Frequently asked questions about orthodontics

Dr. Ana Pérez is a dentist and orthodontist with more than 12 years of experience. She practices in north Bogotá (Autopista Norte #106-71, Vihara 106 building, office 201) and is certified in the Invisalign and Smartee clear aligner systems.

She offers clear aligner treatment with Invisalign and Smartee, children's and teen orthodontics (including dentofacial orthopedics), aesthetic braces and conventional orthodontics. Dental cleaning and teeth whitening are also available as complementary services. Every treatment starts with a consultation to define the right option for each case.

Yes. During the consultation Dr. Ana evaluates the position of your teeth and your bite, explains the options available and gives you an estimated duration and cost for your case. Orthodontic treatment requires diagnosis, planning and professional follow-up, and shouldn't start without that evaluation.

The cost depends on the type of treatment (aligners, braces or orthopedics) and on how complex each case is, so it isn't possible to quote a price without an evaluation. At the consultation you receive estimated costs for the options that apply to your case so you can compare them clearly.

It depends on the complexity of the case, the tooth movements needed and how each patient responds, including how consistently instructions are followed. That's why no fixed number of months is promised: you get an estimated duration at the consultation, and it is reviewed at every check-up.

The office is in the Vihara 106 building, Autopista Norte #106-71, office 201, in north Bogotá. Hours are Monday 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m., and Thursday, Friday and Saturday 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. The office is closed Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday.

You can message the office on WhatsApp at +57 300 146 1018, pick a time in the online booking calendar on this website, or leave your details in the contact form and the office will call you.

Clear aligner treatment moves teeth gradually with a series of transparent, removable trays custom-made from a digital plan. They are very discreet, come out for eating and brushing, and the orthodontist checks regularly that your teeth are moving as planned.

Invisalign and Smartee are two clear aligner systems. Both use digital planning and aligners that are changed in stages. Dr. Ana is certified in both and, after your consultation, recommends the one that best fits your diagnosis and goals; neither is the best choice for every case.

No. Many cases of crowding, gaps or mild-to-moderate bite issues can be treated with aligners, but some complex cases are better solved with braces or other options. The consultation determines whether you are a candidate and which option makes the most sense.

Aligners are generally worn most of the day and night and only removed to eat, drink anything other than water, and brush. Your orthodontist tells you the exact number of hours for your plan; consistency is key for treatment to progress as planned.

It's common to feel pressure or mild discomfort for the first few days of each new set of aligners, which usually passes quickly. If you feel intense pain, an edge that cuts, or any discomfort that doesn't improve, contact the office.

Orthodontic associations such as the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommend a first check-up around age 7. That doesn't mean every child needs treatment at that age: the visit shows whether it's better to act now, wait, or simply monitor.

It's treatment for growing children that aims to guide the development of the jaws and bite with appliances, usually before all permanent teeth have come in. It's recommended based on the diagnosis and can simplify or complement later orthodontic treatment.

Signs include very crowded or widely spaced teeth, a crossbite, upper teeth that stick out, frequent mouth breathing, thumb-sucking beyond the early years, or losing baby teeth much earlier or later than usual. If you notice any of these, a consultation is a good idea.

They are fixed braces made from a tooth-colored or clear material, so they are less noticeable than traditional metal braces. They work on the same principle as conventional orthodontics and are chosen based on each patient's diagnosis.

Neither option is best for everyone. Aligners are removable and very discreet; braces are fixed and remain a solid option, including for complex cases. The choice depends on your teeth, your bite, your habits and your preferences, and is made at the consultation.