Orthodontics - Teeth Care Multispeciality Dental Clinic

28/10/202622/10/2026byankurOrthodontics

How Long Do Braces Take? Real Timelines and What Slows Them Down

“Doctor, how many months?” It is usually the first question after someone decides to get braces, and the most honest answer is a range, not a number. Still, a range based on real data is far more useful than a vague “it depends”.

So how long do braces take? Research on fixed braces puts the average at a little under two years. How long do braces take to straighten teeth in your own case? Your braces duration can be shorter or longer, and a surprising amount of that difference is in your hands. This guide explains the average, what makes treatment run long, why “6 month braces” promises need a closer look, and how to stay on schedule.

How Long Do Braces Take on Average?

The best single number comes from a 2016 systematic review in the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics by Tsichlaki and colleagues. It pooled 22 studies with 1,089 patients treated with fixed braces and found an average treatment time of 19.9 months, with an average of about 18 visits.

Two things to keep in mind about that number. First, all the studies were done in university or hospital settings. Second, it is an average, so many patients finish sooner and others take longer. Our own orthodontic treatment page gives a typical range of 12 to 24 months, depending on severity, age and the appliance used.

Case type	What the time usually depends on
Mild crowding or spacing	Often towards the shorter end of the range
Moderate crowding, rotated teeth	Close to the average
Bite correction (overbite, crossbite)	Often longer, the jaws need to be coordinated
Cases needing tooth extraction	Usually longer, the spaces must be closed

What Happens Month by Month

Knowing the stages also answers part of the question of how long do braces take, because each stage has its own pace.

Braces do not move all your teeth at once in a straight line. Most treatments pass through a few broad stages, and knowing them makes the long middle stretch less frustrating.

Stage 1

Levelling and aligning

Light, flexible wires start untwisting rotated teeth and lining them up. This is when visible changes come fastest, and when the first week of soreness happens. Our guide on whether braces hurt covers that week.

Stage 2

Closing spaces and correcting the bite

Stiffer wires, and often rubber bands between the jaws, close gaps and bring the upper and lower teeth into the right relationship. This is usually the longest stage, and the one where patients feel nothing is happening.

Stage 3

Finishing and detailing

Small adjustments fine-tune each tooth’s position. Then the braces come off and the retainer phase starts.

The retainer phase is not counted in braces duration, but it is part of the deal. Our guide to retainers after orthodontic treatment explains why it matters.

What Makes Braces Take Longer?

If you are asking how long do braces take in your own case, the factors below matter most.

A prospective study of 134 patients, published in The Angle Orthodontist in 2021, tracked which factors were linked to longer treatment. Five stood out:

Tooth extraction. Patients who needed extractions averaged 28.75 months, compared with 23.92 months for those who did not.
Not wearing rubber bands as told. Each recorded instance of poor elastic wear was linked to longer treatment.
Missed appointments. Each missed visit was linked to a longer total time.
Poor oral hygiene. Problems with cleaning were also linked to longer treatment.
How severe the problem was at the start. More complex bites took longer.

Three of those five are habits, not biology. That is the encouraging part.

In that study, age and sex were not significant factors, which is good news for adults. Read our guide on adult orthodontic treatment in Kolkata if that is your situation.

Does the Type of Braces Change How Long Braces Take?

Less than most people expect. In the same 134-patient study, bracket type (self-ligating or conventional) was not a significant factor in treatment time. A separate UK randomised trial found 25.12 months for self-ligating brackets and 25.80 months for conventional ones, a difference the authors judged clinically insignificant. Our article on self-ligating braces goes through that evidence.

The choice between metal, ceramic braces, lingual braces and clear aligners is mainly about appearance, comfort and lifestyle. With aligners, though, the time depends heavily on wearing the trays for the hours your orthodontist asks.

What About 6 Month Braces?

You have probably seen offers for “6 month braces” or braces on the front teeth only. These are usually short-term cosmetic treatments that straighten the visible front teeth and do not aim to correct the whole bite.

A 2020 article in Dental Update describes short-term orthodontics as cosmetically motivated, limited treatment, and notes that the six-month claim is a marketing point. In 2015, the UK dental defence organisation MDDUS reported complaints and refund requests from patients whose short-term treatment did not turn out as expected. It advised dentists to explain the limits in writing and to offer conventional orthodontics, which it said usually takes about 18 months to two years, as an alternative.

Before you choose a short treatment: ask what will and will not be corrected, whether your bite will change, and what happens if the front teeth move back. A good orthodontist will answer all three plainly.

Our main clinic site has a broader guide to getting braces in Kolkata if you are still comparing options.

5 Habits That Keep You on Schedule

How long do braces take is partly up to you. These five habits help keep treatment on track.

Do not miss adjustment visits

Book the next appointment before you leave the clinic. If you must reschedule, do it within the same week.

Wear rubber bands exactly as told

Elastics only work when they are in. Keep a spare pack in your bag.

Keep your teeth and gums clean

Brush around every bracket and clean between teeth daily. Our main clinic site has practical braces care tips.

Protect your brackets

Avoid hard and sticky foods. A loose bracket stops working on that tooth until it is fixed.

Ask for your progress at each visit

Knowing which stage you are in keeps you motivated through the slow middle months.

References

Tsichlaki A, Chin SY, Pandis N, Fleming PS. How long does treatment with fixed orthodontic appliances last? A systematic review. Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop, 2016.
Factors influencing treatment efficiency: a prospective cohort study. The Angle Orthodontist, 2021.
Ismail H-A, Misra S. Short-Term Orthodontics: Reasons for Treatment and their Associated Risks. Dental Update, 2020.
MDDUS. Manage expectations with orthodontic treatment, 2015.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do braces take on average?

A 2016 systematic review of 22 studies found an average of 19.9 months with fixed braces. At Teeth Care, most treatments fall between 12 and 24 months depending on the case.

How much time do braces take to straighten teeth?

Visible straightening often starts in the first few months, during the alignment stage. Completing the full treatment, including bite correction and finishing, usually takes much longer than that first visible change.

Why are my braces taking longer than expected?

Common reasons include tooth extractions, missed appointments, not wearing rubber bands as instructed, poor oral hygiene and a more complex bite at the start. Ask your orthodontist which stage you are in.

Can braces really work in 6 months?

Short-term treatments usually straighten only the front teeth and do not aim to correct the full bite. For many people, a complete correction takes much longer. Ask exactly what will be corrected before you decide.

Do self-ligating braces finish faster?

Clinical studies have not found a meaningful difference. One UK trial found 25.12 months with self-ligating and 25.80 months with conventional brackets.

Do I need a retainer after braces come off?

Yes. Teeth tend to drift back without one. Your orthodontist will explain how long to wear it and which type suits you.

Want to Know Your Own Timeline?

Book an orthodontic consultation at any Teeth Care branch in Kolkata. After examining your teeth, we will give you an estimated treatment time for your case.

Book an Appointment Call +91 98315 26251

Available at our Chinar Park, New Town, Ballygunge, Dunlop and Charnock branches. This article is for general information and does not replace a clinical examination.

27/10/202622/10/2026byankurOrthodontics

Palatal Expander: Why Your Child Might Need One

A parent sits in the orthodontist’s chair beside their nine-year-old and hears a phrase they have never heard before: “palatal expander”. Then comes the part that sounds alarming. A small screw in the roof of the child’s mouth, a key, and a parent turning it at home.

It sounds stranger than it is. A palatal expander is one of the most common appliances in children’s orthodontics, and it works with the way a child’s jaw is still growing. This guide explains what a palatal expander does, why the right age matters, what the weeks of treatment look like, and what options exist for teenagers and adults.

What this guide covers

What a palatal expander is
Why children need one
Why age matters
How treatment works, step by step
The gap between the front teeth
Eating, cleaning and comfort
Palatal expander for adults

What Is a Palatal Expander?

A palatal expander is a custom-made appliance fixed to the upper back teeth. It has two halves joined by a small screw that sits under the roof of the mouth. Each time the screw is turned with a tiny key, the two halves move apart very slightly and press outward on the upper jaw.

The upper jaw is actually made of two halves joined down the middle by a seam called the midpalatal suture. In children, that seam has not fully fused. Steady pressure from the expander gently opens it, and new bone fills the space over the following months. The result is a wider upper jaw, not just tilted teeth. Because the turning happens over a few weeks rather than months, this approach is often called a rapid palatal expander or rapid maxillary expansion.

Why Would a Child Need a Palatal Expander?

The orthodontist usually recommends a palatal expander for one of two reasons:

Crossbite. When the upper jaw is too narrow, some upper back teeth bite inside the lower teeth instead of outside them. Our main clinic site explains this and other bite problems in its guide to overbite, underbite and crossbite.
Not enough space. A narrow upper arch can leave too little room for the permanent teeth that are still coming in.

An expander may be the only treatment a child needs, or it may be the first step before braces later. That decision usually comes out of an early check-up. Our guide on early orthodontic evaluation for children explains when that first visit should happen.

Why Age Matters for a Palatal Expander

Timing is the reason orthodontists talk about expanders in childhood. A review in the International Journal of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry notes that after puberty the two halves of the suture interlock more and more tightly, which makes separating them difficult.

Colgate’s guide on palate expanders makes the same point in plain words: expanders work best in children and preteens, whose palate bones have not fully fused. That is why an orthodontist may suggest one at eight or ten years old even if the child’s teeth do not look very crooked yet. Waiting can make the same correction harder.

How Palatal Expander Treatment Works, Step by Step

Step 1

Records and fitting

The orthodontist takes impressions or scans, and the expander is made to fit your child’s teeth. At the fitting visit it is cemented to the upper back teeth.

