Crooked or crowded teeth are not just a cosmetic issue. Misaligned teeth are hard to clean, which sharply raises the risk of decay and gum disease. A bad bite overloads particular teeth, wearing them down and sometimes causing jaw joint pain.
Problems braces correct
- Crowding — teeth overlapping for lack of space
- Spacing — abnormal gaps between teeth
- Overjet — upper front teeth protruding
- Underbite — lower teeth sitting in front of the upper
- Open bite / cross bite — teeth not meeting correctly
Types of braces
Metal braces
The most common and effective. Stainless steel brackets and wires handle even complex cases at the lowest cost. Coloured elastics are popular with teenagers.
Ceramic braces
Tooth-coloured brackets that are barely visible at conversational distance — well suited to adults and professionals. Slightly higher cost.
Treatment stages
- Assessment — X-rays, photographs and impressions to build a full plan
- Preparation — scaling, fillings, or extractions to create space if needed
- Bonding — a single 1–1.5 hour appointment
- Adjustments — wire changes every 4–6 weeks
- Retainers — essential after braces come off to hold the result
Important: without retainers, teeth begin drifting back. Two years of work can be undone in a few months.
Caring for braces
- Brush after every meal with an orthodontic and interdental brush
- Avoid hard and sticky foods (hard nuts, ice, chewing gum, hard sweets)
- Cut firm fruit such as apple and guava into small pieces
- Contact us promptly if a bracket comes loose or a wire is poking
