Braces

Braces are meant for patients who have complaints of protruded/ forwardly placed teeth or crooked/ irregular teeth. The treatment duration is between 1 to 1 ½ yrs depending on the severity of the condition. Treatment may sometimes also necessitate removal (extraction) of two to four teeth as indicated by each individual’s facial pattern and severity of problem. Treatment involves attaching brackets to the teeth and inserting wires and pulling them back into their correct position.

Common FAQ’s

What is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry which deals with the causes, prevention and treatment of irregularities in the position of the jaws and teeth. Orthodontic treatment plays an important role in healthy teeth upkeep. Not only does it deal with health of our teeth and gums (since crooked teeth and poor jaw alignment) are prime causes of decay and gum disease), it also deals with esthetics of mouth – for orthodontics can transform severe deformities into beautiful shining smiles.
Do I need braces?
If you/ your child have crowded, spaced, protruding or otherwise misaligned teeth then you are a candidate for braces. Other functional problems such as difficulty in chewing, thumb or finger sucking, mouth breathing, tongue thrusting and TMJ problems may also require braces.

When should braces be started?
Braces can be done for all age groups. However, it is recommended that a child’s first orthodontic evaluation should be done by the age of 8 years . The early examination will not necessarily result in immediate treatment- but may prevent future tooth extractions, decrease the treatment time and save money in the long run.
How long does braces treatment take?
Treatment time depends on severity of the orthodontic problem, growth potential and other factors such as missing teeth, gum disease cavities and the general dental and medical health. Most braces treatment can behowever resolved in 14-24 months.

Do Braces damage teeth?
No. however, if a patient fails to keep the braces clean there is a chance of decalcification or decay. To avoid problems like these it is important to keep your teeth and braces clean.
What if you do not treat with braces?
Apart from a social stigma/ embarrassment associated with an unappealing / unaesthetic facial appearance non treatment may also affect the self-confidence and self-esteem of the person.
Prolonged misalignment will lead to oral hygiene issues and will eventually end in weak / compromised / carious teeth.