Skip to content
The Challenge
During the initial specialist consultation, our team identified three primary structural concerns:
- Constricted Palate: A narrow upper arch that reduced the space available for adult teeth.
- Moderate Crowding: Significant overlap and misalignment, particularly in the lower front teeth.
- Aesthetic Discrepancy: Naturally small lateral incisors that affected the overall symmetry of the smile line.
- Hygiene Baselines: The patient had heavy, built-up calculus deposits, meaning that a comprehensive scale and polish was required before any orthodontic appliances could be safely bonded.
The Strategic Treatment Plan
Our specialist orthodontist, Claire O’Sullivan, developed a targeted, non-extraction treatment programme designed to expand the smile naturally while aligning the teeth over a two-year period.
Foundation Cleaning: The patient completed their very first professional scale and polish with our hygienist to establish excellent gum health before starting treatment.
Fixed Appliance Therapy: High-quality American Orthodontics (AO) metal braces were fitted to both arches to carefully orchestrate the alignment and expand the constricted upper arch.
Mid-Treatment Adjustments: When a brief lapse in attendance caused the upper back molars to slip into a temporary crossbite, our clinical team quickly adapted. We extended the brackets to the second molars to safely guide the bite back into its optimal position.
Hygiene Coaching: Throughout the brace wear, our orthodontic therapists utilised plaque-disclosing tablets and mirror tutorials to help the patient improve their brushing technique and prevent enamel decalcification.
The Beautiful Result
In August 2023—precisely on schedule for their 24-month target—the patient’s braces were removed. The structural crowding was entirely resolved, and the narrow palate was beautifully widened into a radiant, balanced smile.
To safeguard this fantastic investment, a fixed bonded retainer was placed behind the front teeth, paired with custom-moulded Essix retainers for night-time wear. At their final review, the patient was splitting their time between successfully maintaining their retainer routine and thriving in a full-time game design course!
- The Specialist Advantage: By avoiding extractions and focusing on arch development, we were able to widen the patient's smile line, creating better facial balance and a highly stable, functional bite.
Ready to Transform Your Smile?
Whether you are dealing with crowded teeth, a narrow bite, or simply want to explore your options for a straighter smile, our specialist Dublin team is here to guide you every step of the way.
