Dedicated page: You'll find all the details on aligners, fixed braces, costs and the process at kfo.clinic.
Your Dentist
Dr. Lena-Maria Merkle, an employed dentist specialising in orthodontics and aligner therapy, carries out the orthodontic treatments. For children, she works closely with Dr. Ricarda Müller (paediatric dentistry); for adults with dental-prosthetics questions, with Dr. Strößner.
Aligners: the almost invisible way to straighten teeth
Clear aligners move the teeth step by step into the planned position. They are worn for 22 hours a day, removed for eating and brushing, and changed every one to two weeks. A digital 3D simulation shows the planned outcome in advance. Aligners are suitable for mild to moderate misalignments in adolescents and adults; for pronounced jaw misalignments, a fixed brace or combined treatment makes more sense – we clarify this during the examination.
Children and adolescents: when is the right time?
We recommend a first orthodontic assessment at around 8 to 9 years of age, once the first permanent teeth are in. Many treatments, however, only begin between the ages of 10 and 13, during the mixed dentition stage. For children and young people under 18 with statutory health insurance, insurers cover treatment if there is a misalignment falling into orthodontic indication group 3 to 5 (KIG); with KIG 1 and 2, as well as for adults, this is generally a private service (exception: severe jaw abnormalities requiring combined orthodontic-surgical treatment, Section 28(2) of the German Social Code Book V (SGB V)), for which you will receive a treatment and cost plan in advance.
Adults
Even at 40, 50 or 60, teeth can still be moved. Common reasons include: crowding at the front, gaps before implant placement, preparation for dental prosthetics, or gum problems caused by uneven loading. Aligners are especially popular here, because they are barely noticeable in everyday life.
Process
- Examination, photos, digital scan (no physical impression) and, if necessary, X-rays
- Treatment plan with cost overview and KIG classification
- Treatment with aligners, a removable or a fixed brace; check-ups every 6–8 weeks
- Stabilisation (retention) with a retainer or night splint
Request an orthodontic assessment appointment
In addition to the brace, regular prophylaxis appointments are part of the treatment – especially with fixed braces.
Professionally responsible: Dr. med. dent. M.Sc. Sandro Strößner, dentist, Master of Science in Oral Implantology and Periodontology · Last reviewed: September 2026. These texts provide general information and do not replace an examination.
Video
Briefly explained – from our practice
The videos provide general information and do not replace individual advice; the course and outcome of treatment depend on personal circumstances. All videos have subtitles. More in our media library and on Instagram.
