Teeth that are crowded, crooked or spaced unevenly can be harder to clean and may affect how your bite works as well as how your smile looks. Orthodontic treatment gradually moves teeth into better positions, using braces or clear aligners.
What is orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment applies gentle, controlled pressure to move teeth over time. Braces are fixed to the teeth and adjusted at regular visits. Clear aligners are a series of removable, transparent trays that are changed in stages. Which option is appropriate depends on your teeth, your bite and your preferences, and your dentist will talk you through the choices.
Who may benefit?
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbite, underbite, crossbite or other bite concerns
- Teeth that are difficult to keep clean because of their position
- Teenagers and adults, provided the gums and teeth are healthy enough for treatment
What to expect
- Consultation and records. Your teeth and bite are examined and records such as photographs, X-rays and impressions or scans may be taken.
- Treatment plan. The options, an estimated treatment time and what is involved are explained.
- Fitting. Braces are fitted, or your first set of aligners is provided.
- Regular reviews. Braces are adjusted at scheduled visits. Aligner wearers change trays as directed and are reviewed to check progress.
- Retention. After the teeth are in position, retainers are used to help keep them there.
Aftercare and daily care
Cleaning carefully around braces matters, because food and plaque collect easily. Avoid very hard or sticky foods while wearing braces. Aligners need to be worn for the number of hours your dentist recommends and removed for eating and cleaning. Wearing your retainers as advised after treatment is important for keeping the result.
Good to know
Treatment time varies widely from person to person. Some tooth movements are better suited to braces than to aligners. It is normal to feel some tightness or soreness after fitting or adjustments. Treatment works best when you follow instructions and attend your appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on how much movement is needed, the type of appliance, and how closely instructions are followed. Your dentist can give an estimated timeframe for your case after an examination.
Both can move teeth effectively. The better option depends on your teeth, your bite, your lifestyle and how reliably you can wear aligners. Your dentist will explain which are suitable for you.
You may feel pressure or soreness for a few days after braces are fitted, adjusted or when you start a new aligner. This is normal and usually manageable with simple measures your dentist will advise on.
Yes. Orthodontic treatment is not only for children and teenagers. Adults can be treated as long as their teeth and gums are healthy.
Yes. Teeth have a natural tendency to drift back. Wearing retainers as advised helps keep them in their new positions.
This page is general educational information and is not a substitute for a personal dental examination. Suitability, timelines and outcomes vary from person to person and are confirmed at your consultation with Dr. Shivani Gupta, BDS.