Frequently asked questions What patients regularly ask and our answers. Frequently asked questions about braces, aligners & orthodontic treatment Filter by topic here: All Age Orthodontic treatment Aligners Free braces Costs Frequently asked questions about the right age At what age should my child start with braces? Dr. Lutz Hodeckeranswered this question. We recommend an initial orthodontic examination from the age of 6 to 7. At this age, the first signs of dental or jaw misalignments can be identified and then treated in good time. Click here to book a free consultation. Is there a maximum age for starting orthodontic treatment? Dr. Denise Buscheanswered this question. There is no maximum age for orthodontic treatment. At the Eltz Institut, we regularly treat patients aged 60 and over. Our motto: it’s never too late for a beautiful smile! Can I still wear braces as an adult? Dr. Lutz Hodeckeranswered this question. Yes, at the Eltz Institut we successfully treat over 1,000 adults every year with various types of braces, including invisible aligners, lingual braces (fitted behind the teeth) and clear brackets. Is it too late if you only get braces as an adult? Dr. Alexander Gugenbergeranswered this question. No, it’s never too late for orthodontic treatment. Adults can also achieve excellent results and benefit enormously from orthodontic treatment. Apart from the benefits of a beautiful smile, the potential risks associated with misaligned teeth range from tooth decay and tooth loss to headaches, neck pain and much more. What are the risks of starting braces too late? Dr. Kathrin Neugschwandtneranswered this question. If treatment is delayed, dental and jaw problems can get worse, which may require longer and more complex treatment. Only early intervention can prevent such complications. Are there differences in treatment between children and adults? Dr. Lutz Hodeckeranswered this question. Yes – because children’s jaws are still growing, certain orthodontic measures can be carried out more easily and quickly in children. Adults, on the other hand, often need special techniques, as their jaw growth is complete. Which types of braces are particularly suitable for adults? Dr. Simon Spönleinanswered this question. For adults, we offer a wide range of options, including invisible aligners, braces fitted behind the teeth (lingual braces) and aesthetic ceramic brackets, which are less visible. How early can treatment with aligners begin? Dr. Lutz Hodeckeranswered this question. Treatment with aligners can be considered from as early as 8–10 years of age, depending on the individual dental and jaw situation. Our experienced orthodontists will give you a precise recommendation after a thorough examination. Frequently asked questions about the orthodontic treatment process What does orthodontic treatment at the Eltz Institut involve? Dr. Alexander Gugenbergeranswered this question. Treatment begins with a no-obligation initial consultation, during which a detailed medical history is taken and an examination is carried out. An individual treatment plan is then drawn up. If you wish, treatment can start straight away. Click here to book a free consultation. What types of braces are there? Dr. Denise Buscheanswered this question. We offer removable braces, fixed brackets, lingual braces and invisible aligners in order to find the right solution for every patient. What happens at the first consultation? Dr. Lutz Hodeckeranswered this question. At the first consultation, our orthodontists carry out a thorough examination to assess the condition of your teeth and jaws. We then discuss the possible treatment options and draw up an individual treatment plan. How soon can I start, and when will I see the first progress? Dr. Kathrin Neugschwandtneranswered this question. After the initial consultation, treatment can begin immediately once the individual treatment plan has been finalised. The first progress is often visible after just a few weeks. How long does orthodontic treatment take on average? Dr. Lutz Hodeckeranswered this question. The duration of treatment varies depending on the complexity of the misalignment: minor misalignments can be treated in around 6 months, while very complex cases can take considerably longer. How often do I need to come in for check-ups? Dr. Denise Buscheanswered this question. Check-up appointments usually take place every 4 to 8 weeks, to monitor the progress of treatment and make any necessary adjustments. What can I do to shorten the treatment time? Dr. Simon Spönleinanswered this question. Good oral hygiene, attending all check-up appointments and consistently wearing removable aligners for the required time can help to shorten the treatment time. Is orthodontic treatment painful? Dr. Alexander Gugenbergeranswered this question. At the start of treatment and after adjustments, you may experience mild discomfort, but this usually subsides after a few days. Our team is there for you to make you as comfortable as possible during treatment. Frequently asked questions about clear aligners / aligners How does treatment with aligners work? Dr. Denise Buscheanswered this question. Treatment with aligners takes place in several phases. First, a digital 3D model of your teeth is created, on the basis of which your individual aligners are made. The aligners are then changed every 1–2 weeks to move the teeth gradually into the desired position. How long do I need to wear the aligners each day? Dr. Kathrin Neugschwandtneranswered this question. For optimal results, the aligners should be worn 22 hours a day and only taken out for eating and