a lot to do with customers or simply wants to be treated discreetly."- Michael S., Zurich, December 2023
Aligner systems such as Invisalign have revolutionised orthodontics and offer a virtually invisible, removable alternative to fixed braces. These transparent plastic aligners are customised using the latest 3D technology and gradually move the teeth into the desired position.
The effectiveness of aligners has long been the subject of controversy. Current studies show how well they work.
The transparent splints are barely visible in everyday life - most people don't even notice them at close range. This is a decisive advantage, especially for adults at work.
- The aligners can be removed for eating and dental care
- No dietary restrictions
- No painful pressure points or annoying brackets
- Shorter and less frequent check-ups (every 6-8 weeks)
Digital planning allows patients to see what their smile will look like after treatment even before treatment begins. This visualisation increases motivation considerably.
The removable dental splints make it easier to clean your teeth and reduce the risk of tooth decay.
The duration of treatment with aligners varies between 6 and 24 months, depending on the complexity of the malocclusion. For success, it is crucial to wear the aligners consistently for 20-22 hours a day and only take them out to eat and clean your teeth.
The splints are usually changed every 7-14 days. Small tooth-coloured attachments (retaining elements) on the teeth improve force transmission and enable precise tooth movements.
Aligners are suitable for almost all malocclusions - from simple corrections to complex cases.
They are particularly advantageous for:
„As a marketing manager, I’m constantly in meetings and giving presentations. At 42, I’d come to terms with my crooked front teeth. Then a colleague told me about Invisalign. After the consultation, I was thrilled. The 3D simulation showed me what my smile would look like. The decision was an easy one. During the treatment, nobody ever asked me if I was wearing braces. The aligners were so discreet that I sometimes even forgot I was wearing them. I had to be disciplined and wear them for at least 20 hours every day. After three months, I noticed the first changes. That made it easier for me. Now, a year after the treatment, I look in the mirror every morning and am happy with my smile. On video calls and when
I feel more confident when I give a presentation. The investment has paid off. I should have done it sooner!"
Sarah K., Zurich, March 2024
"My teeth have bothered me all my life. As an engineer, it wasn't important to me. But when I was 38, I realised that I never smiled in photos and looked insecure in presentations. A friend told me about his Invisalign treatment. I thought, 'That's something for me too. Why not? The first few days with the aligners were unusual. I felt a slight pressure and a bit of salivation. But after a week I hardly noticed them. I saw small improvements after each aligner change. That really motivated me. After 11 months, the treatment was complete. My life has changed. I now like to smile, feel more confident in presentations and have even benefited professionally. At my last promotion, my self-confident demeanour was expressly praised. Looking back, the aligner treatment was one of the best decisions of my life."
Thomas B., Zurich, July 2023
Orthodontic treatments are far more than cosmetic corrections - they are investments in your long-term health, your well-being and your quality of life. We will find the right solution for you in our modern practice in the centre of Zurich. Whether with removable appliances, fixed appliances or aligners.
With our team of specialists from all disciplines, state-of-the-art technology (DVT, digital scanners, CEREC) and our own dental laboratory, we offer you orthodontic treatment at university level. Arrange a no-obligation consultation today and be inspired by the possibilities of modern orthodontics.
Your teeth. Your health. Your radiant smile.
