TOKYO HIGH DENTAL CLINIC
Frequently Asked Questions
Q
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Full orthodontic treatment usually takes about one and a half to two years, and partial orthodontics often finishes within six months to a year.
Q
Is orthodontic treatment very painful?
There is soreness or discomfort for the first few days, but you gradually get used to it. Painkillers can be prescribed if needed.
Q
How long does implant treatment take?
It depends on the condition of the bone, but generally the final prosthesis is fitted after a two to three month osseointegration period following placement.
Q
How long do teeth whitening results last?
It varies with individual lifestyle habits, but the effect is usually maintained for about six months to a year. With regular care it can last longer.
Q
Do veneers require removing a lot of tooth structure?
Minimal-reduction veneers remove only 0.1–0.3mm of tooth structure, which is very little, minimizing damage to the tooth.
Q
Is denture treatment covered by insurance?
For those aged 65 and over, national health insurance applies, greatly reducing the out-of-pocket cost.
Q
What should I prepare for my first visit?
Please bring your ID, and if you have past treatment records or X-rays, bringing them along helps with the diagnosis.
Q
Are there food restrictions during orthodontic treatment?
Hard or sticky food (taffy, caramel, etc.) can damage the appliance, so it is best to avoid them.
Q
Is scaling still needed during orthodontic treatment?
Yes. Tartar builds up easily around the appliance, so regular scaling is essential.
Q
Is implant surgery painful?
It is performed under local anesthesia, so there is almost no pain during surgery, though there may be slight discomfort afterwards.
Q
How many years can an implant be used?
It depends on individual oral care, but generally it can be used for more than ten years. With good care it may last a lifetime.
Q
Is aesthetic treatment (veneers, whitening, etc.) harmful to the teeth?
We use minimal-reduction methods and safe materials, so the burden on the tooth is minimized.
Q
Is one teeth whitening session enough?
Discoloration can recur depending on lifestyle habits, so regular maintenance treatment is needed.
Q
Do I have to have a crown after root canal treatment?
Yes. After root canal treatment the tooth becomes weak, so it must be reinforced with a crown to last a long time.
Q
Do dentures have to be worn every day?
Please wear them daily if possible, but it is better to take them out while sleeping to let the gums rest.
Q
How many years can a bridge be used?
It can generally be used for about five to seven years, and longer depending on how well it is maintained.
Q
Can the orthodontic appliance be made less noticeable?
Yes. Using ceramic brackets or clear aligners makes it less noticeable.
Q
When is the best time to start orthodontics for children?
It is ideal to begin an orthodontic consultation during the mixed dentition stage (around ages 7 to 9).
Q
Can I play sports or a musical instrument during orthodontic treatment?
Yes, you can. There may be slight discomfort at first, however.
Q
How often should I visit the dental clinic?
For orthodontics, usually every four to six weeks; for implants, regular check-ups after surgery; and for general treatment, a check-up every six months is recommended.
Q
Will the dentist who consults with me also carry out the treatment?
Yes. The dentist in charge does not change from the first consultation until treatment ends. Orthodontic care is handled directly by Director Ahn Jin-gyu, who holds a doctorate in orthodontics and is a certified specialist in integrated dentistry, covering diagnosis, appliance design and regular adjustments.
Q
What examinations are done for diagnosis?
An oral examination and a panoramic X-ray are standard, and a 3D CT scan is taken when needed. A 3D CT shows the thickness of the jawbone and the position of nerves that flat images cannot reveal, so it is used when planning implant placement and orthodontic treatment.