Step 2

Turning the key at home

A parent turns the screw with a small key, usually once or twice a day, exactly as the orthodontist directs. The pediatric dentistry review describes a common protocol of a quarter turn twice a day. Follow your own orthodontist’s schedule, not a general one.

Step 3

Active expansion, usually a few weeks

The same review gives an active phase of about two to three weeks. The orthodontist checks progress at regular visits and tells you when to stop turning.

Step 4

Holding phase, several months

The expander stays in place after the turning stops so new bone can fill the widened area. The review mentions about three months, and Colgate cites three to nine months depending on the case.

Do not change the turning schedule yourself. Skipping turns or adding extra ones can affect the result. If you miss a turn or are unsure, call the clinic.

The Gap Between the Front Teeth

Most parents panic about this part, so it is worth knowing in advance. As the upper jaw widens, a gap often opens between the two upper front teeth. Colgate describes this gap as normal and a sign that the expander is working.

The pediatric dentistry review notes that this gap is expected to close on its own during the holding phase, and braces can close any remaining space later. It is temporary.

Eating, Cleaning and Comfort

What is normal

Pressure in the teeth, or below the eyes and at the bridge of the nose, after turning
Talking and eating feeling awkward for the first days
A slight lisp or extra saliva at the start
A gap opening between the front teeth

Foods to avoid

Nuts, chikki and hard sweets
Sticky toffee and chewing gum
Ice cubes
Chewing pencils or other objects

Food tends to collect around the expander, so brushing after meals matters. Colgate recommends brushing at least three times a day and using a water syringe to flush out food stuck under the appliance.

For pressure after turning, ask the orthodontist before giving any pain reliever, and which one suits your child’s age.

Palatal Expander for Adults and Older Teens

Because the suture tightens after puberty, a standard palatal expander does not work the same way in adults. Newer techniques can help in some cases. One is miniscrew-assisted rapid palatal expansion, often shortened to MARPE, where small screws anchored in the palate help push the halves apart.

A 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis in BMC Oral Health looked at MARPE in patients over 13.5 years old and reported a mean success rate of about 94%. The authors also noted some relapse over time, possible side effects, and very low overall quality of evidence. In other adult cases, expansion needs a surgical approach.

So if you are an adult with a narrow upper jaw, the answer depends on your own scans and bite. Our orthodontic team can assess what is realistic, and our guide on adult orthodontic treatment in Kolkata covers other options.

References

Agarwal A, Mathur R. Maxillary Expansion. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent, 2010.
Long-term efficacy and stability of miniscrew-assisted rapid palatal expansion in mid to late adolescents and adults. BMC Oral Health, 2023.
Colgate India. What Is an Expander?

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a palatal expander do?

It widens the upper jaw by gently separating the two halves of the palate along the midline seam, which is still open in children. New bone then fills the space, leaving a wider upper arch.

What is the best age for a palatal expander?

Expanders work best in children and preteens, before the palate seam fuses. After puberty the seam interlocks more tightly and becomes harder to separate, so your orthodontist may suggest one before braces.

How long does a child wear a palatal expander?

Active turning usually lasts a few weeks, often about two to three. The expander then stays in for several months, commonly around three and up to nine, so the new bone can settle.

Is a palatal expander painful?

Most children feel pressure rather than pain, often in the teeth, under the eyes or at the bridge of the nose, especially after a turn. Ask your orthodontist before giving any pain reliever.

Why is there a gap between my child's front teeth?

The gap is a normal sign that the upper jaw is widening. It usually closes during the holding phase, and braces can close any space that remains.

Can adults get a palatal expander?

A standard expander works less well in adults because the palate seam has fused. Techniques such as miniscrew-assisted expansion or a surgical approach may be options, depending on your scans and bite.

Has Your Child Been Advised an Expander?

Book an orthodontic consultation at any Teeth Care branch in Kolkata. We will check your child’s bite and explain whether an expander is needed and when.

Book an Appointment Call +91 98315 26251

Available at our Chinar Park, New Town, Ballygunge, Dunlop and Charnock branches. This article is for general information and does not replace a clinical examination.

26/10/202622/10/2026byankurOrthodontics

Lingual Braces: The Braces Nobody Sees, Explained

A lawyer who argues in court every week. A news anchor. A bride with a wedding fourteen months away. All three want straighter teeth, and none of them wants anyone to notice the treatment. Clear aligners are one answer. Lingual braces are the other one, and far fewer people know they exist.

Lingual braces are fixed braces glued to the back of your teeth, on the side that faces your tongue. From the front, nobody can see them. This guide explains how they work, what research says about speech and comfort, who they suit, and what affects the cost of lingual braces in India.

What this guide covers

What lingual braces are
Where lingual braces came from
Speech, tongue comfort and cleaning
Lingual braces vs other options
Who lingual braces suit
Lingual braces cost in India
The first few weeks

What Are Lingual Braces?

Regular braces have brackets on the front surface of each tooth. Lingual braces flip that around. The brackets are bonded to the inner surface, and the wire runs along the inside of the arch. They still work with brackets and a wire that apply steady pressure, so the way they move teeth is the same idea as any fixed brace.

The big difference is visibility. Because everything sits behind the teeth, they are close to invisible when you talk or smile. Many modern lingual systems are designed on a computer and custom-made for each patient’s tooth shape.

Teeth Care offers this option alongside metal, ceramic, self-ligating braces and clear aligners. You can see the full list on our orthodontic treatment page.

Where Lingual Braces Came From

The idea is older than most people expect. In 1976, an American orthodontist named Craven Kurz started working on braces that would hide behind the teeth after a patient asked for treatment that did not show metal. The first lingual brackets were manufactured in 1979.

Early versions irritated the tongue and broke often, and interest dropped by the end of the 1980s. They came back from around 2008, when digital design and better lab techniques made custom-fitted brackets possible. One well-known custom system, Incognito, uses computer-aided design to shape brackets and wires to each patient.

Speech, Tongue Comfort and Cleaning With Lingual Braces

Here is the honest trade-off. What you gain in looks, you pay for in the first few weeks of getting used to them.

A 2016 systematic review and meta-analysis in the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics compared lingual and conventional front-mounted braces. It pooled six studies with 131 patients in each group and found that lingual braces were linked to:

More tongue soreness. The tongue touches the brackets constantly in the first weeks.
More speech difficulty. Some sounds can feel and sound different at first.
More trouble keeping teeth clean. Brushing behind the teeth takes practice.

The authors said the evidence is limited and called for more high-quality trials, so these numbers should be read with care. The practical point is consistent across sources: the irritation and speech changes usually settle within two to three weeks as the tongue adapts.

If you speak for a living: plan your start date so the first two or three weeks do not clash with an important presentation, hearing or event.

Lingual Braces vs Other Options

Factor	Lingual Braces	Ceramic Braces	Clear Aligners
Visible from the front?	No	Slightly, tooth-coloured	Barely, clear trays
Fixed or removable	Fixed	Fixed	Removable
Depends on you wearing it?	No, always working	No, always working	Yes, needs most of the day
Early side effects	Tongue soreness, speech change	Cheek and lip rubbing	Pressure with each new tray
Cleaning	Harder, behind the teeth	Moderate	Easy, trays come out

If appearance matters but you are fine with tooth-coloured brackets on the front, compare ceramic braces. If you would rather have something removable, look at clear aligners or Invisalign in Kolkata. Our main clinic site also has a detailed page on invisible dental braces.

One small plus: because nothing is bonded to the front surface, any white marks that can form around brackets during treatment would not be on the side people see.

Who Lingual Braces Suit

Often a good fit

Adults in client-facing or on-camera jobs
People who want fixed braces they cannot forget to wear
Patients who tried aligners and struggled to wear them enough
Anyone who can spend a few extra minutes cleaning each day

Discuss carefully first

Bites your orthodontist finds better suited to another system
People who want the simplest possible cleaning routine
People with a big speaking event in the next few weeks
Anyone who finds brushing behind the teeth hard to keep up

Only an orthodontist can say whether this option suits your bite, after looking at your teeth, X-rays and records. Our orthodontic team will tell you plainly if another option would work better. If you are an adult, our guide on adult orthodontic treatment in Kolkata is a useful companion read.

Lingual Braces Cost in India

The price depends on a few things that vary a lot between patients:

Custom manufacturing. Custom lingual brackets and wires are designed and made for your teeth, which adds lab cost.
One arch or both. Some patients need them only on the upper teeth, which are the most visible, and a different option below.
Case complexity. More movement means longer treatment and more visits.

For reference, other options at Teeth Care are indicatively priced at INR 60,000 to 70,000 for metal braces, INR 65,000 to 85,000 for ceramic and INR 75,000 to 5,00,000 for aligners. Lingual braces are quoted individually after your examination, because the custom set-up depends on your case.

Getting an accurate quote: book a consultation. The orthodontist will check if this option suits your bite and give you a written cost before anything is made.

The First Few Weeks With Lingual Braces

Week 1

Tongue and speech adjust

Expect the tongue to feel the brackets constantly and some words to sound slightly different. Orthodontic wax can cover a bracket that rubs.

Week 1 to 2

Teeth feel sore, then settle

Like any fixed braces, teeth feel tender for a few days after the wire goes in. Our guide on whether braces hurt covers that first week day by day.

Week 2 to 3

Most people feel normal again

For most patients, tongue irritation and speech changes fade within two to three weeks. If they do not, tell your orthodontist.

Every day

Clean behind the teeth

Use a small-headed or interdental brush angled behind the teeth. Keeping this area clean is the habit that matters most.

