What Is Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment moves crooked, crowded or misplaced teeth into a better position using braces or aligners. It improves your smile, makes teeth easier to clean, and helps your bite work properly. Treatment usually takes 12 to 30 months, depending on the case.
Problems That Braces Can Fix
- Crowded or crooked teeth
- Gaps between the teeth
- Overbite, where upper teeth stick out
- Underbite, where lower teeth sit ahead of the upper teeth
- Crossbite and open bite
- Teeth that bite the gum or do not meet properly
Types of Braces and Aligners
- Metal braces. Strong and affordable. They are the most common.
- Ceramic braces. Tooth-coloured and less visible.
- Self-ligating braces. Use a built-in clip instead of rubber bands.
- Clear aligners. Removable clear trays that move teeth step by step.
What Is the Right Age for Braces?
- Age 7 or so: A first checkup lets the dentist spot jaw and bite problems early.
- Age 11 to 14: The most common time for braces, when most permanent teeth are in.
- Adults: Braces work at any age if the teeth and gums are healthy.
How Treatment Works
- Consultation and records. X-rays, photos and impressions or scans are taken.
- Treatment plan. You are told the type of braces, the duration and the cost.
- Preparation. Cavities and gum problems are treated. Sometimes teeth need to be removed to make space.
- Fitting. Braces are attached or aligners are given. This is painless.
- Adjustment visits. Visits about once a month for adjustments.
- Retainers. After the braces come off, retainers keep teeth in position.
Comfort and Care During Treatment
Teeth can feel sore for a few days after fitting and after adjustments. Soft food, a soft brush and orthodontic wax for sharp spots help.
- Brush after every meal and use a small brush to clean around the brackets
- Avoid sticky, hard and chewy foods such as toffee, ice and hard nuts
- Do not skip appointments, since this lengthens treatment
- Wear aligners or retainers as advised, usually 20 to 22 hours a day for aligners
Why Retainers Matter
Teeth tend to move back after braces. Wearing a retainer as advised keeps the result. Skipping it is the most common reason for teeth to shift again.
How Long Does Treatment Take?
Most treatments take 12 to 30 months. Simple cases can finish sooner. Complex cases and cases involving jaw growth can take longer.
Why Choose OrthoD Hospital
- A clear plan, timeline and cost before treatment starts
- Monthly visits that fit around school and work
- General dental care for the whole family in the same place
Braces Cost
The cost depends on the type of braces, how complex your case is, the length of treatment and whether extra procedures such as extractions are needed. You get a written estimate after the examination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do braces hurt?
Fitting is painless. Teeth may feel sore for a few days after adjustments, and this settles.
How long do I need to wear braces?
Usually 12 to 30 months.
Can adults get braces?
Yes. Many adults have braces or aligners.
Are clear aligners as good as braces?
They work well for mild to moderate cases. Complex cases may need braces. Your dentist will advise.
Do I need to remove teeth for braces?
Not always. It depends on how crowded the teeth are.
What happens if I stop wearing my retainer?
Your teeth may slowly move back.