brushing your teeth. How long does it take to get used to the braces? Dr. Simon Spönleinanswered this question. Getting used to aligners usually takes only a few days. After this time, most patients have got used to how they feel. How many aligners will I need over the entire treatment? Dr. Kathrin Neugschwandtneranswered this question. The number of aligners needed varies depending on the severity of the misalignment, but can be between 10 and 50 aligners per jaw. How do I clean the aligners? Mag. Simone Happelanswered this question. The aligners should be cleaned daily with a soft toothbrush and clear water. Special cleaning tablets can also be used to prevent bacteria and discolouration. Are there any restrictions on eating with aligners? Mag. Simone Happelanswered this question. The aligners should be taken out for eating. This allows you to enjoy all foods without restrictions. Are aligners suitable for all types of misalignment? Dr. Lutz Hodeckeranswered this question. Aligners are suitable for many, but not all, types of misalignment. In some cases, brackets or other orthodontic methods are necessary. Our orthodontists will advise you individually on this. Frequently asked questions about costs, health insurance & tax How much does orthodontic treatment cost in Austria? Dr. Simon Spönleinanswered this question. The cost at the Eltz Institut depends on the complexity of the misalignment and the method chosen, and is based on the official fee guidelines of the Austrian Dental Chamber. With the interest-free Eltz financing service, it can be spread over up to 3 years. You will find out your exact costs at your consultation. Does health insurance cover the cost of braces? Dr. Stephan Baszleranswered this question. Under certain conditions (depending on the IOTN grade – Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need – of the misalignment), some health insurance funds reimburse part of the treatment costs. We help you get the maximum from your health insurance fund by providing all the necessary documents for you. What are “free braces” and who is eligible? Dr. Alexander Gugenbergeranswered this question. “Free braces” (Gratis Zahnspange) are orthodontic treatment funded by Austrian public health insurance for children and adolescents with severe misalignments. Children between 6 and 18 years of age with a misalignment of IOTN grade 4–5 are eligible. Is treatment with invisible aligners more expensive? Mag. Simone Happelanswered this question. Treatment with invisible aligners costs about the same. There may be differences in the amount reimbursed by the health insurance fund. Is there an instalment plan for orthodontic treatment? Dr. Stephan Baszleranswered this question. Yes, at the Eltz Institut we offer an interest-free instalment plan for up to 36 months to make treatment affordable for all patients. Can I deduct the cost of braces from my taxes? Mag. Simone Happelanswered this question. Yes, the cost of orthodontic treatment at the Eltz Institut can be claimed for tax purposes as “extraordinary expenses” (außergewöhnliche Belastungen). Is there a discount for paying upfront? Mag. Simone Happelanswered this question. Yes, at the Eltz Institut we offer our patients a 4% discount for paying upfront if the treatment costs are settled straight away. What happens if additional treatment becomes necessary? Dr. Simon Spönleinanswered this question. Thanks to the Eltz guarantee, you can be sure that we will achieve the result agreed at the outset without any additional costs. Frequently asked questions about free braces Who is eligible for free braces? Mag. Christina Redtenbacheranswered this question. Children and adolescents between 6 and 18 years of age with severe misalignments (IOTN grade 4 or 5) are eligible for free braces. This is determined during the initial consultation with us at the Eltz Institut. Which age group can use free braces? Dr. Stephan Baszleranswered this question. Free braces are available for children and adolescents aged 6 to 18. What requirements must be met for free braces? Mag. Christina Redtenbacheranswered this question. The requirement is that the misalignment is classified as IOTN grade 4 or 5. Our orthodontists determine your child’s IOTN grade during a free initial consultation. Please call us on 01/3583 100 to make an appointment. Do free braces cover all types of braces? Dr. Lutz Hodeckeranswered this question. Free braces usually cover standard treatment with fixed brackets. Free braces are not available for other types of braces, such as invisible aligners. How do I apply for free braces? Mag. Christina Redtenbacheranswered this question. The application is made directly through the Eltz Institut. What happens if my child does not meet the requirements? Mag. Simone Happelanswered this question. If the requirements for free braces are not met, we will be happy to offer you other treatment options and financing options. Are there waiting times for free braces? Mag. Christina Redtenbacheranswered this question. Waiting times may vary depending on demand. As a rule, however, we endeavour to start treatment as quickly as possible. Are there any hidden costs with free braces? Mag. Simone Happelanswered this question. No, there are no hidden costs with us. Treatment under the free braces scheme is completely free of charge if the relevant requirements are met. Can I apply for free braces at any dentist? Dr. Stephan Baszleranswered this question. No, free braces can only be applied for and provided at certified institutes such as the Eltz Institut. We look forward to seeing you! Invisible, fast & gentle: your way to a dream smile at theEltz Institut Please make your selection. We are also happy to advise you by phone on 01 358 3181. New: Book your consultation online now and secure a 0% instalment plan until the end of ! Adults Orthodontic treatment for adults For all types of misalignment ✓ All methods ✓ Free consultation Book online learn more Children & teens Free braces For severe misalignment (covered by Austrian public health insurance) ✓ Free consultation Book online learn more Children & teens Clear aligners For all types of misalignment ✓ Consultation(credited if you book aligner treatment) Book online learn more All age groups Jaw joint (TMJ) therapy For specific jaw complaints ✓ Personal consultation Please call us first to clarify whether your symptoms fall within the scope of orthodontics or physiotherapy. 