Teeth Alignment
Braces, clear aligners or Invisalign planned to bring your teeth into perfect alignment.
What is it?
Teeth alignment (orthodontics) gradually moves crooked, crowded or gapped teeth into better positions. Options include traditional metal braces, tooth-coloured ceramic braces, and clear removable aligners. Straight teeth are easier to clean and improve your bite. We plan your treatment so the final result also complements your face and smile.
Do you need it?
You may benefit if you notice:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Upper teeth that stick out or deep bite
- Teeth that have moved over time or after earlier braces
- Difficulty in cleaning between crooked teeth
Step by step
What happens during treatment
- 1
Consultation and records
Examination, photos, X-rays and scans of your teeth.
- 2
Treatment plan
We show you the expected movement, the options and the estimated duration.
- 3
Fitting
Braces are bonded to the teeth, or your first set of aligners is given.
- 4
Regular reviews
Visits every 4–8 weeks to adjust braces or move to new aligners.
- 5
Retention
Retainers hold your teeth in their new positions after treatment.
Visits
Every 4-8 weeks
Duration
Usually 12-24 months in total
Comfort
Mild discomfort
Teeth may feel sore for 2–3 days after each adjustment or new aligner. Simple painkillers and soft food help.
In detail
Invisalign and clear aligners
Invisalign and other clear aligners are thin, removable trays that move your teeth a little at a time. Each set is made for your teeth from a scan, and you wear it for two to three weeks before moving to the next. Because the aligners are transparent and fit closely, most people will not notice you are wearing them.
We offer both Invisalign and other clear aligners, and we help you choose the one that suits your teeth. Before you start, your orthodontist prepares a 3D plan of your treatment, so you can see how your teeth are expected to move and roughly how long it will take. Small tooth-coloured bumps called attachments may be bonded to some teeth to help the aligners grip; they are removed at the end of treatment.
Is Invisalign right for you?
Invisalign and other clear aligners can treat many common problems, including crowded teeth, gaps, an overbite or underbite, a crossbite, and teeth that have moved after earlier braces. They suit adults and teenagers, as long as the gums are healthy. Some complex cases, such as large bite corrections, are better treated with braces or a combination of both. We tell you what is possible after examining your teeth and taking records.
Invisalign, clear aligners or braces?
Aligners are nearly invisible, and you take them out to eat, brush and floss, so there are no food restrictions and cleaning is easier. They only work while you wear them, though, so they need to be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day.
Braces are fixed to the teeth, so they work all the time without you having to remember them, and they can manage some complex tooth movements more predictably. Tooth-coloured ceramic braces are less noticeable than metal ones.
Many cases can be treated either way. At your consultation, the orthodontist explains which options suit your teeth and what each one involves.
What wearing aligners is like
You take the aligners out only to eat, to drink anything other than plain water, and to brush; brush your teeth before putting them back so food is not trapped against your teeth. Each new set feels tight for a day or two, which shows it is working, and some people speak with a slight lisp for the first few days. Review visits every 4 to 8 weeks check your progress and give you your next aligners.
Aftercare
- Brush carefully around brackets after every meal
- Avoid hard, sticky and chewy food with braces. Make sure to remove your aligners before eating anything
- Wear the aligners for 20-22 hours a day, removing them only to eat and brush
- Wear your retainer exactly as advised, because teeth tend to move back without it
Questions
Your specialist
Orthodontist
Dr. Janardhanam P
MDS - Orthodontics
Dr. Jana completed his undergraduate training from Government Dental College, Chennai and went on to pursue his mastesr in Orthodontics from the same college. He is one of the founding members of the madras orthodontic society and has been our visiting consultant for the past 30 years.
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Orthodontist
Dr. Abhishek J
MDS - Orthodontics
Dr. Abhishek completed his undergraduate training from Meenakshi Dental College, Chennai and following in his father’s footsteps went on to pursue a masters in orthodontics at SRM Dental College, Chennai He is a member of the Indian orthodontic society and Madras orthodontic society.
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