Treatment duration depends on case complexity. Simpler cases may be completed in about 12–15 months, while more complex corrections may take 24–30 months. Your orthodontist will give you an individual estimate during your consultation. Following instructions — wearing rubber bands, attending adjustment appointments — helps keep treatment on schedule.

Sensations vary from person to person. Most patients report mild pressure and soreness for 2–3 days after the initial placement and after each adjustment. Your orthodontist will focus on patient comfort, may suggest suitable pain relief if needed, and can adjust the treatment plan or the force applied if discomfort is persistent.

Yes. There is no upper age limit for orthodontic treatment, provided the gums and supporting bone are healthy. Adults are treated regularly in our practice. Clear aligners and ceramic braces are commonly chosen by adults who prefer a discreet option. Adult treatment can take slightly longer than treatment in teenagers because adult jaw bones are denser.

Clear aligners are custom-made, transparent plastic trays that gradually move teeth into position. They are removable — you take them out to eat, drink, brush and floss. Because they are transparent, they are less noticeable when worn. You change to a new set every 1–2 weeks, and the number of sets depends on the complexity of the case.

Mostly yes, with some modifications. You will need to avoid hard, sticky and chewy foods that can break brackets or bend wires — popcorn, toffee, hard nuts, ice and sticky candies. Cut apples and corn off the cob. With clear aligners, you can eat a normal diet because the trays are removed before eating.

Brushing with braces requires extra attention: brush after every meal using a soft-bristle brush, angling it about 45° at the gumline. Use interdental brushes to clean between brackets and under the wire. Floss daily using a floss threader or orthodontic floss. Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash. Oral hygiene instructions are given during your placement visit.

For traditional braces, adjustment appointments are usually every 4–8 weeks. Each visit takes about 20–30 minutes — the wire is changed, brackets adjusted and progress checked. For clear aligners, you move to a new tray set every 1–2 weeks, with check-up visits every 6–8 weeks. Regular attendance helps keep treatment on schedule.

A retainer is normally advised to help maintain the alignment achieved during treatment. Without one, teeth can gradually shift back toward their original positions. You will usually wear it full-time at first (except while eating), then move to nights only as directed by your orthodontist. Retainers may need to be worn long-term, and replacements are made when they wear out.

An initial orthodontic evaluation is commonly recommended at around 7 years of age, even if treatment is not yet required, so that developing problems can be identified early. Most orthodontic treatment begins between ages 9–14, when baby teeth are being replaced and jaw growth is active. Assessment and treatment can also be carried out in adults at any age.

For mild to moderate cases, clear aligners can be an effective alternative to fixed braces. For more complex cases — severe crowding, large rotations or significant bite corrections — fixed braces may be indicated. During your consultation we assess your case and discuss the options that are suitable for you. With aligners, consistent wear of about 22 hours a day is important for planned tooth movement.

EPFO members can withdraw from their Provident Fund for medical treatment, including orthodontic procedures. You can withdraw up to 6 months’ basic wages and DA or your total employee share with interest, whichever is less. No minimum service period is required for medical withdrawal. A medical certificate needed for your EPFO claim can be provided by the clinic.