Orthodontics — straight teeth for health and confidence

There is no age limit for orthodontic treatment. Adult orthodontics is increasingly common and can achieve excellent results at any age with proper diagnosis.

Ceramic braces are tooth-colored and much less visible than metal braces. Lingual braces are placed on the inner surfaces and invisible from the outside. Clear aligners are nearly invisible and removable.

Treatment duration varies with the degree of misalignment, typically ranging from 18 months to 3 years. Clear aligner cases for mild to moderate crowding may be completed in a shorter timeframe.

Some adjustment is needed initially — mild discomfort after wire changes and dietary modifications for fixed braces. Clear aligners can be removed for eating and brushing, minimizing lifestyle impact.

Some soreness is expected after each wire change or when new aligners are inserted, typically lasting 2–4 days. Over-the-counter pain relief is usually sufficient.

Retainers should generally be worn full-time for the first 6–12 months, then at night indefinitely to maintain results. Teeth can relapse without adequate retention.

Many bite discrepancies can be corrected with orthodontics alone. Severe skeletal discrepancies may require combined orthodontic and surgical treatment — this is assessed through comprehensive diagnosis.

In many cases, orthodontic treatment can be performed around existing restorations. The attending orthodontist will evaluate the situation and modify the treatment plan accordingly.