When treatment ends, you will need a retainer, just as with any other braces. Read our guide to retainers after orthodontic treatment to plan ahead.

References

Ata-Ali F, et al. Adverse effects of lingual and buccal orthodontic techniques: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop, 2016.
Lingual braces: history and development. Wikipedia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can people see lingual braces?

Not from the front. The brackets and wire sit on the inner surface of the teeth. Someone might notice them only if they look inside your mouth from very close.

Do lingual braces affect speech?

Usually yes, for a short time. A 2016 meta-analysis found speech difficulties were more likely with behind-the-teeth braces than with front-mounted ones. For most people, speech returns to normal within two to three weeks.

Are lingual braces more painful than normal braces?

Teeth feel the same kind of soreness with both. The difference is that brackets behind the teeth tend to irritate the tongue, while front braces tend to rub the cheeks and lips. Both settle as you adapt.

How much do lingual braces cost in India?

The cost depends on whether brackets are custom-made, whether one or both arches are treated, and how complex your case is. At Teeth Care, they are quoted individually after your examination.

Do lingual braces take longer than regular braces?

Treatment time depends mainly on how much your teeth need to move. Your orthodontist will give you an estimated timeline for your case at the consultation.

Can I get lingual braces on only the upper teeth?

Some patients do. The upper teeth are the most visible, so a combination of behind-the-teeth braces on top and another option below can be considered. Your orthodontist will advise based on your bite.

Want Braces Nobody Can See?

Book an orthodontic consultation at any Teeth Care branch in Kolkata to find out if this option suits your bite.

Book an Appointment Call +91 98315 26251

Available at our Chinar Park, New Town, Ballygunge, Dunlop and Charnock branches. This article is for general information and does not replace a clinical examination.

25/10/202622/10/2026byankurOrthodontics

Do Braces Hurt? A Day-by-Day Guide to the First Week

The night before getting braces, most people do the same thing. They search “do braces hurt” and end up reading forum posts that range from “felt nothing” to “worst week of my life”. Neither helps much.

Here is the version based on research and on what orthodontists see every week. Getting braces put on does not hurt. The soreness comes a few hours later, peaks around the next day, and fades over about a week. This guide walks through that week day by day, explains why it happens, and lists what actually helps.

What this guide covers

Do braces hurt when they are put on?
Why teeth feel sore
The first week, day by day
How to relieve braces pain
What to eat in the first week
Pain after adjustments
When to call your orthodontist

Do Braces Hurt When They Are Put On?

No. The brackets are glued to the surface of the teeth, so there is no injection and no drilling. The appointment usually takes one to two hours. The most uncomfortable part for most people is keeping the mouth open for that long.

If your treatment uses metal bands around the back teeth, fitting them can feel like firm pressure or a pinch for a moment. Some patients also get small rubber separators between the back teeth a few days earlier to make room for the bands. Separators often cause their own short spell of soreness.

Why Teeth Feel Sore

Once the wire is tied in, it starts pressing on the teeth. Teeth sit in bone, held by a thin ligament. When that ligament is squeezed on one side, the body sets off a mild inflammatory response that remodels the bone so the tooth can move. That same inflammation is what you feel as a dull ache and tenderness when biting.

So the soreness is not a sign that something is wrong. It is a sign that the braces have started working.

It is also very common. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 16 randomised trials on orthodontic pain cites research in which 91% of patients with fixed braces reported pain at some stage of treatment.

The First Week, Day by Day

Studies on orthodontic pain show that it peaks about one day after the wire is placed and then eases gradually over the following seven days. Here is how that usually feels in practice:

When	What most people feel
Day 0 (fitting day)	Little or no pain at the clinic. A pressure feeling starts within a few hours. Cheeks and lips feel the brackets for the first time.
Day 1 to 2	The peak. Teeth feel tender, biting is uncomfortable and chewing feels like hard work.
Day 3 to 4	Soreness starts easing. Small sore spots on the inside of the cheeks may show up where brackets rub.
Day 5 to 7	For most people the ache has faded a lot. Soft foods are easy again and you start getting used to the braces.

Everyone is different: some studies found that close to half of patients still had some pain one week after the wire was placed. If you are still sore after a week, that is not unusual, but mention it at your next visit.

Most people adjust to the feel of braces within about a month.

How to Relieve Braces Pain

Step 1

Use orthodontic wax on rubbing brackets

Roll a small piece of wax and press it over the bracket that is rubbing your cheek. It gives the sore spot a few days to heal.

Step 2

Try something cold

Cold water or a cold drink can soothe tender gums. Avoid ice cubes, which can break brackets.

Step 3

Rinse with warm salt water

A gentle rinse helps keep small cheek sores clean while they heal.

Step 4

Ask before taking painkillers

Over-the-counter painkillers are commonly used for the first day or two. That review notes that ibuprofen, aspirin and paracetamol may interfere with the inflammation that moves teeth, so ask your orthodontist which medicine and dose suit you instead of choosing on your own.

You may also read that chewing gum helps. The same review pooled trials and found chewing gum reduced pain 24 hours after the wire was placed, though the authors rated the certainty of that evidence as very low. Many orthodontists still tell patients to avoid gum because it can stick to brackets, so check with yours first.

What to Eat in the First Week

For the first few days, pick foods you can eat without much chewing. A Bengali kitchen makes this easy.

Easy on sore teeth

Khichuri, dal and soft rice
Curd, mishti doi and smoothies
Idli, upma and soft rotis torn small
Boiled eggs, soft fish without bones
Mashed potato, soups and stews

Avoid for now (and mostly always)

Hard sweets, chikki and nuts
Chips, papad and hard toast
Sticky toffee and chewing gum
Corn on the cob and whole apples
Ice cubes and chewing on pens

Once the soreness settles, you can go back to most normal meals. Cut hard fruits and rotis into small pieces and chew with your back teeth.

Pain After Adjustments

Every few weeks your orthodontist changes or tightens the wire. That restarts the same process on a smaller scale. Most patients find adjustment soreness lasts a few days and feels milder than the first week. The review cited above notes that more than 30% of patients report some pain at each stage, so plan a soft dinner on adjustment day.

Your bracket choice does not change this much. Our guide on self-ligating braces explains why trials found no clinically meaningful pain difference between bracket types, and ceramic braces feel much the same as metal.

If you would rather avoid brackets altogether, removable clear aligners also cause pressure when you switch to a new tray, but they have no wires or brackets to rub your cheeks.

When to Call Your Orthodontist

Normal soreness gets better day by day. Call the clinic instead of waiting for your next appointment if:

A wire end is poking into your cheek and wax does not help
A bracket or band has come loose or out of place
Pain is getting worse after the first few days instead of better
One tooth is much more painful than the rest
A mouth sore is getting bigger or is not healing

Our orthodontic team can usually fix a poking wire or loose bracket in a short visit. You can see all our brace and aligner options on the orthodontic treatment page, and our main clinic site has more daily braces care tips.

References

Effect of chewing gum on orthodontic pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (PROSPERO CRD42019141501). PubMed Central.
Healthline. Do Braces Hurt? Medically reviewed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do braces hurt after they are put on?

For most people, soreness starts within a few hours, peaks around the first day and fades over about a week. Some people still feel mild discomfort after a week, which is not unusual.

Does getting braces put on hurt?

No. The brackets are glued to the teeth without injections or drilling. You may feel pressure if metal bands are fitted around the back teeth.

Which day of braces pain is the worst?

Research shows pain usually peaks around one day after the wire is placed. Many patients describe days one and two as the hardest, with steady improvement after that.

Can I take a painkiller for braces pain?

Painkillers are commonly used for a day or two, but ask your orthodontist which one and how much. Some research suggests common painkillers may interfere with the process that moves teeth.

Do braces hurt every time they are tightened?

Usually there is some soreness for a few days after an adjustment, but most people find it milder than the first week.

What can I eat on the first day of braces?

Choose soft foods such as khichuri, dal and rice, curd, mishti doi, soup, mashed potato and soft fish. Avoid hard, crunchy and sticky foods.

Planning to Start Braces?

Book an orthodontic consultation at any Teeth Care branch in Kolkata. We will explain your treatment, what the first week feels like and how to make it easier.

Book an Appointment Call +91 98315 26251

Available at our Chinar Park, New Town, Ballygunge, Dunlop and Charnock branches. This article is for general information and does not replace a clinical examination.

24/10/202622/10/2026byankurOrthodontics

Self-Ligating Braces: Do They Really Work Faster?

If you have searched for braces online in the last few months, you have probably seen the pitch: “faster treatment, less pain, fewer visits”. It usually comes attached to self-ligating braces, sometimes under a brand name like Damon. The pitch is persuasive, and the braces are also a bit more expensive, so it is worth asking a plain question before you pay the difference: what does the research actually show?

This guide explains how self-ligating braces work, the two main types, what clinical trials found about speed and pain, the real advantages, and what they cost in Kolkata.

What this guide covers

What self-ligating braces are
Active vs passive types
Are they faster or less painful?
Real advantages and limits
Self-ligating braces cost in Kolkata
How to decide

What Are Self-Ligating Braces?

In regular braces, the wire sits in a slot on each bracket and is held there by a tiny elastic ring or a thin steel tie. That holding step is called ligation.

Self-ligating brackets skip the elastic ring. Each bracket has a small built-in clip or sliding door that closes over the wire and holds it in place. The idea is not new. The first self-ligating bracket patent goes back to 1933, and the Damon bracket, the name most patients in India recognise, was introduced in 1996.

From the outside they look much like normal braces. They come in metal and in clear or tooth-coloured versions.

