ORTHODONTICS IN THESSALONIKI
Dr. Konstantinos Tsoumis Orthodontic Practice
COMPLETE PATIENT GUIDE
Looking for orthodontic treatment in Thessaloniki? Dr. Konstantinos Tsoumis and Dr. Maria Tsoumi offer specialised orthodontic care for children, teens and adults — from first evaluation and braces to clear aligners, teeth whitening and professional cleaning. The practice is built on scientific precision, personalised treatment planning, and results that last.
7 yrs
Recommended first orthodontic check-up
~22 mo
Average treatment duration with braces
3–4 weeks
Interval between adjustment visits
1 in 5
Orthodontic patients are adults over 21
The orthodontic treatment process in Thessaloniki — from first visit to finish
1. Initial consultation
No commitment. Existing X-rays welcome. Full exam of teeth & jaws.
2. Diagnostics
Panoramic + cephalometric X-ray, clinical photos. Personalised plan with cost & timeline.
3. Placement
Braces or aligners fitted in ~30 min, painless. Mild pressure for 2–3 days is normal.
4. Adjustments
10–20 min visits every 3–4 weeks. Progress reviewed and plan adapted.
5. Removal
Painless, ~25–30 min. Followed by professional cleaning and polishing.
6. Retention
Upper: clear night retainer. Lower: fixed wire on inner surface. As important as treatment itself.
What determines treatment length?
Complexity of the case · Patient age (children & teens respond faster as bones are still growing) · Patient compliance with instructions · Consistency of appointments — skipping visits extends treatment.
When are braces actually removed?
Not simply when teeth “look straight.” The orthodontist evaluates: correct bite (upper/lower occlusion), front tooth alignment, stability of all teeth, and closure of any gaps. Fine-tuning in the final phase determines long-term outcome.
Orthodontic treatment options in Thessaloniki
Braces
- Metal — most effective for complex cases, most affordable
- Ceramic — tooth-coloured, far less visible
- Lingual — inner surface, completely invisible
- Self-ligating — fewer visits, often shorter treatment
Clear aligners (Invisalign-type)
- Near-invisible custom trays changed every 1–2 weeks
- Removable for eating & brushing — no food restrictions
- Average 12–14 months; office visits every 2 weeks.
- Can be combined with braces for complex cases
Preventive & aesthetic
- Cleaning every 6 months — plaque, tartar, stains; fluoride applied
- Sealants — protective coating on molars
- LED whitening — 1–2 h in-office, immediate results
- At-home whitening — custom trays, gentler option
Orthodontics for children in Thessaloniki
Τiming & stages
- First evaluation by age 7–8: Early visit doesn’t mean immediate treatment — most cases require only monitoring every 6–12 months
- Phase 1 (7–10): Appliances guide jaw growth and correct skeletal anomalies
- Phase 2 (11–13): Braces or aligners once permanent teeth have erupted
- Retention: Retainer after treatment — essential for lasting results
Benefits of early intervention
- Guides jaw growth while bones are still developing — unavailable to adults
- Prevents extractions and reduces complexity of later treatment
- Corrects harmful habits (mouth breathing, thumb-sucking) early
- Untreated skeletal issues may require surgery in adulthood
Note:
The earlier the evaluation, the more treatment options available.
Orthodontics for adults in Thessaloniki
Key differences
- Bone growth is complete — severe skeletal issues may require surgery
- Existing restorations and gum health are factored into the plan
- Incomplete childhood treatment can be resumed at any age
Health & lifestyle benefits
- Straight teeth are easier to clean — less plaque, lower risk of decay and gum disease
- Correct bite reduces jaw strain, headaches and bruxism
- Improves outcomes for implants and bridges; linked to lower cardiovascular and diabetes risk
Living with braces — care, discomfort & hygiene
Discomfort
- Soreness 3–5 days after placement and 1–3 days after each adjustment — pressure, not pain
- Paracetamol 1 h before adjustment; orthodontic wax for irritating wires
- Cold water or ice cream soothes; saltwater rinses calm gums
Diet
- Eat freely: soft bread, pasta, yoghurt, fish, cooked vegetables
- Avoid: hard foods (crackers, nuts), sticky foods (gum, toffee), whole-bite foods — cut apples and corn into pieces
Hygiene
- Brush at least 3× per day; use interdental brushes or floss daily
- For aligners: clean teeth before reinserting; store in case when not worn
- Continue dental check-ups every 6 months throughout treatment
OUR TEAM
Dr. Konstantinos Tsoumis — Orthodontist, founder
DDS AUTH · MSc Periodontology, Univ. of Wales · Specialty in Orthodontics, Loyola Univ. USA · Member, World Federation of Orthodontics & Hellenic Orthodontic Society
Dr. Maria Tsoumi — Dental surgeon & orthodontist
DDS AUTH · MSc Orthodontics (in progress) · Specialties: Orthodontics, Restorative & Aesthetic Dentistry · Treats patients of all ages
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
General Questions about Orthodontics
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics — also known as dentofacial orthopedics — is a specialized branch of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities.
