Dental braces are orthodontic devices that are used to correct alignment of the teeth and bite issues, and improve overall oral health in many ways such as improve chewing, speech and jaw alignment. Dental braces work by application of gentle pressure that gradually moves the teeth into their ideal position.
Braces may be recommended to correct problems with tooth alignment, spacing, bite, and jaw position, improving both oral function and long-term dental health.
01
When teeth overlap or twist because there isn’t enough space in the jaw, making brushing and flossing difficult and increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
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When there are noticeable spaces between teeth, which may contribute to food lodgement, gum irritation, or concerns about the appearance of your smile.
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When the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth more than normal, potentially contributing to tooth wear, chewing difficulties, or jaw discomfort.
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When the lower teeth extend in front of the upper teeth, which can affect chewing, speech, and overall facial balance.
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When one or more upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth, potentially causing uneven tooth wear, gum recession, or jaw discomfort.
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When some upper and lower teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed, which may affect biting, chewing, and speech.
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When the teeth or jaws are not properly aligned, potentially contributing to jaw pain, clicking, headaches, or difficulty with normal jaw function.
1. Metal Braces (Traditional Braces)
Metal braces are made of high-grade stainless-steel metal and are the most time-tested braces till now. These are affordable, most used and consist of brackets and wires that guide the teeth into proper alignment.
• Pros: Affordable, highly effective for all types of dental misalignments.
• Cons: Visible, causes difficulty in chewing food and non-aesthetic choice.
2. Ceramic Braces
These braces are made from tooth-colored material and produce the same effects as stainless steel braces.
• Pros: Aesthetically pleasing, ideal for older teens and adults.
• Cons: Slightly more expensive and may stain without proper care.
3. Lingual Braces
These braces are not visible on the outer side of the teeth as they are placed on the inner (lingual) side of the teeth.
• Pros: Hidden from view, suitable for professionals and those in public-facing roles.
• Cons: these braces are difficult to get adjusted to and may be difficult to clean.
4. Clear Aligners (Invisalign and others)
These are custom-made, removable, and transparent aligners/ trays that fit snugly over the teeth. Each of the aligners are worn for a specific period, usually they are changed every 1–2 weeks and gradually shifts the teeth into alignment.
• Pros: Virtually invisible, removable, comfortable, faster results as compared to traditional braces.
• Cons: More expensive than traditional braces. They are suitable only for treating mild to moderate tooth misalignment and not suitable for severe cases of bite alignment and vertical tooth alignment.
Dental braces can improve tooth alignment and bite while making oral hygiene easier and supporting a healthier, more confident smile.
Braces help correct bite and jaw alignment, improving chewing function and supporting better overall oral function.
Correcting dental misalignment can make oral hygiene easier, improve speech, and reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, enamel wear, jaw discomfort, and future tooth loss.
Braces correct tooth and jaw alignment to improve facial harmony and smile aesthetics, helping boost confidence in social and professional settings.
Orthodontic treatment involves assessing your teeth and jaw, preparing your oral health, placing and adjusting the braces, and retaining the results once the desired alignment is achieved.
Consultation & Treatment Planning
During the first visit, the orthodontist evaluates the teeth and jaw through clinical and radiological examination, dental X-rays, and, when required, dental impressions or 3D scans. Based on your alignment needs, lifestyle, budget, and desired results, suitable orthodontic treatment options are recommended.
Pre-Braces Oral Health Preparation
Before starting orthodontic treatment, the orthodontist ensures that your oral health is addressed. This may include treating cavities, managing gum disease, removing wisdom teeth when indicated, or extracting premolars in selected cases of crowding. Good oral health helps support a smoother orthodontic treatment.
Braces Placement
The teeth are thoroughly cleaned before the brackets are bonded to their surfaces. Depending on the selected treatment, metallic or ceramic brackets are placed and connected using an orthodontic arch-wire secured with ligatures or rubber bands. The orthodontist then makes the necessary adjustments to achieve the desired alignment.
Treatment time: Approximately 45–90 minutes
The procedure is generally painless, although pressure may be felt during placement. Mild soreness, chewing discomfort, or slight speech changes may occur for a few days while you adjust to the braces.
Orthodontic Adjustment Appointments
Regular appointments are usually scheduled every 4–6 weeks to monitor tooth movement and treatment progress. During these visits, the orthodontist may adjust or replace the arch-wire and ligatures and address any loose or broken brackets to gradually guide the teeth into their desired positions.
