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- What is Orthodontic Treatment?
- 6 Benefits of the 3D-LST System
- Orthodontic Treatment Process for Beginners
- Examples of Treatment Cases
- Orthodontic Treatment with 3D-LST for Thumb Sucking, Nail Biting, Tongue Thrusting, and Mouth Breathing
- Dental Alignment and Self-Cleaning Effects
- Orthodontic Treatment vs. Dentures
- Extraction vs. Non-Extraction
- Cost of Permanent Teeth Orthodontic Treatment
- Cost of Preventive Orthodontic Treatment for Children
What is Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontics is the treatment of misaligned teeth while preserving your natural teeth. Misaligned teeth such as
protruding teeth, crowded teeth, and crossbite can lead to plaque accumulation, which is difficult to remove,
increasing the risk of cavities and periodontal disease, and potentially resulting in tooth loss as you age.
Improving the alignment of your teeth not only enhances the oral environment but also contributes to improving lifestyle habits and internal health, promoting overall health maintenance and enhancement.
The treatment involves placing an appliance in your mouth to apply constant pressure to the teeth, thereby artificially moving them to correct misalignment and bite issues.
At our clinic, you can receive orthodontic treatment from a dentist who has mastered the advanced 3D LST system at an affordable price.
We offer free consultations regarding orthodontics, so if you are considering improving your teeth alignment, please feel free to consult us.
6 Benefits of the 3D-LST System
① Minimal harm to the body, especially little to no root resorption.
Orthodontic treatment applies corrective force to the teeth with wires, which
can cause root resorption, shortening the roots. However, the 3D-LST system, which uses a weak corrective force,
allows for orthodontic treatment without causing root resorption.
3D-LST (3D Lightforce Sliding Technique) is an
orthodontic treatment technique independently developed by Mr. Hiroki Hirabayashi, President of the Japan
Physiological Orthodontic Society. At our clinic, orthodontic treatment is performed by dentists who have mastered
the 3D-LST technique.
② Reduced pain during orthodontic treatment
The 3D-LST system uses thin wires and weak corrective force, resulting in
minimal pain during the initial stages of treatment.
③ Shorter treatment time and duration
The 3D-LST system enables efficient and ideal tooth movement, significantly
reducing both chair time and overall treatment duration.
④ Realization of lower treatment costs
By introducing the 3D-LST system and pursuing rational orthodontic treatment,
the treatment period can be shortened, eliminating the need for expensive special materials like implants, thus
significantly reducing orthodontic treatment costs. This allows us to offer orthodontic treatment at a more
affordable price. As a family benefit, we offer a discount of 20,000 yen for the second and subsequent family
members. Please refer to the price list.
⑤ Aesthetic orthodontic treatment
We use standard white aesthetic brackets, which are much less noticeable than
regular orthodontic appliances. Additionally, for those who want even less visible options, we offer white-coated
wires (38,000 yen) and ceramic brackets (32,000 yen for the upper jaw only) as options.
⑥ Treatment of thumb sucking that hinders orthodontic treatment
Strong functional disorders, such as thumb sucking and habits of biting the
tongue or lips, can affect tooth alignment and hinder orthodontic treatment. At our clinic, hygienists trained in
myofunctional therapy (MFT) treat these functional disorders.
Orthodontic Process for First-Timers
How do you start orthodontic treatment? A simple chart to understand the orthodontic treatment process.
Please feel free to consult us
First, please take advantage of our free consultation for a professional
diagnosis.
We will not force you into treatment after the free consultation.
In many cases, it may be determined that orthodontic treatment is unnecessary after several months of follow-up
observation.