What is the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?
An orthodontist is a specialized dentist who focuses on correcting dental and jaw irregularities. A general dentist takes care of the overall health of your teeth and gums. The two specialties work together for the best outcome for each patient.
What is the right age to visit an orthodontist?
Orthodontic treatment can begin at any age. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first evaluation at ages 7–8. However, approximately 20% of patients undergoing orthodontic treatment are adults over 21. It’s never too late for a healthy smile.
Can I have orthodontic treatment if I have fillings or crowns?
Yes. Having fillings or crowns is not an obstacle to orthodontic treatment. During the evaluation, we take into account the full picture of your oral health.
Do I need to have teeth extracted before starting treatment?
Not always. In some cases where there isn’t enough space in the jaw, the orthodontist may recommend extracting certain teeth. This is assessed individually for each patient.
Questions about Braces
What are braces?
Braces are orthodontic appliances used to improve the appearance and functionality of your smile. There are various types depending on each patient’s needs and preferences:
- Traditional metal braces
- Ceramic (aesthetic) braces
- Lingual braces (on the inner side of the teeth)
- Self-ligating braces
- Clear aligners
How long will I need to wear braces?
The duration depends on each patient’s needs. It typically ranges from 6 to 30 months, with an average of approximately 22 months. Every smile responds differently to treatment.
Do braces hurt?
Braces don’t cause pain, but there may be some mild discomfort during the first few days as the teeth, gums, and cheeks adjust. This discomfort is normal and temporary.
How often will I visit the orthodontist during treatment?
Usually every 3–4 weeks, depending on the treatment plan. Regular visits are essential for monitoring progress and making necessary adjustments.
What are the alternatives if I don't want braces?
Clear aligners are the main alternative — nearly invisible, removable, and effective for a wide range of cases. During the consultation, we will assess which option best suits your situation.
Can I add colors to my braces?
“Colors” are tiny elastic rings that hold the wires in place and are available in many shades. They are not available for all types of braces — we will let you know during your first visit.
Will braces affect my activities?
Some adjustment time is needed, especially for musical instruments or contact sports. Braces are not an obstacle to any activity. For contact sports, the use of a protective mouthguard is recommended.
Will my teeth shift back after treatment?
To maintain the results, it is essential to wear retainers (removable or fixed) after the completion of treatment.
Care During Orthodontic Treatment
How should I care for my teeth with braces or a retainer?
- Brush after every meal and use interdental brushes or dental floss at least once a day
- Use fluoride toothpaste — ask us if you also need a mouthwash
- If you remove a retainer to eat, clean your teeth before putting it back in and store it in its case
- Avoid sticky, hard, and sugary foods
- Don’t skip your regular dental check-up every 6 months
Should I brush more often with braces?
Yes. With braces, we recommend brushing at least 3 times a day. Braces easily trap food debris, so regular hygiene is especially important for preventing cavities and gingivitis.
Do I need to continue regular dental check-ups during treatment?
Yes — it’s even more important during orthodontic treatment. Your dentist and orthodontist work together to ensure your teeth remain healthy throughout the treatment.
Questions about Cleanings and Examinations
Why are regular dental examinations and cleanings important?
Even with proper daily brushing, there are areas that aren’t fully cleaned. Over time, plaque and tartar build up, leading to cavities and gum disease. Regular examinations allow for the early detection and treatment of problems before they progress.
How often should I have an examination and cleaning?
At least every 6 months. Some higher-risk patients may need more frequent visits — this is assessed individually.
What does a dental examination and cleaning include?
The examination includes a visual check of the teeth, gums, tongue, and oral tissues, as well as X-rays where deemed necessary. The cleaning includes removal of plaque and tartar (scaling), tooth polishing, and fluoride application where needed.
Is an examination and cleaning painful?
No. There may be mild sensitivity in certain areas, but the procedure is generally comfortable. If you feel anxious about the visit, let us know — we do everything we can to ensure a calm experience for you.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Yes. With modern digital technology, radiation exposure is minimal. All necessary precautions are always taken for patient safety.
Can cleanings remove stains from teeth?
Yes, professional cleaning effectively removes surface stains from coffee, tea, wine, and tobacco. For deeper stains embedded in the tooth structure, teeth whitening may be recommended.
How can cleanings improve my overall health?
Oral health affects the entire body. Research has linked poor oral hygiene to heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory problems. Regular cleanings reduce harmful bacteria and contribute to your overall well-being.
Book your first evaluation — no commitment, no pressure. Early diagnosis is the best investment in your smile.