Brace adornments: Necessity or Trend?
Orthodontic care has seen a surge on the streets, leaving some questioning if it's a fashion statement or a genuine necessity. Here's a lowdown on how to tell if you truly need braces, and how to pick the right specialist.
What the Ministry of Health Says
Digging into the numbers, we found that in the year 2024, 16 cases related to complications due to improperly installed or adjusted braces were reported by the Ministry of Health's committee. Out of these, four cases were subjected to unscheduled inspections. As of our latest update in May 2025, additional 18 similar cases have been reported, with one of them undergoing an unscheduled inspection.
Expert Advice
So, how do you know if you really need orthodontic treatment? And how to find the perfect dentist or orthodontist? Ortodontist Iskander Ishanov, with a decade of experience, shared some simple pointers.
Resist the Fashion Trap
Orthodontic treatment isn't just for beauty or fashion. Even the snazziest braces are a medical system designed to correct a bite. Going under the wire without a genuine cause can lead to harm.
Don't Judge a Book by Its Instagram Cover
An appealing feed doesn't equal professional expertise. Focus on education, licenses, work experience, and genuine reviews, preferably personal or from independent platforms.
Let the Experts Diagnose
If a doctor tells you to get braces within a week after your first consultation, be skeptical. A thorough preparation process usually spans two to three visits: initial examination, image analysis, treatment plan composition, and agreement. Don't settle for a quick-fix service; good orthodontic treatment is a process, not a rush job.
An expert orthodontist should provide a detailed treatment plan, explain the intricacies, give you time to ponder, and answer your questions without getting irritated. If the specialist shies away from these responsibilities, it's a red flag. The specialist should outline the treatment goals, what exactly needs correcting, the number of stages, possible risks, and alternatives.
Before installing braces, the following are mandatory:
- Panoramic X-ray (OPTG);
- T.R.G. (profile head shot);
- Photoprotocol;
- Impressions/Scans of teeth.
If these aren't part of the process, it's negligent. The diagnosis should be based on analysis, not on appearances.
Trust but Verify
A good doctor has nothing to hide. They'll proudly present their diplomas, course completion certificates, and a portfolio filled with "before/after" success stories.
Regular Check-ups are Key
Usually, visits to an orthodontist are scheduled every 3-5 weeks. The doctor should monitor the process and make necessary adjustments as needed.
Don't Settle Without Clarity
It's crucial to know the full cost upfront: installation, treatment, removing braces, and retainers. A clear contract and payment schedule should be provided. If a doctor only offers expensive braces, it's likely marketing tactics. Don't hesitate to explore various types of systems; price isn't always the prime consideration.
Dentists' incomes in Kazakhstan surged to a five-year high in 2024, with a whopping 209.9 billion tenges spent on their services[1]. Experts attribute this increase to the rise in dental services, with prices escalating by an average of 11.5% per year from 2021 to 2024, peaking at 18.3% in 2022[1].
[1] - (Source: Kazakhstan's State Statistics Committee)[2] - (Source: American Association of Orthodontists)[3] - (Source: National Health Service, UK)[4] - (Source: British Orthodontic Society)[5] - (Source: American Dental Association)
Enrichment Data:
Determining the need for orthodontic treatment and choosing a qualified orthodontist can be approached systematically. Here's a step-by-step guide:
How to Determine the Need for Orthodontic Treatment
- Evaluation: The first step is to have an orthodontic evaluation. It is recommended that children have their first evaluation by age seven to assess if there are any early signs of issues like misaligned or crowded teeth[2][5].
- Assessment of Dental Issues: Common dental problems that may require orthodontic treatment include:
- Crowding: When teeth overlap due to insufficient space.
- Overbite or Underbite: Misalignment of the upper and lower jaws.
- Spacing Issues: Gaps between teeth due to tooth loss or natural growth[5].
- Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN): This index helps determine the necessity for orthodontic treatment based on both dental health needs and aesthetic considerations. In many countries, including the UK, those with severe irregularities (Grade 4 and 5) qualify for NHS treatment[3].
Choosing a Qualified Orthodontist in Kazakhstan
- Professional Certification: Ensure the orthodontist is certified by a reputable professional body. In Kazakhstan, look for specialists certified by the national dental association or international equivalents like the American Association of Orthodontists.
- Experience and Specialization: Consider how long the orthodontist has been practicing and their specialization in orthodontics. Some orthodontists may specialize in specific age groups or types of orthodontic treatments.
- Reputation and Reviews: Check online reviews, ask for referrals from friends or family members who have had similar treatments, and assess the reputation of the orthodontist in the community.
- Facility and Equipment: Ensure the orthodontist has access to modern facilities and equipment, which could indicate a commitment to staying updated with the latest techniques and technologies.
- Consultation: Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific needs. This will also give you an opportunity to assess the orthodontist's communication style and whether you feel comfortable with their approach.
- Insurance Coverage: If applicable, check if the orthodontist accepts your insurance plan to ensure coverage for your treatment.
- What about the link between orthodontic care and health-and-wellness? Recent cases reported by the Ministry of Health suggest that improperly installed or adjusted braces can lead to health complications.
- As science continues to study the intricacies of oral health, it's clear that orthodontic treatment isn't just a matter of fashion - it's a health concern. When considering orthodontic care, it's essential to prioritize professional expertise over the appeal of Instagram-worthy braces.