Introducing Some Treatment Cases
Irregular Teeth Alignment (Crowding)
Teens / Female / Cost: 643,400 yen (tax included)
(Estimated total treatment cost under the current new price list: 490,000
yen)
Irregular Teeth Alignment (Crowding)
20s / Female / Cost: 690,000 yen (tax included)
(Estimated total treatment cost under the current new price list: 560,000
yen)
Irregular Teeth Alignment (Crowding)
20s / Female / Cost: 650,000 yen (tax included)
(Estimated total treatment cost under the current new price list: 560,000
yen)
Protruding Upper Front Teeth (Overjet)
Teens / Female / Cost: 606,000 yen (tax included)
(Estimated total treatment cost under the current new price list: 506,000
yen)
Protruding Upper Front Teeth (Overjet)
30s / Female / Cost: 602,000 yen (tax included)
(Estimated total treatment cost under the current new price list: 522,000
yen)
Protruding Upper Front Teeth (Overjet)
20s / Female / Cost: 617,000 yen (tax included)
(Estimated total treatment cost under the current new price list: 522,000
yen)
Protruding Lower Front Teeth (Underbite)
20s / Female / Cost: 585,000 yen (tax included)
(Estimated total treatment cost under the current new price list: 490,000
yen)
Protruding Lower Front Teeth (Underbite)
20s / Female / Cost: 679,400 yen (tax included)
(Estimated total treatment cost under the current new price list: 506,000
yen)
Protruding Lower Front Teeth (Underbite)
Teens / Female / Cost: 586,000 yen (tax included)
(Estimated total treatment cost under the current new price list: 506,000
yen)
Front Teeth Cannot Close (Open Bite)
40s / Male / Cost: 713,400 yen (tax included)
(Estimated total treatment cost under the current new price list: 522,000
yen)
Missing Permanent Teeth (Congenital Absence)
Teens / Female / Cost: 643,000 yen (tax included)
(Estimated total treatment cost under the current new price list: 514,000
yen)
Missing Permanent Teeth (Congenital Absence)
Teens / Male / Cost: 643,000 yen (tax included)
(Estimated total treatment cost under the current new price list: 514,000
yen)
Finger Sucking, Nail Biting, Tongue Thrusting, Mouth Breathing, and 3D-LST Orthodontic Treatment
Did you know that oral habits like thumb sucking, nail biting, tongue thrusting, and mouth breathing can affect the
alignment of your teeth? These habits are quite common among children these days.
The way of swallowing differs between babies who do not yet have teeth and older children (and adults) with a
complete set of primary teeth.
Babies swallow while sticking their tongue out and keeping the nipple in their mouth. However, people with fully
erupted teeth normally swallow by placing their tongue on the roof of their mouth, biting with their molars, and
closing their lips.
However, many children, even though they have fully erupted teeth, still use the swallowing method of babies, as
seen in this photo.
I am a school dentist for local kindergartens, elementary schools, and junior
high schools. I continuously observe children from about 3 to 15 years old. Children with abnormal swallowing habits
are a majority in kindergartens, about half in elementary schools, and around 30% remain in junior high school.
Primary teeth are completed by age two and a half, so ideally, the baby’s swallowing habit should be graduated, but
many children nowadays seem to be quite delayed in this regard.
This photo is of a woman in her 40s. Due to the habit of pushing her upper front
teeth with her tongue, her upper front teeth have protruded. The pushed teeth have become loose due to periodontal
disease. After explaining this and receiving good understanding, the looseness stopped, and her condition returned
to normal. However, in most cases, just explaining with words is not enough to improve the habit, so training to
eliminate these oral habits (myofunctional therapy: MFT) is conducted.
Training to eliminate oral habits (MFT) reduces the risk of periodontal
disease.
This photo is of an 80-year-old woman. She also had the habit of pressing her
upper teeth with her tongue while swallowing. As a result, her front teeth became loose and fell out. This photo
shows her teeth after the preparation for bridge installation. Some people do not graduate from baby swallowing
habits even as they age. It is crucial to correct these habits at a young age. Elderly people who choke while
swallowing may become more susceptible to colds and pneumonia. If this choking tendency progresses, they may not be
able to eat orally. In such cases, a tube is inserted through the nose for enteral nutrition, or sometimes a small
hole is made in the stomach for direct feeding, known as a gastrostomy.
Training to eliminate such oral habits (MFT) may also reduce the risk of
swallowing disorders.
In particular, for 3D-LST orthodontic treatment, we perform MFT oral functional
therapy along with the treatment to complete it as early and as beautifully as possible for patients with swallowing
habits. Although it is not yet common in Japan, it has significant therapeutic implications. If you suspect you have
such habits, please feel free to consult us.
Teeth Alignment and Self-Cleaning Function
The two molars on the inner side of this person’s lower jaw had cavities
progressing gradually. Although brushing was always thorough, it ended up requiring crowns. When teeth are
misaligned, cavities and periodontal disease can progress despite thorough brushing and regular checkups.
Brushing is necessary for hygiene, but even without brushing, teeth have a certain degree of self-cleaning structure and function. This is crucial for prolonging the life of teeth.
Self-Cleaning by Lips, Cheeks, and Tongue i

Self-Cleaning by Food ii
For example, the cusps of the upper teeth interlock with the depressions of the lower
teeth, grinding food and allowing it to flow over the tooth surfaces.
In this way, when teeth interlock (red arrows), food flows over the tooth surfaces (blue arrows), automatically
cleaning them.
