How braces work
Braces have two main parts: small brackets bonded to the teeth, and a thin wire that runs through them. The wire applies gentle, steady pressure, and over time the bone around each tooth remodels so the tooth can move into a new position.
Because the movement is gradual, treatment takes time — but it also means braces can manage a wide range of alignment and bite concerns.
What braces can help with
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Teeth that stick out or are rotated
- Overbite, underbite, crossbite and open bite
- Teeth that have shifted after earlier treatment
Metal or ceramic?
Both types move teeth in the same way. Metal braces are very durable and are a practical choice for most people. Ceramic braces use tooth-coloured brackets, so they are much less noticeable — many adults and college students prefer them for that reason.
Ceramic brackets need a little more care with strongly coloured foods and drinks, as the small elastic ties can stain. Dr. Supriya will help you weigh appearance, comfort and your treatment needs.
What treatment looks like
- Consultation — we examine your teeth and bite and listen to what you’d like to change.
- Planning — we explain your options, the likely timeline and the costs before you decide.
- Fitting — braces are placed in a single, unhurried appointment.
- Adjustments — regular visits to guide progress.
- Retention — once teeth are in position, retainers help keep them there.
How long does it take?
Every smile is different. Many braces treatments take somewhere between one and two years, though simpler cases can be shorter and more complex ones longer. You’ll receive an estimate specific to you after your consultation.
Living with braces
It’s normal to feel some tenderness for a few days after braces are fitted or adjusted. Soft foods help during this time. Brushing carefully around the brackets, cleaning between teeth, and avoiding very hard or sticky foods keep treatment on track.
Treatment suitability is determined after an in-person dental consultation. This page is general information, not a diagnosis or a guarantee of results.