Active vs Passive Self-Ligating Braces

Type 1

Passive self-ligating

The door closes over the slot but does not press on the wire. The wire can slide with less friction. Damon brackets are the best-known passive design.

Type 2

Active self-ligating

A spring clip presses against the wire, giving the orthodontist more direct control, especially in later stages. Examples include In-Ovation and SPEED brackets.

Which type is better depends on the movement your teeth need. Your orthodontist chooses based on your bite, not on the brand.

Are Self-Ligating Braces Faster or Less Painful?

This is where the marketing and the research part ways.

A multicentre randomised controlled trial in the UK compared a self-ligating bracket with a conventional bracket. Of 138 patients recruited, 135 completed treatment. Results published in The Angle Orthodontist showed:

Outcome	Self-ligating	Conventional
Average treatment time	25.12 months	25.80 months
Average number of visits	19.97	20.37
Clinically meaningful difference?	No, for both measures

The second part of the same trial looked at pain. Patients’ reported pain showed no clinically significant difference between the two systems.

A literature review published in February 2026 in the Archive of Orofacial Data Science went through 36 studies from 2003 to 2023. It found no statistically significant difference between self-ligating and conventional brackets for treatment time, pain, root resorption or gum health. Some studies leaned slightly towards self-ligating, but the author concluded that the evidence is not enough to say either system is more efficient.

Bottom line: on current evidence, you should not choose self-ligating braces expecting to finish months earlier or to feel noticeably less sore. Treatment time depends mainly on your case and on how consistently you attend appointments.

Real Advantages and Limits

That does not make self-ligating braces pointless. They have practical benefits that have nothing to do with speed:

No elastic rings to stain. Regular braces use elastic ties that can pick up colour from tea and coffee. Self-ligating brackets do not need them, which is useful with clear brackets.
Simpler wire changes. The orthodontist opens and closes the clip instead of replacing ties around every bracket.
A tidier look. With no coloured or grey ties, the clear versions look cleaner from up close.

The limits are worth knowing too:

Higher cost. At our clinic they cost noticeably more than conventional metal braces.
Clips can fail. A clip or door can occasionally open or break and needs a repair visit.
Elastics may still be needed. Many bite corrections still use rubber bands between the jaws, whatever the bracket type.

Self-Ligating Braces Cost in Kolkata

Indicative full-treatment costs at Teeth Care Multispeciality Dental Clinic:

Brace Type	Indicative Full Treatment Cost
Metal braces (conventional)	INR 60,000 to 70,000
Ceramic braces (conventional)	INR 65,000 to 75,000
Damon metal (self-ligating)	INR 80,000 to 1,00,000
Damon clear (self-ligating)	INR 95,000 to 1,30,000

Note: These are indicative ranges. The final cost depends on case complexity and treatment length, and is confirmed after your clinical examination.

Put simply, self-ligating metal costs roughly INR 20,000 to 30,000 more than conventional metal at our clinic. You are paying for convenience and appearance, not for a shorter treatment.

How to Decide

Self-ligating makes sense if

You want clear brackets without ties that discolour
The extra cost fits comfortably in your budget
Your orthodontist recommends it for your type of movement

Conventional is fine if

Your main goal is the result at a lower cost
You were told self-ligating will halve your treatment time
You do not mind changing ties at each visit

If someone promises you a much faster finish because of the bracket alone, ask them for the evidence. A specialist should be able to explain your plan in terms of your bite, not the bracket brand. Our article on orthodontist vs dentist explains why that training matters.

You can see every brace and aligner option we offer on our orthodontic treatment page, or compare with ceramic braces if appearance is your main concern. Our main clinic site also explains every option on its dental braces in Kolkata page.

References

A multicenter randomized controlled trial to compare a self-ligating bracket with a conventional bracket in a UK population. Part 1: Treatment efficiency. The Angle Orthodontist, 86(1).
Part 2: Pain perception. The Angle Orthodontist, 86(1).
Heng S. Self-Ligating Versus Conventional Orthodontic Brackets: A Review of Treatment Efficiency and Adverse Effects. Archive of Orofacial Data Science, 2026.
Self-ligating bracket. Wikipedia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Damon braces and self-ligating braces the same?

Damon is one brand of passive self-ligating bracket. All Damon braces are self-ligating, but not all self-ligating braces are Damon. Other systems use active clips.

Do self-ligating braces reduce treatment time?

Clinical trials have not shown a meaningful difference. A UK randomised trial found 25.12 months for self-ligating and 25.80 months for conventional brackets, which the authors judged clinically insignificant.

Are self-ligating braces less painful?

The same UK trial found no clinically significant difference in pain, and a 2026 review of 36 studies reached the same conclusion. Most people feel some soreness for a few days with any fixed braces.

How much do self-ligating braces cost in Kolkata?

At Teeth Care, indicative costs are INR 80,000 to 1,00,000 for Damon metal and INR 95,000 to 1,30,000 for Damon clear. Your exact figure is confirmed after examination.

Do I need fewer visits with self-ligating braces?

The UK trial recorded an average of 19.97 visits with self-ligating brackets and 20.37 with conventional ones, which is not a meaningful difference. Visit frequency depends on your treatment plan.

Can I get self-ligating braces as an adult?

Yes. Adults can have any type of fixed braces if their teeth and gums are healthy. Read our guide on adult orthodontic treatment in Kolkata for what to expect.

Not Sure Which Braces Suit You?

Book an orthodontic consultation at any Teeth Care branch in Kolkata. We will explain the options that fit your bite and your budget.

Book an Appointment Call +91 98315 26251

Available at our Chinar Park, New Town, Ballygunge, Dunlop and Charnock branches. This article is for general information and does not replace a clinical examination.

23/10/202622/10/2026byankurOrthodontics

Ceramic Braces: Cost in India, Staining and Who They Suit

Picture a 24-year-old who has just joined an office in Sector V. She has wanted straighter teeth since college, but every time she imagines a mouth full of shiny metal in client meetings, she puts it off for another year. Then someone mentions “tooth-coloured braces” and the idea suddenly feels possible.

That is usually how people find ceramic braces. They work the same way as regular braces, but the brackets blend in with the teeth. This guide explains what they are, what they cost in Kolkata, what research says about staining and breakage, and the cases where a good orthodontist will tell you to pick something else.

What this guide covers

What ceramic braces are
Ceramic vs metal braces
Ceramic braces cost in Kolkata
Do ceramic braces stain?
Breakage and enamel safety
Who should and should not choose them
Living with ceramic braces

What Are Ceramic Braces?

Ceramic braces are fixed braces with brackets made of an alumina-based ceramic instead of stainless steel. A wire runs through the brackets and slowly moves the teeth, exactly like metal braces. The difference is how they look from a normal talking distance.

There are two main types of ceramic bracket, according to a 2018 orthodontic review by Elekdag-Turk and Yilmaz:

Polycrystalline alumina. Made by moulding. Slightly opaque, tooth-coloured, and more resistant to cracks spreading. They create more friction against the wire.
Monocrystalline alumina (sapphire). Cut from a single crystal, so they look almost clear. They cost more to make and are a little more fragile.

The wire and the small elastic ties that hold it can also be white or clear, so the whole appliance stays low-key. Your orthodontic treatment plan decides which combination suits your bite.

Ceramic vs Metal Braces

Both types move teeth with the same mechanics. The trade-offs show up in looks, strength and price.

Factor	Metal Braces	Ceramic Braces
Appearance	Silver brackets, clearly visible	Tooth-coloured or clear, much less noticeable
Strength	Very strong, rarely break	Brittle, more prone to chipping or tie-wing fracture
Bracket size	Smaller	Usually slightly larger
Staining	Elastic ties can stain	Elastic ties stain easily; brackets much less
Removal at the end	Routine	Needs more care to protect enamel
Cost at Teeth Care	INR 60,000 to 70,000	INR 65,000 to 85,000

Treatment time is in a similar range for both. Healthline’s medically reviewed guide puts them at roughly 18 to 36 months, which matches the usual span for metal braces in comprehensive cases. Your own timeline depends far more on how much your teeth need to move than on the bracket material.

Ceramic Braces Cost in Kolkata

Here are the indicative full-treatment prices at Teeth Care Multispeciality Dental Clinic, so you can compare ceramic with the other options side by side. Ceramic braces cost in India varies a lot between cities and clinics, so a local, itemised quote matters more than a national average.

Brace Type	Indicative Full Treatment Cost
Metal braces	INR 60,000 to 70,000
Ceramic braces	INR 65,000 to 75,000
Ceramic clear braces	INR 75,000 to 85,000
Damon (self-ligating) clear	INR 95,000 to 1,30,000

Why the range? The final cost depends on how complex your case is and how long treatment runs. Your orthodontist confirms the exact figure after the clinical examination and records.

So the jump from metal to ceramic at our clinic is roughly INR 5,000 to 15,000, depending on the ceramic type. For many adults that difference is small compared with how much more comfortable they feel smiling at work for two years.

Do Ceramic Braces Stain?

This is the question almost every patient asks, and the answer is more specific than “yes” or “no”.

Lab tests show ceramic brackets can change colour a little too, but the small elastic ties around each bracket stain much more easily, as Healthline’s dentist-reviewed guide points out. A 2016 lab study in The Open Dentistry Journal soaked tooth-coloured elastic ties in coffee, black tea, red wine and cola for 72 hours. Coffee and black tea caused the most colour change, close to ten times the change seen in plain water. Cola stained the least of the four. The authors concluded that all shades of these ties can change colour.

For a Kolkata reader, that makes your daily cha the thing to watch, more than the occasional cold drink. The good news is that the ties are replaced at your regular adjustment visits, so any yellowing does not stay for the full treatment.