When Misalignment Prevents Self-Cleaning Functions i. ii…
When teeth are misaligned, even with careful brushing, plaque cannot be completely
removed, and fibrous foods are more likely to get stuck (× mark), leading to the progression of cavities and
periodontal disease to adjacent teeth, increasing the risk of tooth loss.
Misaligned Front Teeth Are More Prone to Staining…
☆We recommend orthodontic treatment to improve tooth alignment.
Orthodontic Treatment vs. Dental Crowns
When correcting an underbite (protruding lower jaw)
with dental crowns, it is necessary to make only the crown portion of the crown extend further forward
than the lower front teeth because the position of the tooth roots cannot be changed. (Figure 1 red line)
In the case of an underbite, the lower front teeth are typically positioned forward, so the upper teeth need to be
made even further forward, making the work quite challenging to finish beautifully.
With crown-based treatment, due to the difference in the direction of the crown and tooth root, occlusal forces can
act inappropriately, leading to a tendency for shorter tooth lifespan.
In contrast, orthodontic treatment corrects the positional relationship of the upper and lower teeth to normal
positions, resulting in a neat finish and longer-lasting teeth.
When correcting protruding front teeth with dental crowns, since the
position of the tooth roots cannot be changed, only the crown of the crown needs to be made to match the lower front
teeth and positioned towards the back. (Figure 2 red line)
However, the incisal edges of the lower front teeth often collide strongly, making it quite challenging to achieve a
neat finish.
Additionally, occlusion issues can affect the temporomandibular joint (and may impact respiratory function).
In contrast, orthodontic treatment aligns the positional relationship of the upper and lower teeth, resulting in a
neat finish and longer-lasting teeth.
When correcting crowded teeth (crooked teeth) with dental crowns, as with
the cases above, the position of the tooth roots cannot be changed. Additionally, balancing the width of the teeth
on both sides is not possible, making it quite challenging to achieve a neat finish. (See photo)
The lack of self-cleaning function, combined with the difference in direction between the crown and tooth root,
leads to inappropriate occlusal forces and a tendency for shorter tooth lifespan.
In contrast, orthodontic treatment corrects the positional relationships of teeth in all directions, resulting in a
neat finish and longer-lasting teeth.
Orthodontic Treatment vs. Dental Crowns is more beneficial to maintain
the health and beauty of teeth if orthodontic treatment is done before reaching the age where dental crowns are
considered. This is advantageous both in terms of dental health and medical costs. (Please refer to the fee chart
for simulation of orthodontic treatment costs and aesthetic dental ceramics.) Our clinic provides standard treatment
for the balance and occlusion of both front and back teeth. Please consult us.
Extraction vs. Non-Extraction
For patients who wish to improve their teeth alignment, extraction is something they would prefer to avoid if possible.
Consider people sitting on a long bench: It’s not good if someone’s body hangs off the bench, nor is it ideal if people sit in a way that creates gaps. If we compare the long bench to the jaw and people to teeth, we would like everyone to sit in a balanced and neat manner.
Deciding whether extraction is necessary and which tooth to extract is determined through X-ray analysis. (Of course, there are cases where extraction is not required.)
In addition to aligning the front teeth neatly, it is essential to ensure proper function of the bite between the upper and lower teeth.
To finish treatment smoothly without prolonging the treatment period helps reduce the burden on patients.
Considering these factors comprehensively, we make a diagnosis and develop a treatment plan for “extraction vs. non-extraction.”
We understand that this may be challenging for patients, but we ask for your understanding and cooperation.
