Frequently Asked Questions

A first check-up is recommended between the ages of 6 and 8. At this age, misalignments can be detected early and treated if necessary. During the check-up we assess the function of the milk teeth, the available space, how the first permanent teeth meet, and the jaw position. Even if no action is needed yet, an early examination provides reassurance – and in most cases it is already clear whether treatment will be advisable later.

Because prevention is always better than treatment. An early look allows us to identify harmful habits before they have a lasting effect on jaw and tooth development. The most common include thumb sucking, lip biting or tongue thrusting, and mouth breathing instead of correct nasal breathing. Where necessary, we work closely with an interdisciplinary network – made up of specialists in speech therapy, paediatrics and ENT – to treat these habits effectively and sustainably.

Not every misalignment requires treatment. At the initial examination, we carefully assess the situation and explain clearly whether and when treatment would be beneficial. You then decide at your own pace.

Myobrace® is an early orthodontic treatment for children from about age 3. A soft, removable appliance is worn for one to two hours a day plus overnight and combined with short daily exercises. The aim is to correct mouth breathing, low tongue posture, an incorrect swallowing pattern and thumb sucking – the habits behind narrow jaws and crooked teeth in many children. Whether Myobrace® makes sense for your child is something the first examination shows; with more pronounced misalignment, fixed braces or aligner treatment will still be needed later, but usually simpler and shorter.

Yes – orthodontic treatment is possible and worthwhile at any age. Many adults consciously choose to correct a misalignment that has been with them for a long time. With many years of experience in treating adults, the latest expertise and modern treatment techniques, almost any correction can today be carried out discreetly and comfortably – without it being noticeable in everyday life. We discuss your individual situation and find the right solution together.

The duration of treatment depends on the type and extent of the correction needed. For children and teenagers, active treatment typically lasts 12 to 24 months – with early treatment often making the therapy considerably simpler and shorter. We discuss the expected duration individually in the treatment plan.

There are fixed braces (brackets), removable appliances and clear aligners. The most suitable method depends on the misalignment, age and individual preferences. We advise you in detail.

In many cases, yes. Clear aligners can be a good option for teenagers, particularly for mild to moderate misalignments. Whether aligners are suitable in a specific case is assessed during the examination.

That depends on where you live. Patients who live close to the practice usually come in for a short check-up every 4 to 8 weeks during active treatment. Everyone else is followed with Dental Monitoring: you scan your teeth once a week at home with your smartphone, we review every scan – and you come to the practice only when there is a specific reason.

Dental Monitoring is remote supervision of your treatment: once a week you take a scan of your teeth at home with your smartphone and the Dental Monitoring app. The images are analysed automatically and reviewed by Dr. Koychev. That lets us see continuously whether the teeth are moving as planned, whether the next aligner can go in or whether something is not sitting right – and react immediately instead of waiting for the next appointment. It saves journeys and time off school or work, and treatment can often be completed earlier. We use Dental Monitoring for all patients who do not live in the immediate vicinity of the practice. It is included in the treatment price.

After the active treatment phase, retainers ensure that the teeth remain in their new position. A fixed retainer, a removable retainer, or both are common solutions. We support you throughout this phase as well.

Costs depend on the type of treatment, its duration and complexity. After the initial examination, you will receive a transparent cost estimate. We explain all costs clearly and discuss the options with you.

In Switzerland, mandatory health insurance only covers orthodontic treatments in certain, clearly defined medical cases. For children and teenagers, supplementary insurance may cover part of the costs. Get in touch – we are happy to discuss your situation personally and find a suitable solution together.

Typical ranges: a removable appliance for early treatment CHF 3,000–4,000, fixed braces CHF 6,000–12,000 for a complete treatment, clear aligners CHF 4,000–10,000. Basic health insurance covers orthodontics only in rare, medically defined cases; the IV (disability insurance) covers recognised congenital conditions if registered before the 20th birthday; supplementary dental insurance often covers a large share for children. You receive a written estimate after the first examination.

Yes. Costs are spread across the course of treatment, so no large one-off payment is needed. The terms are stated in the written estimate.

At the initial appointment we get to know you and your concerns, carry out a careful examination and explain our assessment clearly. There is no pressure – you receive a clear recommendation and can decide at your own pace.

SmileHouse is at Bahnhofstrasse 3, 6285 Hitzkirch, canton of Lucerne – right on the S9 Lucerne–Lenzburg line. Patients come from the whole Seetal (Hochdorf, Gelfingen, Baldegg, Ermensee, Mosen, Beinwil am See), from Muri and the Freiamt, and from the city and region of Lucerne.

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 8:00–13:00 and 14:00–17:00; Tuesday 8:00–13:00 and 14:00–19:00. The late Tuesday is meant for appointments after school or work.

No. The first consultation needs no referral and commits you to nothing. Book online or call; bring your insurance card. The first visit takes about 30 minutes.