Simple habit that helps: rinse with water or brush soon after tea or coffee, and drink them in one sitting rather than sipping all afternoon.

Breakage and Enamel Safety

Ceramic is hard but brittle. It does not bend the way steel does, so a bracket can chip or crack if you bite something hard. Healthline cites a 2016 study that found ceramic brackets were more than twice as likely to break as metal ones, even during normal chewing.

The same hardness creates two other concerns that the 2018 orthodontic review points out:

Wear on opposite teeth. Ceramic is harder than enamel. If upper teeth bite down onto lower ceramic brackets, the enamel on the upper teeth can wear. Orthodontists manage this in deep bite cases by protecting the bite or choosing bracket positions carefully.
Removal needs care. At the end of treatment, ceramic brackets must be taken off with the right technique, or enamel can be damaged and bracket fragments can break. This is a job for an experienced orthodontist, not a rushed appointment.

None of this makes them unsafe. It means the clinic’s experience with them matters. Our orthodontic team plans bracket placement and removal around these known risks.

Who Should and Should Not Choose Ceramic Braces

Good fit

Teenagers whose adult teeth have fully come in, and adults
People who meet clients or face a camera often
Cases that need fixed braces but where aligners are not suitable
Patients who can avoid biting very hard foods

Think twice

Contact sports players, where a knock can fracture brackets
Patients planned for jaw surgery, as advised in the 2018 review
Severe deep bites, unless the orthodontist protects the opposing teeth
Anyone who chews ice, pens or nails out of habit

If you are an adult weighing your options, our guide on adult orthodontic treatment in Kolkata covers what changes after your twenties. If you want something removable, compare with clear aligners.

Living With Ceramic Braces

Tip 1

Cut hard food into small pieces

Bite apples, guava and corn off the cob after cutting them, not with your front teeth. Skip hard sweets and ice entirely.

Tip 2

Clean around every bracket

Ceramic brackets are a little bulkier, so food collects around them. Use an orthodontic brush and an interdental brush every night.

Tip 3

Report a chipped bracket early

A cracked bracket stops working properly and can have sharp edges. Call the clinic rather than waiting for your next visit.

Tip 4

Plan for the retainer

Straight teeth need a retainer afterwards. Read our guide to retainers after orthodontic treatment before you finish.

Still comparing? Our main clinic site has a side-by-side guide to invisible, metal and ceramic braces that can help you narrow down the choice before your consultation.

References

Elekdag-Turk S, Yilmaz H. Ceramic Brackets Revisited. Current Approaches in Orthodontics, IntechOpen, 2018.
da Silva VD, et al. Analysis of the Influence of Food Colorings in Esthetic Orthodontic Elastomeric Ligatures. The Open Dentistry Journal, 2016.
Healthline. Ceramic Braces: Pros and Cons. Medically reviewed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do ceramic braces work as well as metal braces?

Yes. They move teeth with the same bracket-and-wire mechanics. The main differences are appearance, strength and price, not the end result. Your orthodontist may still suggest metal for certain bites or for patients who play contact sports.

Are ceramic braces painful?

They feel much the same as metal braces. Most people have some soreness for the first few days after the wire goes in and after adjustments. The bracket material does not make a meaningful difference to that soreness.

How much do ceramic braces cost in Kolkata?

At Teeth Care, indicative full-treatment costs are INR 65,000 to 75,000 for ceramic braces and INR 75,000 to 85,000 for ceramic clear braces. The exact figure is confirmed after your examination.

Will tea and coffee turn my ceramic braces yellow?

The brackets stain far less easily than the elastic ties. In a 2016 lab study on those ties, coffee and black tea caused the most staining. The ties are changed at your adjustment visits.

Can teenagers get ceramic braces?

Yes, once the adult teeth have come in. For younger children, an orthodontist first checks whether early treatment is needed. See our guide on early orthodontic evaluation for children.

Can ceramic braces damage my teeth?

Ceramic is harder than enamel, so it can wear opposing teeth in some bites, and removal needs proper technique. An experienced orthodontist plans around both risks, which is why the choice of clinic matters.

Wondering If Ceramic Braces Suit Your Bite?

Book an orthodontic consultation at any Teeth Care branch in Kolkata. We will check your bite and show you the options that fit it.

Book an Appointment Call +91 98315 26251

Available at our Chinar Park, New Town, Ballygunge, Dunlop and Charnock branches. This article is for general information and does not replace a clinical examination.

Retainers After Orthodontic Treatment Types, Care, and Why They Matter

04/09/202622/10/2026byankurOrthodontics

Retainer After Braces: Types, How Long to Wear and Care

The day the braces come off feels like a finish line. You run your tongue over smooth teeth, take a dozen selfies, and then the orthodontist hands you a small case with a retainer inside. For a lot of people, that is the moment the excitement dips a little.

It should not. A retainer after braces is what protects the months or years you just spent on treatment. Without one, teeth tend to drift back towards where they started. This guide explains why that happens, the types of retainers, how long you need to wear one, how to look after it, and what to do if it starts feeling tight.

What this guide covers

Why you need a retainer after braces
Types of retainers
Fixed vs removable: what research says
How long to wear a retainer after braces
How to clean your retainer
If your retainer feels tight, breaks or gets lost
What happens if you stop wearing it

Why You Need a Retainer After Braces

Teeth are not fixed in place like pillars in concrete. Each tooth sits in bone and is held by ligaments and gum fibres. During treatment, those tissues are stretched and remodelled as the teeth move. When the braces or aligners come off, the fibres still tend to pull teeth back towards their old positions. Orthodontists call this relapse.

Teeth also keep moving slightly throughout life, whether or not you ever had braces. That is why orthodontists treat retention as a long-term habit rather than a short phase. Cleveland Clinic’s guidance, for example, is full-time wear for at least four to six months and then night-time wear for the rest of your life.

Types of Retainers

At Teeth Care Multispeciality Dental Clinic, your orthodontist chooses the retainer based on how your teeth were moved and how likely they are to shift. There are three main types of retainers.

Type 1

Hawley Retainer (Wire and Acrylic)

The classic removable retainer. A thin wire runs across the front teeth and is attached to an acrylic plate that sits against the roof of the mouth or behind the lower teeth. It is made from an impression or scan of your teeth.

Good to know: sturdy and adjustable, but the front wire is visible and it can feel bulky at first.

Type 2

Essix Retainer (Clear Plastic)

A thin, transparent tray moulded to fit tightly over your teeth, much like a clear aligner. It is barely noticeable when you wear it.

Good to know: discreet and comfortable, but the plastic can crack or wear, so it may need replacing sooner.

Type 3

Permanent Retainer (Fixed or Bonded)

A thin wire glued to the back of the front teeth, most often the lower ones. Because it stays in, you never forget to wear it.

Good to know: invisible from the front and always working, but you need to clean carefully around it, and the bond can come loose.

Fixed vs Removable Retainer After Braces: What Research Says

The most complete summary of the evidence is a 2023 Cochrane review of retention, which looked at 47 studies with 4,377 children and adults. Its honest headline is that the evidence is mostly low quality and the authors could not draw firm conclusions about one retention approach being better than another. Within that, a few findings are useful when you choose:

Comparison	What the 2023 Cochrane review found
Clear removable vs fixed (lower teeth)	No clinically meaningful difference in how well teeth stayed in place
Breakage and failure	Clear removable retainers failed more often than fixed ones when worn full-time, but less often when worn part-time
Gum health	Better with removable clear retainers than with fixed wires in one study
Hawley vs clear plastic	Similar stability; Hawley retainers failed less often but were less comfortable
Part-time vs full-time Hawley wear	No evidence of a difference in stability in one study

In practice, many orthodontists combine options, for example a permanent retainer on the lower front teeth and a removable one for the upper teeth. The right mix depends on your original problem, your gums and how reliably you will wear a removable retainer.

How Long to Wear a Retainer After Braces

The short answer is: for as long as you want your teeth to stay straight. The usual pattern looks like this, though your orthodontist will set your own schedule.

Stage	Typical guidance
First 4 to 6 months	Removable retainer worn full-time, taken out only to eat and clean
After that	Night-time wear, as your orthodontist advises
Long term	Night-time wear continuing indefinitely, according to Cleveland Clinic and Healthline guidance
Permanent retainer	Stays on day and night; checked at your dental visits

Simple check: if your removable retainer feels tight after a night or two off, your teeth have already started to move. Go back to wearing it as prescribed and call your orthodontist if the tightness does not settle.

How to Clean a Retainer After Braces

For Hawley and Essix retainers

Rinse every time you take it out. Use lukewarm water, not hot.
Brush it gently every day. Use a soft toothbrush. Many toothpastes are abrasive and can scratch the plastic, so ask your orthodontist what to use. Mild soap and water is a common choice.
Brush your own teeth first. Putting a retainer over unbrushed teeth traps food against them.
Keep it away from heat. Never boil it, wash it in very hot water or leave it near a stove or on a car dashboard. Heat can warp the fit.
Use the case. Wrapping a retainer in a tissue at mealtimes is an easy way to throw it away by mistake.

For a permanent retainer

Floss under the wire. A floss threader or interdental brush makes this much easier.
Angle your brush. Brush both up-and-down and side-to-side around the wire.
Keep regular dental check-ups. The dentist can spot a loose bond or tartar build-up early.

If Your Retainer Feels Tight, Breaks or Gets Lost

Tight

Do not force it

A slightly snug feeling after a short break is common. If it will not seat properly or hurts, stop and call the clinic. Forcing an old retainer onto teeth that have moved can be painful.