Cost of Permanent Teeth Orthodontic Treatment
Step 1: Initial Consultation, Examination, and Diagnosis
Item | Details | Price (including tax) |
---|---|---|
Initial Consultation | Basic examination and explanation from the dentist Brushing instruction |
Free |
Detailed Examination Analysis and Diagnosis Counseling |
Oral models / Various X-rays / Functional tests Oral examination / Photos / Record creation Diagnosis through cephalometric analysis Treatment explanation from the dentist |
20,000 yen |
Step 2: Orthodontic Treatment Costs
Item | Details | Price (including tax) |
---|---|---|
Basic Treatment Fee + Appliance Cost | Clear brackets Metal wires used |
330,000 yen |
Follow-Up | Monthly management and adjustment fee (from the following month) | 5,000 yen |
- Tooth extraction is 8,000 yen per tooth (including tax)
- White coated wires that are less noticeable than metal color are 38,000 yen (upper and lower) (including tax)
- Ceramic brackets (upper only) 32,000 yen (including tax)
Step 3: Retention
Item | Details | Price (including tax) |
---|---|---|
Retention Appliance Cost | Device to prevent relapse | 20,000 yen |
Retention Follow-Up | Only at the time of visit after dynamic treatment | 3,000 yen |
Simulation of Total Treatment Cost (For a 2-year orthodontic treatment and including retention appliance…)
<For Our Clinic>
Examination and diagnosis fee 20,000 yen + Appliance cost 330,000 yen + Adjustment fee 120,000 yen (24 months) +
Retention appliance cost 20,000 yen = 490,000 yen (including tax) (additional options not included)
<Average Total Treatment Cost>
Examination and diagnosis fee 30,000 yen + Appliance cost 500,000 to 700,000 yen + Adjustment fee 240,000 yen (24
months) + Retention appliance cost 50,000 yen = 820,000 to 1,020,000 yen (excluding tax)
(Including tax, this amounts to 900,000 to 1,120,000 yen)
Our clinic can complete treatment without implants or removable appliances, which helps to reduce the total cost. We display prices including tax to provide a low-cost and reassuring treatment experience for everyone.
Cost of Preventive Orthodontic Treatment for Children
As children grow, we monitor and guide their jaw development to prevent it from becoming too large or stopping
growing altogether.
In cases where the jaw becomes too large, general practitioners may not be able to handle it, and jaw surgery may be
required.
Additionally, cases where the upper and lower jaws are either too large or too small make treatment with crowns very
difficult.
Please consult with us first.
If necessary, we will perform detailed examinations, analysis, and diagnosis using X-rays before starting preventive
orthodontic treatment.
Teeth Alignment and Human Evolution
The Jomon people had broad dental arches and well-aligned teeth, but from the Yayoi period, changes in jaw and tooth
shape began.
As tools evolved from stone to clay to iron, and cooking techniques advanced to accommodate chopsticks, softer foods
became more common.
Consequently, dental alignment gradually worsened.
Due to the genetic influence of the Yayoi people who migrated here, modern humans have larger teeth but prefer soft
foods, resulting in underdeveloped jaws and insufficient space for teeth.
Misalignment of teeth → Cavities, periodontal disease, temporomandibular joint disorder
Small jaws → Smaller oral volume → Sleep apnea syndrome → Severe internal medical conditions
Tongue habits, swallowing without chewing → Affects dental alignment, choking, swallowing difficulties in elderly
individuals
TV and smartphone generations who swallow without chewing tend to act on superficial knowledge and take information
at face value.
Chewing well stimulates the brain and aids in cognitive development.
To counteract misalignment, focus on chewing natural foods rather than factory-produced or conveyor belt items.
Habit of Chewing Well
- Eat with Your Eyes
Take a good look at the food your mother made for you!
- Eat with Your Nose
Smell the aroma of the food.
- Eat with Your Mouth
When you chew well, the texture of the food releases its delicious flavor.
Avoid eating only on one side. Alternate between right and left sides. Cycle through rice → side dishes → soup.
Swallowing without chewing prevents proper digestion and absorption. Breaking down food into smaller pieces and mixing with saliva, which is digestive fluid, helps in digestion and absorption.
Step 1: Initial Consultation, Examination, and Diagnosis
Item | Details | Price (including tax) |
---|---|---|
Initial Consultation | Basic examination and explanation from the dentist Brushing instruction |
Free |
Detailed Examination Analysis and Diagnosis Counseling |
Oral models / Various X-rays / Functional tests Oral examination / Photos / Record creation Diagnosis through cephalometric analysis Treatment explanation from the dentist |
20,000 yen |
Step 2: Preventive Orthodontic Treatment Costs
Item | Details | Price (including tax) |
---|---|---|
A. Teeth Alignment Treatment | General treatment | 180,000 yen |
B. Skeletal Treatment | In cases of jaw deformities or anticipated deformities in the future (e.g., skeletal genetic reverse occlusion) |
180,000 yen |
Follow-Up | Monthly management | 5,000 yen |
Step 3: Retention
Item | Details | Price (including tax) |
---|---|---|
Retention Appliance Cost | Device to prevent relapse | 20,000 yen |
Retention Follow-Up | Only at the time of visit after dynamic treatment | 3,000 yen |
Step 4: Transition to Permanent Teeth Stage
If teeth are too large or cannot be corrected with just pediatric orthodontics, the treatment will transition to
overall permanent teeth treatment.
In this case, an additional treatment cost of 150,000 yen will be required.