General FAQs About Braces
- What are braces?
Braces are orthodontic devices made of brackets and wires that gradually move teeth into the correct position by applying gentle, consistent pressure. - Who needs braces?
People with crooked teeth, overcrowding, spacing issues, overbites, underbites, or crossbites may need braces to improve both function and appearance. - At what age can you get braces?
Braces can be started once permanent teeth erupt, usually between ages 10–14. However, adults of any age can benefit from braces. - Can adults get braces?
Yes, adults can get braces. Orthodontic treatment is effective at any age, though it may take slightly longer than in children. - Do braces only improve appearance?
No. Braces also improve chewing, speech, oral hygiene, and prevent long-term dental problems like gum disease and jaw issues. - Can braces fix gaps in teeth?
Yes. Braces are one of the most effective ways to permanently close gaps and align teeth properly. - How do braces work?
Braces use brackets bonded to teeth and connected with wires. These apply controlled force, slowly moving teeth into proper alignment. - Do braces damage teeth?
No, braces don’t damage teeth when applied and monitored correctly. Poor hygiene, however, can cause staining or decay during treatment. - Can braces fix bite problems?
Yes. Braces can correct overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. Severe cases may require additional appliances. -
How long does it take to see results with braces?
Most patients notice changes within 3–6 months, but full results typically take 12–24 months.
Types of Braces
- What are metal braces?
Metal braces use stainless steel brackets and wires. They’re strong, effective, and the most affordable option. - What are ceramic braces?
Ceramic braces use tooth-colored brackets that blend with teeth, making them less noticeable. - What are self-ligating braces?
Self-ligating braces use special clips instead of rubber bands, reducing friction, making treatment faster and more comfortable. - What are lingual braces?
Lingual braces are placed behind the teeth, making them invisible. They’re effective but harder to clean and adjust. - What are clear aligners?
Clear aligners are transparent, removable trays that gradually shift teeth. They’re nearly invisible and convenient but may cost more. - Which type of braces is the fastest?
Self-ligating braces and aligners may provide faster results in certain cases due to efficient tooth movement. - Which braces are best for adults?
Ceramic braces and clear aligners are popular among adults for aesthetic reasons. - Which braces are the least visible?
Clear aligners and lingual braces are virtually invisible. - Do braces work differently depending on type?
All braces work on the same principle of pressure. The choice depends on aesthetics, comfort, cost, and case complexity. - Are aligners better than braces?
Aligners are more discreet and removable, while braces handle complex cases better. An orthodontist will recommend the best option.
Cost of Braces
- How much do braces cost in India?
Braces in India cost between ₹25,000 and ₹1,50,000 depending on type, case complexity, and city. - Are metal braces cheaper than other types?
Yes, metal braces are the most affordable option, starting from ₹25,000. - How much do ceramic braces cost?
Ceramic braces cost ₹40,000–₹80,000 on average. - How much do self-ligating braces cost?
Self-ligating braces usually start at ₹60,000 and may go above ₹1,00,000. - How much do invisible braces (aligners) cost?
Aligners typically range from ₹30,000 to ₹1,50,000 depending on treatment length. - Does insurance cover braces?
Most insurance policies in India don’t cover braces, as they’re considered cosmetic. - Are EMI options available for braces?
Yes, Sabka Dentist offers 0% EMI plans, starting as low as ₹2,000/month. - Why are braces expensive?
Costs cover orthodontist expertise, treatment duration, multiple visits, and advanced materials. - Are braces a one-time cost?
Braces cost is usually spread across installments during treatment. Retainers after braces may be an additional cost. - Are braces worth the investment?
Yes. Braces improve health, confidence, and prevent expensive dental problems in the future.
Duration & Treatment Time
- How long does braces treatment last?
Usually 12–24 months, depending on case severity. - Can braces treatment finish in 6 months?
Mild corrections may be completed in 6–9 months, but most cases take longer. - Do children’s braces take less time?
Yes, children’s bones are more adaptable, so treatment may be faster. - Do adults take longer with braces?
Yes, adults’ teeth may move more slowly, but results are still excellent. - What factors affect braces treatment time?
Severity of misalignment, age, type of braces, and patient compliance. - Do missed appointments delay treatment?
Yes, skipping appointments can extend treatment. - How often are braces adjusted?
Usually every 4–8 weeks. - Can braces treatment be sped up?
Self-ligating braces, aligners, and good patient compliance can shorten treatment time. - How do orthodontists track progress?
Through regular checkups, x-rays, and digital scans. - Do braces results last forever?
Yes, if retainers are worn as prescribed after treatment.
Braces Care & Maintenance
- How do I brush with braces?
Use a soft-bristle toothbrush at a 45° angle, clean around brackets and wires, and brush for at least 2 minutes. - Do I need a special toothbrush?
Yes, orthodontic brushes or electric toothbrushes improve cleaning efficiency. - Can I floss with braces?
Yes, but use floss threaders or interdental brushes for easier cleaning. - Do braces cause bad breath?
Not directly. Poor cleaning can cause bad breath due to trapped food. - Do braces cause cavities?
No, but improper cleaning increases risk of cavities. - Can I use mouthwash with braces?