Broken

Bring all the pieces

A cracked Essix tray or a bent Hawley wire usually needs replacing or adjusting. If a permanent retainer comes loose on one tooth, book a visit soon, because a partly attached wire can let teeth move unexpectedly.

Lost

Replace it quickly

Every week without a retainer gives teeth time to drift. A new retainer is made from fresh scans or impressions, so the sooner you come in, the closer it fits to your finished result.

What Happens If You Stop Wearing Your Retainer?

Teeth start drifting back. How much depends on how long you go without it and how far your teeth were moved. Common signs include:

Lower front teeth crowding again
Small gaps reopening where spaces were closed
The bite gradually changing
The retainer no longer fitting

If teeth have already moved, it can usually be corrected, sometimes with a new retainer and sometimes with a short course of clear aligners or braces. Cleveland Clinic notes that a retainer can nudge back only small, recent changes, so larger shifts need proper treatment. Wearing the retainer is far easier and cheaper than doing the treatment twice.

If you are an adult who finished braces years ago and noticed your teeth moving, our guide on adult orthodontic treatment in Kolkata explains your options. You can also see every brace and aligner option on our orthodontic treatment page.

References

Martin C, et al. Retention procedures for stabilising tooth position after treatment with orthodontic braces. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2023.
Cleveland Clinic. Teeth Retainer. Reviewed 2025.
Healthline. Retainers After Braces: Use and Cleaning Guidelines. Medically reviewed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I need to wear a retainer after braces?

Usually full-time for the first four to six months, then at night. Cleveland Clinic and Healthline both describe night-time wear continuing indefinitely. Your orthodontist will set the exact schedule for your case.

Which retainer is best after braces?

No single type is clearly best. A 2023 Cochrane review found similar stability between clear removable and fixed retainers, with differences mainly in breakage, comfort and gum health. Your orthodontist chooses based on your teeth and habits.

What is the difference between a Hawley and an Essix retainer?

A Hawley retainer has a visible wire across the front teeth attached to an acrylic plate. An Essix retainer is a clear plastic tray that covers the teeth. Both are removable. Research found similar stability, with Hawley retainers breaking less often.

Is a permanent retainer really permanent?

It is designed to stay on long term, but the bond can loosen or the wire can break. It needs careful cleaning and regular check-ups so problems are caught early.

My retainer feels tight. What should I do?

A slight tightness after missing a night or two means teeth have started to move. Wear it as prescribed. If it will not seat properly or hurts, do not force it and contact your orthodontist.

Can I clean my retainer with toothpaste or hot water?

Avoid hot water, which can warp it, and ask your orthodontist before using toothpaste, as many are abrasive. A soft brush with lukewarm water and mild soap is a common routine.

Need a New Retainer or a Retention Check-Up?

Visit any Teeth Care branch in Kolkata for a retainer consultation, replacement, or post-treatment review.

Book an Appointment Call +91 98315 26251

Available at our Chinar Park, New Town, Ballygunge, Dunlop and Charnock branches. This article is for general information and does not replace a clinical examination.

28/08/202622/10/2026byankurChildren, Orthodontics, pediatric dentistry

Early Orthodontic Evaluation for Children: When Should Your Child See an Orthodontist?

An early orthodontic evaluation is one of the simplest ways to protect your child’s smile. Most parents assume orthodontic treatment begins when all permanent teeth have come in, typically around age 12 or 13. By that point, however, certain jaw and alignment problems are already well established and harder to correct. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children first visit an orthodontist no later than age 7. That first visit is what we call an early orthodontic evaluation.

Why age 7? At this stage, children have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth. This “mixed dentition” gives the orthodontist a window into how the jaw is developing, whether the permanent teeth have enough room, and whether any intervention is needed now or can wait. Early evaluation does not always mean early treatment. It means early information, which leads to better timing and better outcomes.

At Teeth Care Multispeciality Dental Clinic, our Consultant Orthodontist Dr. Jeet Singh (BDS, MDS) works closely with our Pediatric Dentistry team to evaluate children’s orthodontic needs at the right age and recommend treatment only when it is genuinely necessary.

What this guide covers

Why the AAO recommends evaluation by age 7
Warning signs parents should watch for
What happens at an early orthodontic evaluation
What is Phase 1 (interceptive) treatment?
When the orthodontist says “wait and watch”
Benefits of early evaluation
Frequently asked questions

Why the AAO Recommends Evaluation by Age 7

By age 7, a child’s first permanent molars have usually erupted and the front permanent teeth (incisors) are starting to come in. This gives the orthodontist enough information to assess three critical things:

Jaw growth direction

Is the upper jaw growing in proportion to the lower jaw? A narrow upper jaw or a forward-positioned lower jaw is much easier to correct while the child is still growing. After growth stops (around age 14 to 16), these corrections may require surgery instead of an appliance.

Space for permanent teeth

The orthodontist can predict whether there will be enough room for all permanent teeth. If severe crowding is expected, early space management can prevent extractions later.

Developing bite problems

Crossbites, underbites, and deep bites are easier to address when the bone is still soft and growing. Our guide on deep bites and how they are treated explains these conditions in detail.

Important: An evaluation at age 7 does not mean your child will get braces at age 7. Most children evaluated at this age do not need immediate treatment. The evaluation creates a baseline, and the orthodontist monitors growth over time to intervene at the optimal moment.

Warning Signs That Call for an Early Orthodontic Evaluation

Even before the age-7 early orthodontic evaluation, certain signs may indicate that your child should see an orthodontist sooner. These are not emergencies, but they are signals that professional assessment is worthwhile:

Sign	What It May Indicate
Early or late loss of baby teeth	Can cause space problems for incoming permanent teeth. Space maintainers may be needed to hold gaps open.
Difficulty chewing or biting	May indicate a bite misalignment that affects function, not just appearance.
Mouth breathing or snoring	Can be related to a narrow upper jaw. Palatal expanders can widen the jaw and improve airflow.
Thumb or finger sucking past age 5	Prolonged habits push teeth forward and can create an open bite. Simple habit-breaking appliances can help.
Crowded or overlapping front teeth	Visible crowding by age 7 or 8 often indicates insufficient jaw space for the remaining permanent teeth.
Lower teeth biting in front of upper teeth	Underbite. Easier to correct with growth modification when the child is young.
Upper and lower front teeth not meeting	Open bite. Often linked to tongue thrust or prolonged pacifier use.
Jaw shifting to one side when closing	Crossbite. Can cause asymmetric jaw growth if not addressed.

If you notice any of these, a visit to the orthodontist is a sensible next step. It does not commit you to treatment; it gives you information.

What Happens at an Early Orthodontic Evaluation

An early orthodontic evaluation at Teeth Care Dental is straightforward and non-invasive. Here is what to expect:

Step 1

Clinical Examination

The orthodontist examines your child’s teeth, bite, jaw alignment, and facial symmetry. This takes about 15 to 20 minutes and is painless.

Step 2

X-rays (if needed)

A panoramic X-ray shows the position of all teeth, including those still inside the bone. A lateral cephalogram helps assess jaw growth direction. These are taken only when clinically indicated.

Step 3

Discussion with Parents

The orthodontist explains what they found, whether any action is needed now, and what the recommended timeline looks like. If no immediate treatment is needed, a follow-up schedule is set for monitoring.

If any dental issues are found during the evaluation, such as cavities or early gum problems, our General Dentistry team addresses them first. Healthy teeth and gums are always the foundation before any orthodontic work begins.

What Is Phase 1 (Interceptive) Treatment?

Phase 1 orthodontics, also called interceptive treatment, is a focused course of treatment done while a child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth, typically between ages 7 and 10. It is not the same as full braces treatment. Phase 1 targets specific problems that will worsen if left untreated, while leaving comprehensive alignment for later (Phase 2) if needed.

Common Phase 1 treatments

Appliance	Purpose	Typical Duration
Palatal expander	Widens a narrow upper jaw to correct crossbite and create space	6 to 12 months
Space maintainer	Holds space open after early loss of a baby tooth	Until the permanent tooth erupts
Habit-breaking appliance	Stops thumb sucking or tongue thrust habits	3 to 6 months
Partial braces	Corrects specific problems (e.g., protruding front teeth at injury risk)	6 to 12 months
Growth modification appliance	Guides jaw growth in cases of underbite or significant overbite	6 to 18 months

After Phase 1, there is usually a rest period while the remaining permanent teeth erupt. Some children then need Phase 2 (comprehensive braces or aligners in their teens), while others find that the early intervention was sufficient and only minor work, or none at all, is needed later.

When the Orthodontist Says “Wait and Watch”

This is the most common outcome of an age-7 evaluation. The orthodontist may say: “Everything looks fine for now. Let’s monitor and re-evaluate in 6 to 12 months.”

This is not a dismissal. It is a clinical decision. Many alignment issues resolve naturally as the jaw grows and more permanent teeth come in. Treating too early is as problematic as treating too late, because it can mean longer overall treatment time and unnecessary cost.

At Teeth Care Dental, monitoring visits for children are brief check-ins where the orthodontist tracks growth and eruption patterns. When the right moment to intervene arrives, the team is ready to act.

Benefits of Early Orthodontic Evaluation

Clinical benefits

Identifies jaw growth problems while correction is easiest
Reduces the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
Prevents crossbites from causing asymmetric jaw growth
Creates space naturally, potentially avoiding extractions later
Shortens or simplifies Phase 2 (teen braces) when needed

Practical benefits for parents

Gives you a clear timeline so there are no surprises
Allows financial planning for future treatment
Reduces anxiety for both parent and child
Prevents costly emergency treatment from preventable injuries
Builds your child’s comfort with the orthodontist early

An early orthodontic evaluation does not commit you to treatment. In many cases the orthodontist simply records your child’s growth and sets a review date. If treatment is needed, an early orthodontic evaluation means it can start at the most effective time rather than too late.