Completion & Braces Removal
Once the desired tooth alignment is achieved, usually within 12–24 months, the braces, brackets, and wires are gently removed. Final impressions or digital scans may then be taken to create a customised retainer to help maintain the achieved tooth position.
Retainer Fitting & Post-Braces Care
Once the custom retainer is ready, the patient returns for fitting. Retainers may be fixed or removable and help prevent the teeth from shifting back toward their previous positions. The orthodontist also provides instructions for retainer use and post-braces care.
TREATMENT TIME, AGE & COST
The duration, number of orthodontic visits, and cost of braces vary depending on the complexity of the alignment, treatment type, and individual needs.
12–24 Months
Braces treatment typically takes around 12–24 months, depending on the complexity of the tooth and jaw alignment.
10–20 Visits
Patients generally require around 10–20 appointments throughout treatment, with adjustment visits usually scheduled every 4–6 weeks.
₹ 25,000 – 1,50,000
The cost of braces depends on the type of braces, treatment complexity, treatment duration, and individual orthodontic requirements. An exact estimate can be provided after an orthodontic consultation.
Children around 9–14 years may benefit from orthodontic evaluation while the jaws are still developing, but teens and adults can also achieve successful results with appropriate treatment planning.
Summary: Your Long-Term Smile Care Plan
| Action Item | Frequency/Duration |
|---|---|
| Wear retainer | As advised (initially full-time, then nightly) |
| Brush & floss | Daily |
| Avoid hard/sticky foods | For 2–4 weeks after removal |
| Orthodontic follow-ups | Every 6 months or as advised |
| Dental cleaning/checkups | Every 6 months |
| Whitening (optional) | After teeth have stabilized (2–3 months) |
Post-Braces Care Instructions
1. Wear Your Retainer as Advised
After the removal of the braces, a custom-made retainer is placed by the orthodontist to prevent the movement of the teeth back to their original position.
• The retainer (removable or fixed) must be worn full-time for the first few months, or as instructed.
• After the initial phase is over, one can wear the retainer only at night, or as prescribed.
• One should clean their retainer with soft brush and lukewarm water and should store them in a case
Types of Retainers:
• Removable Retainers (like Hawley or Clear Plastic)
• Fixed Retainers (bonded to the back of the teeth)
2. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
Even after braces are removed, one should maintain good oral hygiene to protect the straightened teeth.
Oral Hygiene Tips include: Brushing teeth twice daily, floss daily to remove the plaque deposits, use mouthwash as recommended by the dentist and a regular 6-month follow up with the dentist twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
3. Monitor for Shifting or Discomfort
Its normal to experience slight pressure after retainer placement but one should schedule a follow-up appointment with an orthodontist if one experiences abnormal tooth movement even after retainer placement, soreness in teeth or jaw or if the retainer does not fit properly.
4. Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods Initially for the first weeks
One must avoid hard and sticky foods like nuts, candy or popcorn, gum, caramel or toffee for the first few weeks after braces removal. After the braces are removed, the gums and teeth are still adjusting hence one must switch to soft food diet and eat slowly to prevent undue pressure on the teeth and maintain the achieved results.
5. Whitening Treatments (If Desired)
If, after the removal of braces, the patient notices slight discoloration or uneven shade on the surface of the teeth, then the patient can opt for professional teeth whitening.
6. Check for Gum Health
After the removal of the braces, the patient might experience slight sensitivity/swelling in the gums. The orthodontist might recommend gentle gum massages, saltwater rinses, and special dental tools to keep the gums healthy.
7. Regular Orthodontic Checkups
One should schedule regular appointments with their orthodontist even after treatment completion. These check-ups help the orthodontist to make small adjustments to prevent long-term problems.
Appointments may include:
• Retainer checks
• Bite analysis
• Tooth alignment review
Book your appointment today and experience the best teeth cleaning in Bangalore for a healthier, more confident smile!
FAQs – Orthodontic Braces in India
Mild discomfort is common in the first few days after placement or adjustment. It usually subsides quickly.
Yes, many adults choose braces to improve their smile and bite. Age is not a barrier.
Sticky candies, chewing gum, hard nuts, and popcorn should be avoided to prevent damage.
Yes, retainers are essential to maintain your new teeth position.
Some changes are noticeable within a few months. Final results depend on the individual case and treatment consistency.
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