Yes, fluoride mouthwash helps prevent cavities and freshens breath. - How to manage broken brackets or wires?
Cover sharp ends with orthodontic wax and visit your dentist immediately. - Can braces fall off?
Brackets can loosen if you eat hard/sticky foods. Orthodontists can reattach them. - Do I need to visit the dentist more often with braces?
Yes, regular adjustments are essential for progress. - Can I whiten my teeth during braces treatment?
Not recommended. Wait until braces are removed for even whitening.
Food & Eating Habits
- What foods should I avoid with braces?
Sticky, hard, crunchy, and chewy foods (gum, popcorn, caramel, nuts). - Can I eat pizza with braces?
Yes, but avoid hard crusts. Cut slices into smaller bites. - Can I eat chocolate with braces?
Yes, but choose soft chocolate. Avoid sticky caramel-filled ones. - Can I eat ice cream with braces?
Yes, but avoid biting hard chunks. - Can I chew gum with braces?
No, gum can damage wires and brackets. - Can I drink soda with braces?
Occasionally, but it increases risk of cavities and stains. Use a straw. - Can I eat apples with braces?
Yes, but cut them into small pieces. - Can I eat street food with braces?
Yes, but choose softer options and maintain hygiene. - Can I eat meat with braces?
Yes, but avoid bones and chewy cuts. Opt for boneless, soft meat. - Best foods to eat with braces?
Soft fruits, cooked veggies, rice, pasta, yogurt, smoothies, eggs.
Pain & Discomfort
- Do braces hurt when first applied?
Yes, mild soreness is common for 3–7 days. - Do braces hurt during tightening?
Yes, but discomfort usually subsides within 48 hours. - How to relieve braces pain?
Use orthodontic wax, soft foods, and OTC pain relievers. - Do braces cause mouth ulcers?
Yes, wires may irritate gums. Wax helps prevent sores. - Do braces cause headaches?
Occasionally, during initial adjustments. It usually passes quickly. - Is braces pain worse than aligner pain?
Aligners are generally less painful, but both cause mild pressure. - Can I use numbing gels for braces pain?
Yes, gels like benzocaine provide temporary relief. - Do braces hurt while eating?
Yes, especially at the start. Stick to soft foods initially. - Do braces cause jaw pain?
Sometimes, as bite alignment changes. It improves over time. - Will braces pain go away?
Yes, your mouth adjusts after each phase.
Results & Effectiveness
- How effective are braces?
Braces are highly effective for correcting misalignment and bite issues. - Can braces permanently fix teeth?
Yes, with retainers after treatment. - Do braces change face shape?
They can subtly improve facial harmony by correcting jaw alignment. - Can braces fix speech problems?
Yes, braces correct misalignments that cause lisping or improper speech. - Can braces fix jaw problems?
Yes, with or without additional orthodontic appliances. - Do braces improve confidence?
Yes, by creating a straighter, healthier smile. - Can braces correct very crooked teeth?
Yes, braces are ideal for severe crowding cases. - Do braces prevent gum disease?
Indirectly, by aligning teeth for better cleaning access. - Do braces improve chewing?
Yes, correcting bites helps efficient chewing. - Do braces improve digestion?
Yes, since better chewing aids digestion.
After Braces (Post-Treatment)
- What are retainers?
Retainers hold teeth in their new position after braces. - Do I need retainers after braces?
Yes, retainers prevent teeth from shifting back. - How long should I wear retainers?
Usually full-time for 6–12 months, then nightly. - What happens if I skip retainers?
Teeth may relapse, undoing treatment. - Do retainers hurt?
Mild pressure is normal initially. - Are permanent retainers better?
They’re effective for long-term stability but require hygiene care. - How much do retainers cost?
Retainers cost ₹3,000–₹15,000 depending on type. - Can retainers be replaced if lost?
Yes, but a replacement will cost extra. - How do I clean retainers?
Use a soft brush and mild soap. Avoid hot water. - How long do retainers last?
With proper care, 2–5 years or longer.
Special Cases
- Can I get braces with missing teeth?
Yes, braces can close gaps or prepare for implants. - Can I get braces with crowns?
Yes, orthodontists can adapt braces to crowns. - Can I get braces with implants?
Braces won’t move implants, but they can align surrounding teeth. - Can I get braces with gum disease?
Treatment must wait until gum disease is controlled. - Can I get braces during pregnancy?
Yes, but X-rays are avoided. Discuss with your gynecologist. - Can braces fix open bite?
Yes, with braces and elastics or surgery in severe cases. - Can braces fix crossbite?
Yes, braces and expanders can correct crossbites. - Can braces fix protruding teeth?
Yes, braces are commonly used to reduce protrusion. - Can braces close gaps after tooth extraction?
Yes, braces move surrounding teeth to close extraction gaps. - Do braces help TMJ problems?
Sometimes. By correcting bite, braces can reduce TMJ stress.
Conclusion
These 100 FAQs cover everything patients commonly ask about braces — from costs and pain to aftercare and long-term results.
At Sabka Dentist, we’ve treated over 1.6 million patients with braces and aligners across 120+ clinics in India. Whether you’re a teenager, young professional, or adult, our expert orthodontists will guide you with the best treatment plan and affordable EMI options.
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