References

American Association of Orthodontists. Orthodontics for Children: Developing a Healthy Smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is age 7 too young for an orthodontic check-up?

No. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, the orthodontist can assess jaw growth, tooth development, and available space. Most children do not need treatment immediately. The visit is primarily for screening and monitoring.

Will my child definitely need braces after an early evaluation?

Not necessarily. Many children only need periodic monitoring as their teeth and jaws develop. An early evaluation helps determine whether treatment is needed now or whether development is progressing normally.

What is the difference between Phase 1 and Phase 2 treatment?

Phase 1, or interceptive treatment, addresses specific growth or alignment problems while children still have a mix of baby and permanent teeth. It may involve palatal expanders, space maintainers, or partial braces. Phase 2 is comprehensive treatment with full braces or aligners after most or all permanent teeth have erupted. Not every child who receives Phase 1 treatment will need Phase 2.

My child still sucks their thumb. Should I be worried?

Thumb sucking is common in younger children, but continued thumb sucking beyond around age 5 or 6 may affect tooth position and jaw development. An orthodontic evaluation can determine whether the habit is causing dental changes and whether habit-breaking treatment may be helpful.

Does early treatment cost more than just waiting for braces later?

Not always. When early treatment is genuinely needed, it may reduce the complexity of later orthodontic treatment. In some cases, early intervention can help address problems that might otherwise require more extensive treatment.

Can my child's regular dentist do the orthodontic evaluation?

A pediatric dentist can identify visible alignment concerns, but an orthodontist has specialized training in jaw growth, tooth movement, cephalometric analysis, and eruption patterns. At Teeth Care, the Pediatric Dentistry team and Consultant Orthodontist work together to provide a comprehensive assessment.

Book Your Child’s First Orthodontic Evaluation

A short, painless check-up can give you years of peace of mind. Visit any Teeth Care branch in Kolkata.

Book an Appointment Call +91 98315 26251

21/08/202622/10/2026byankurDental, Orthodontics

Orthodontist vs Dentist: Why a Specialist Matters for Teeth Alignment

Orthodontist vs dentist: when you decide to straighten your teeth, one of the first choices you face is who should do it. Many general dentists in Kolkata offer braces and aligners, but that does not make them orthodontists. The difference matters more than most patients realise, especially for complex cases involving bite correction, jaw alignment, or treatment that spans 12 to 24 months.

This guide explains the actual difference between a dentist and an orthodontist, why specialist training leads to better outcomes, and what to look for when choosing your provider.

What this guide covers

What is the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?
The training gap: BDS vs MDS in Orthodontics
Side-by-side comparison
When does the difference matter most?
What to check before choosing your provider
Our Consultant Orthodontist at Teeth Care
Frequently asked questions

Orthodontist vs Dentist: What Is the Difference?

The orthodontist vs dentist difference starts with training, so that is where this comparison begins.

A dentist completes a 4 to 5 year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree. This covers general dental care: fillings, extractions, cleaning, root canals, and basic preventive treatment. Orthodontics is taught at the BDS level, but only as an overview, not as hands-on specialist training.

An orthodontist is a dentist who then completes an additional 3-year Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) specialising in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics. This training focuses entirely on tooth movement, jaw development, bite mechanics, and the biomechanics of different appliance systems.

In short: every orthodontist is a dentist, but not every dentist is an orthodontist. The additional 3 years of specialist training make a measurable difference in diagnosis accuracy, treatment planning, and handling complications.

The Training Gap: BDS vs MDS in Orthodontics

In practical terms, the orthodontist vs dentist gap comes down to the extra years an orthodontist spends learning tooth movement and jaw growth.

Area	General Dentist (BDS)	Orthodontist (MDS Orthodontics)
Orthodontic training duration	A few weeks within a broader curriculum	3 full years of dedicated study and clinical practice
Clinical cases treated during training	Minimal to none independently	Hundreds of supervised cases across all complexity levels
Biomechanics knowledge	Basic theory	Advanced wire bending, force systems, anchorage planning
Jaw growth and development	General overview	Deep understanding of cephalometric analysis and growth modification
Appliance systems mastered	Typically 1 to 2 (often only aligners)	Metal, ceramic, self-ligating, lingual, functional appliances, and aligners
Complication management	Limited experience	Trained to handle root resorption, anchorage loss, mid-treatment course corrections

Orthodontist vs Dentist: Side-by-Side Comparison

This orthodontist vs dentist table sums up what each brings to braces and aligner treatment.

General Dentist for Orthodontics

Can handle simple cases (mild crowding, minor spacing)
May rely on aligner companies for treatment planning rather than designing the plan themselves
Limited experience with complex bite correction
May not have the tools or training to manage mid-treatment problems
Often cannot offer the full range of appliance options

Specialist Orthodontist (MDS)

Diagnoses root causes of misalignment, not just the visible symptoms
Designs your treatment plan based on clinical analysis, not algorithm-generated suggestions
Competent across all appliance types and recommends the right one for your case
Trained to handle complications and course-correct when needed
Understands jaw growth patterns for children and teens

Orthodontist vs Dentist: When Does the Difference Matter Most?

For mild spacing or minor crowding with clear aligners, a general dentist with aligner training may deliver acceptable results. But the specialist advantage becomes critical when:

Bite correction is needed (overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite). Read our detailed guide on overbite, underbite, crossbite and open bite, or our article on deep bite treatment.
The case involves jaw discrepancy, not just crooked teeth.
You are choosing between multiple appliance types and want an unbiased recommendation.
Previous treatment has failed or relapsed, requiring retreatment.
A child needs early evaluation to assess jaw growth and interceptive treatment timing.
Other dental work is needed alongside alignment, such as dental implants or root canal treatment.

A common pattern to watch for: Some clinics advertise “orthodontic treatment” but the actual provider is a general dentist using an aligner system with company-generated treatment plans. Always ask about the treating doctor’s specific qualification before starting.

What to Check Before Choosing Your Provider

In the orthodontist vs dentist decision, the questions below help you check the training and experience of whoever plans your treatment.

Question to Ask	Why It Matters
Is the treating doctor an MDS in Orthodontics?	Confirms specialist qualification, not just a general BDS
How many orthodontic cases have they treated?	Experience matters, especially for complex cases
Do they offer all brace types or only aligners?	A provider who only offers one system may not recommend the best option for you
Will I receive a written treatment plan with costs before starting?	Transparency prevents surprises mid-treatment
Is the clinic multispeciality?	Coordination with other specialists (restorative, endodontic, prosthodontic) is often needed

Orthodontist vs Dentist for Children

For children, the choice matters even more because the jaws are still growing. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit an orthodontist no later than age 7. At that age an orthodontist can spot problems with jaw growth, crowding or the bite while there is still time to guide them, and can also tell you when no treatment is needed yet.

Your family dentist remains the right person for check-ups, cleaning and fillings. The orthodontist adds a specialist view of how the teeth and jaws are developing. Our guide to early orthodontic evaluation for children explains what happens at that first visit, and our article on deep bite treatment shows one bite problem that is easier to manage when it is caught early.

Our Consultant Orthodontist at Teeth Care Dental

If you are still weighing up orthodontist vs dentist, the simplest step is to meet a specialist and ask the questions above.

At Teeth Care Multispeciality Dental Clinic, orthodontic treatment is led by Dr. Jeet Singh (BDS, MDS), a postgraduate-qualified Consultant Orthodontist. He is supported by Chief Dentist Dr. Sanket Chakraverty (BDS, MDS Prosthodontics and Implantology), ensuring every patient receives specialist-level care backed by a full multispeciality team of 22+ MDS specialists.

All brace types are available, from metal and ceramic to Damon self-ligating and clear aligners, and every treatment plan is designed by the orthodontist after clinical evaluation, not by an algorithm.

For a complete overview of braces types, pricing, and specialist credentials, visit our best dentist for braces in Kolkata page.

Can a general dentist legally do braces?

Yes, a registered BDS dentist can legally provide orthodontic treatment in India. However, legal permission and clinical competence are different. An MDS in Orthodontics includes 3 additional years of specialist training, which can be particularly valuable for diagnosis and complex cases.

Are orthodontists more expensive than general dentists?

Not necessarily. Cost depends mainly on the appliance type and case complexity rather than the provider’s qualification. At Teeth Care Dental, orthodontic treatment starts from ₹60,000 with EMI options. The key difference is specialist planning and treatment management.

What if my case is simple? Do I still need an orthodontist?

Specialist evaluation can still be beneficial for apparently simple cases. Mild crowding may sometimes be associated with an underlying bite problem that requires X-rays and cephalometric analysis. An orthodontist can identify these issues before treatment begins.

How do I verify if someone is actually an MDS Orthodontist?

You can ask to see their degree certificate or verify their professional registration with the relevant dental regulatory authority or State Dental Council. A qualified orthodontist should be able to explain their MDS training and professional background.

Does Teeth Care Dental have a specialist orthodontist at every branch?

Dr. Jeet Singh (BDS, MDS) serves as Consultant Orthodontist across all 5 Teeth Care branches in Kolkata. Orthodontic appointments are scheduled so that patients can be evaluated by the specialist regardless of which branch they visit.

Get Specialist Orthodontic Care in Kolkata

Book a free consultation with our MDS Consultant Orthodontist at any of our 5 branches.

