Dental Braces: What They Are, How They Work & Who Needs Them

Braces: What Does the Term Actually Mean?

Braces are an orthodontic appliance fitted by an orthodontist to move your teeth gradually and precisely into their correct positions. The appliance works by applying gentle, continuous pressure through small brackets bonded to the teeth and connected by wires. This pressure slowly moves each tooth through the surrounding alveolar bone — a process clinicians describe as bone remodelling. The end result is aligned teeth, a healthy bite, and an improved smile.

Who Needs Braces? Common Conditions

• Crowding: When there isn't enough space for all the teeth, causing them to overlap or twist in front of or behind one another.
• Malocclusion: When the upper and lower teeth don't meet correctly during biting.
• Crossbite: When lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth.
• Deep overbite: When the upper teeth cover the lower teeth more than they should.
• Open bite: When the front teeth don't meet even when the mouth is fully closed.
• Protruding front teeth: When the upper teeth project further forward than normal.

You don't need to have all of these issues — even one of them may be a sufficient reason to start treatment. Try this quiz to find out whether braces or another option might be right for you.

Types of Braces: Fixed or Clear?

• Fixed braces: Brackets bonded to the teeth and connected by a wire — this is the classic brace. Effective for a wide range of cases.
• Clear aligners: Removable, transparent plastic trays. Suitable for mild to moderate cases and offer more flexibility when eating and cleaning.

Your orthodontist decides which type suits your case after a clinical examination and X-rays — not every case is suitable for clear aligners. Once treatment is complete, your orthodontist will prescribe a retainer to maintain the result.

What Happens During Treatment?

Some pressure and mild discomfort in the first couple of weeks is normal and settles with time. Regular clinic visits — typically every 4–8 weeks — are essential so your orthodontist can adjust the wire or aligner tray in line with how your teeth are moving. During this period:

• Oral hygiene becomes even more important: Plaque builds up easily around brackets, so careful cleaning is essential to avoid tooth decay and gum inflammation. Regular professional cleaning visits during treatment are important.
• Some foods may need to be avoided: Hard or sticky foods can break brackets.
• Treatment length varies: It depends on the complexity of your case and your age — there is no single figure that applies to everyone.

Braces for Children vs. Adults: Is There a Difference?

Braces are not limited to any particular age group. In children and teenagers, the bones are still developing, so teeth tend to respond more quickly. In adults, the bones are more mature, which may extend treatment time slightly — but results can be equally excellent. Orthodontists sometimes recommend starting treatment at a specific age to take advantage of jaw growth; this decision is made after a thorough examination and panoramic X-ray. If you have a child and want to understand their dental development, this chart will help you follow the stages of tooth eruption.

When to See an Orthodontist — and What to Expect at Your First Visit

If you notice any of the following, book an appointment with an orthodontist:

• Visibly crowded or overlapping teeth
• Difficulty biting or chewing
• Persistent mouth breathing in children
• Clicking or pain in the jaw when opening and closing — this may be related to the temporomandibular joint

Important: If you experience severe jaw pain or sudden swelling, see a dentist promptly — do not delay. At your first orthodontic appointment, your doctor will carry out a clinical examination, take X-rays (panoramic or otherwise), and explain the options suited to your case. Book your appointment online or via WhatsApp.