01 358 3181 learn more All age groups Combined orthodontic and surgical treatment (orthognathic surgery) For complex misalignment ✓ Free consultation Book online learn more All age groups Toothache, preventive care, oral hygiene, ...? Please consult your dentist. Home » FAQs You can trust us! Your dream smile – invisibly, quickly & gently!Book your free consultation nowBook an appointment01/3583 100 01/3583 100 Book an appointment Information for Ukrainians »DEENback to main menu Children & teenagers Free braces Address Eltz Institut für Zahnregulierung Dorotheergasse 7/5 1010 Vienna Phone hours Mon–Thu 8:30–18:30 Fri 8:30–17:30 Contact 01 358 31 00 Google Maps Who is it for? Children and teenagers aged between 6 and 18 whose severe misalignment means they meet the requirements for free braces (covered by Austrian public health insurance). What happens at the appointment? Duration: 10 minutes Medical history Orthodontic examination IOTN assessment (Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need) Consultation Please bring your e-card (Austrian health insurance card)! Our specialists Prim. Dr. Lutz Hodecker Dr. Valerie Pontius Your benefits ✓ Free consultation ✓ Free treatment ✓ Severe misalignments Book an appointment Children & teenagers Invisible aligners Address Eltz Institut für Zahnregulierung Dorotheergasse 7/5 1010 Vienna Phone hours Mon–Thu 8:30–18:30 Fri 8:30–17:30 Contact 01 358 31 00 Google Maps Who is it for? Children and teenagers with mild to severe misalignment who would like an invisible, comfortable treatment method with no restrictions in everyday life. What happens at the appointment? Duration: 30 minutes Medical history Orthodontic examination Consultation Start of treatment (optional) Our specialists Prim. Dr. Lutz Hodecker Dr. Valerie Pontius Your benefits ✓ Personal consultation ✓ 5D diagnostics ✓ 3D simulation ✓ Invisible aligners ✓ All misalignments ✓ 0% instalment plan ✓ Discount for paying upfront Book an appointment Adults Orthodontic treatment for adults Address Eltz Institut für Zahnregulierung Dorotheergasse 7/5 1010 Vienna Phone hours Mon–Thu 8:30–18:30 Fri 8:30–17:30 Contact 01 358 31 00 Google Maps Who is it for? Adults of any age who would like to improve the position of their teeth, whether for aesthetic or health reasons. What happens at the appointment? Duration: 30 minutes Medical history Orthodontic examination Consultation Start of treatment (optional) Our specialists Prim. Dr. Lutz Hodecker Dr. Valerie Pontius Your benefits ✓ Free consultation ✓ 5D diagnostics ✓ 3D simulation ✓ Invisible aligners ✓ All misalignments ✓ 0% instalment plan ✓ Discount for paying upfront Book an appointment All age groups Jaw joint (TMJ) therapy Address Eltz Institut für Zahnregulierung Dorotheergasse 7/5 1010 Vienna Phone hours Mon–Thu 8:30–18:30 Fri 8:30–17:30 Contact 01 358 31 00 Google Maps Who is it for? Patients of any age who suffer from jaw joint problems or functional limitations. What happens at the appointment? Duration: 30 minutes Medical history Examination of the jaw joint Consultation Our specialists Prim. Dr. Lutz Hodecker Dr. Valerie Pontius Your benefits ✓ Personal consultation ✓ 5D diagnostics ✓ Short duration 01 358 3181 All age groups Combined orthodonticand surgical treatment Address Eltz Institut für Zahnregulierung Dorotheergasse 7/5 1010 Vienna Phone hours Mon–Thu 8:30–18:30 Fri 8:30–17:30 Contact 01 358 31 00 Google Maps Who is it for? Patients of any age with complex dental and jaw misalignments who need combined orthodontic and surgical treatment (orthognathic surgery). What happens at the appointment? Duration: 30 minutes Medical history Examination Consultation Start of treatment (optional) Our specialists Prim. Dr. Lutz Hodecker Dr. Valerie Pontius Your benefits ✓ Free consultation ✓ 5D diagnostics ✓ All methods ✓ All misalignments ✓ 0% instalment plan ✓ Discount for paying upfront ✓ Close cooperation with oral and maxillofacial surgeons Book an appointment Number 1 on Doctify: We always make it happen:Your dream smile – simply, quickly & gently! Free consultation, short treatment times, all methods, affordable instalment plans, support with your health insurance & private insurance. Book your appointment with us today! Yours, Prim. Dr. Lutz Hodecker Cookie consent We ask for your consent to the storage of cookies. Marketing cookies are only used once you have given your consent. Learn more decline accept Autumn offer Your dream smile – invisibly, quickly & gently We have opened extra consultation slots – for adults & children. Come to your free consultation in a relaxed atmosphere and get started with your new, invisible braces. Free & no obligation – for every age 0% instalment plan Start this autumn – invisible & gentle Book an appointment Close 01 358 31 01 / Make an appointment