Book an Appointment Call +91 98315 26251

14/08/202622/10/2026byankurOrthodontics

Adult Orthodontic Treatment in Kolkata: It Is Never Too Late for a Better Smile

If you have been putting off straightening your teeth because you think orthodontic treatment is only for teenagers, you are not alone. Many adults in Kolkata assume they have “missed the window” for braces or aligners. The reality is different. Adult orthodontic treatment works well at any age, and more adults are choosing it now than ever before.

At Teeth Care Multispeciality Dental Clinic, our Consultant Orthodontist Dr. Jeet Singh (BDS, MDS) treats patients across all age groups, from children to adults in their 50s and beyond. This guide covers what adult orthodontic treatment involves, which options suit working professionals, and why age should never be a barrier to getting the smile you want.

What this guide covers

Why more adults are choosing orthodontic treatment
Orthodontic options for adults
Common concerns adults have
What the treatment process looks like
Are you a candidate?
Adult orthodontic treatment cost in Kolkata
Frequently asked questions

Why More Adults Are Choosing Orthodontic Treatment

You would be in good company. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, 1 in 3 orthodontic patients today are adults, which shows how common adult orthodontic treatment has become.

Adult orthodontics has grown steadily in India and globally. Several factors are driving this shift:

Better treatment options. A decade ago, metal braces were the only realistic choice. Today, adults have access to ceramic braces, self-ligating Damon systems, and Invisalign clear aligners that are nearly invisible. The barrier of “looking like a teenager” no longer applies.
Greater awareness of oral health. Crooked or crowded teeth are harder to clean, which raises the risk of cavities, gum disease, and uneven wear. Adults who want to protect their teeth long term are realising that alignment is not just about looks.
Professional and social confidence. A well-aligned smile affects how people present themselves in meetings, interviews, and social situations. Many working professionals in Kolkata are choosing treatment specifically for this reason.
Affordability. EMI options and a wider range of treatment tiers mean orthodontic care is no longer out of reach for most adults. For adult patients considering orthodontic treatment later in life, read our detailed guide on adult orthodontic treatment in Kolkata.

Orthodontic Options for Adults

At Teeth Care Dental, we offer the full range of orthodontic systems. Your Consultant Orthodontist will recommend the best fit based on your alignment issue, lifestyle, and budget.

Treatment	Best For	Visibility	Typical Duration
Metal Braces	Moderate to severe crowding and bite issues	Visible	12 to 24 months
Ceramic Braces	Adults who want less visible fixed braces	Tooth-coloured	12 to 24 months
Damon Self-Ligating Braces	Faster treatment with fewer adjustment visits	Metal or clear options	10 to 20 months
Clear Aligners (Invisalign)	Mild to moderate cases, maximum discretion	Nearly invisible	6 to 18 months

For a detailed comparison of all brace types and their pricing, visit our Orthodontics service page. If you are leaning toward invisible trays, our dedicated clear aligners guide covers the step-by-step process, candidacy, and cost tiers.

Common Concerns Adults Have About Orthodontic Treatment

“Will braces look unprofessional at work?”

Ceramic braces and clear aligners are designed specifically for adults who need to maintain a professional appearance. Clear aligners are virtually undetectable in conversation. Many of our patients in Kolkata are working professionals, teachers, and business owners who complete treatment without colleagues noticing.

“Is treatment painful for adults?”

Adult orthodontic treatment involves the same controlled forces as treatment for younger patients. You will feel pressure after adjustments or when switching to a new aligner tray, but this settles within a few days. Pain is not a reason to avoid treatment.

“Does it take longer for adults?”

Adult bone is denser than growing bone, so tooth movement can be slightly slower. However, the difference is modest. Most adult cases complete within 12 to 24 months, and mild cases with aligners can finish in as few as 6 months.

“I have old fillings and crowns. Can I still get treatment?”

Yes. Adults often have previous dental work. Our Consultant Orthodontist coordinates with our Prosthodontics and Restorative Dentistry teams to plan around existing crowns, bridges, and fillings. This is one of the advantages of being treated at a multispeciality clinic.

What the Treatment Process Looks Like

Step 1

Initial Consultation

Dr. Jeet Singh examines your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment. X-rays and digital scans may be taken. Any pre-existing issues like cavities or gum disease are identified and a treatment plan is discussed.

Step 2

Pre-Treatment Preparation

If you need any dental work before starting orthodontics, such as root canal treatment, fillings, or professional teeth cleaning, it is completed first. Healthy teeth and gums are essential before braces or aligners are fitted.

Step 3

Appliance Fitting

Your braces are bonded or your first set of aligner trays is issued. You receive detailed instructions on care, diet (for fixed braces), and what to expect in the first few days.

Step 4

Regular Review Visits

You visit the clinic every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments (braces) or to collect the next set of trays (aligners). We also recommend professional cleaning every 3 to 4 months during treatment.

Step 5

Retention

After your teeth reach their final position, a retainer is fitted to hold the result. Retainers are a critical part of treatment for adults, since teeth can shift back if not retained properly.

Are You a Candidate for Adult Orthodontic Treatment?

Good candidates

Adults with crowded, gapped, or misaligned teeth
Patients with bite issues (overbite, underbite, crossbite)
Adults who had braces as teenagers but experienced relapse
Patients with healthy gums and adequate bone support
Anyone motivated to follow the treatment plan

May need preparation first

Active gum disease (treated before orthodontics begins)
Untreated cavities or infected teeth
Significant bone loss (assessment required)
Multiple missing teeth (may need dental implants as part of the plan)

Not sure where you stand? A free consultation at any of our 5 Kolkata branches will give you a clear answer.

Adult Orthodontic Treatment Cost in Kolkata

Treatment	Starting From	Up To
Metal Braces	₹60,000	₹70,000
Ceramic Braces	₹65,000	₹75,000
Damon Metal Braces	₹80,000	₹1,00,000
Damon Clear Braces	₹95,000	₹1,30,000
Clear Aligners	₹75,000	₹5,00,000

Final cost is confirmed after your clinical assessment. Book a free consultation for an accurate quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an age limit for orthodontic treatment?

There is no upper age limit. As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, orthodontic treatment can work at any age. At Teeth Care Dental, adults in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond are regularly treated.

Can I get braces if I have crowns or fillings?

Yes. Brackets can be bonded to most crowns and fillings. In some cases, the orthodontist may coordinate with the Prosthodontics team to replace or adjust a crown after alignment is complete.

Which option is most popular among adults?

Clear aligners and ceramic braces are two of the most requested options among adult patients. Clear aligners are preferred for mild to moderate cases, while ceramic braces can handle more complex alignment and bite correction with minimal visibility.

Will orthodontic treatment affect my daily routine?

The impact is minimal. Fixed braces require some dietary adjustments and extra brushing time. Clear aligners can be removed while eating, so they have no dietary restrictions. Most adults adjust within the first week.

How often will I need to visit the clinic?

Typically every 4 to 6 weeks for braces adjustments, or every 6 to 8 weeks for aligner check-ins. Teeth Care Dental has 5 branches across Kolkata for convenient visits.

Do I need a retainer after treatment?

Yes, retention is an important part of orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist may recommend a removable night retainer or a fixed bonded retainer depending on your case.

Ready to Straighten Your Smile?

Book a free consultation with our Consultant Orthodontist at your nearest Teeth Care branch in Kolkata.

Book an Appointment Call +91 98315 26251

1 2

What this guide covers

How Long Do Braces Take on Average?

What Happens Month by Month

Levelling and aligning

Closing spaces and correcting the bite

Finishing and detailing

What Makes Braces Take Longer?

Does the Type of Braces Change How Long Braces Take?

What About 6 Month Braces?

5 Habits That Keep You on Schedule

Do not miss adjustment visits

Wear rubber bands exactly as told

Keep your teeth and gums clean

Protect your brackets

Ask for your progress at each visit

References

Frequently Asked Questions

Also Read

Want to Know Your Own Timeline?

What this guide covers

What Is a Palatal Expander?

Why Would a Child Need a Palatal Expander?

Why Age Matters for a Palatal Expander

How Palatal Expander Treatment Works, Step by Step

Records and fitting

Turning the key at home

Active expansion, usually a few weeks

Holding phase, several months

The Gap Between the Front Teeth

Eating, Cleaning and Comfort

What is normal

Foods to avoid

Palatal Expander for Adults and Older Teens

References

Frequently Asked Questions

Also Read

Has Your Child Been Advised an Expander?

What this guide covers

What Are Lingual Braces?

Where Lingual Braces Came From

Speech, Tongue Comfort and Cleaning With Lingual Braces

Lingual Braces vs Other Options

Who Lingual Braces Suit

Often a good fit

Discuss carefully first

Lingual Braces Cost in India

The First Few Weeks With Lingual Braces

Tongue and speech adjust

Teeth feel sore, then settle

Most people feel normal again

Clean behind the teeth

References

Frequently Asked Questions

Also Read

Want Braces Nobody Can See?

What this guide covers

Do Braces Hurt When They Are Put On?

Why Teeth Feel Sore

The First Week, Day by Day

How to Relieve Braces Pain

Use orthodontic wax on rubbing brackets

Try something cold

Rinse with warm salt water

Ask before taking painkillers

What to Eat in the First Week

Easy on sore teeth

Avoid for now (and mostly always)

Pain After Adjustments

When to Call Your Orthodontist

References

Frequently Asked Questions

Also Read

Planning to Start Braces?

What this guide covers

What Are Self-Ligating Braces?

Active vs Passive Self-Ligating Braces

Passive self-ligating

Active self-ligating

Are Self-Ligating Braces Faster or Less Painful?

Real Advantages and Limits