While braces can be done at almost any age, the ideal time for an orthodontic evaluation is around age 7 — when baby teeth are still present and the jaw is developing. Early evaluation allows us to intercept developing problems. Most orthodontic treatment begins between ages 9-14 when permanent teeth have erupted. Adults can get braces at any age — there’s no upper age limit for orthodontic treatment.

Clear aligners are highly effective for mild to moderate cases — crowding, spacing, mild bite issues, and relapse correction. For complex cases (severe crowding, significant bite corrections, tooth rotation), traditional braces may be more effective. At your consultation, Dr. Jagveer will assess your case and recommend the most effective option. Aligners work best when worn 20-22 hours per day as prescribed.

Treatment duration depends on complexity: mild cases may take 6-10 months, moderate cases take 12-18 months, and complex cases take 18-24+ months. Factors affecting duration include severity of misalignment, age (teeth move faster in younger patients), patient compliance (wearing aligners/rubber bands as prescribed), and biological response. Dr. Jagveer will give you an estimated timeline at your consultation.

Braces themselves don’t hurt, but you may experience mild soreness for 1-3 days after adjustments — when wires are tightened or changed. This is normal and manageable with soft foods and over-the-counter pain relievers. The soreness means your teeth are moving! After the first few days, discomfort subsides and you’ll barely notice your braces. Clear aligners typically cause less soreness than traditional braces.

Absolutely! There’s no age limit for orthodontic treatment. In fact, one in four orthodontic patients today is an adult. As long as your gums and teeth are healthy, you can get braces or aligners at any age. Adult treatment may take slightly longer than teen treatment (as bones are fully formed), but the results are equally transformative. Clear aligners and ceramic braces are popular adult choices for their discreet appearance.

Cost varies by type: metal braces are most affordable, ceramic braces are moderate, and clear aligners are premium. We offer three pricing tiers with EMI options for treatments above ₹10,000. CGHS/ECHS/ESI accepted for medically necessary orthodontics. Your first consultation is free — we’ll provide a transparent cost estimate. Visit our pricing page for details.

For traditional braces: adjustments every 4-6 weeks — we change wires, replace elastics, and monitor progress. Each visit takes 15-30 minutes. For clear aligners: you change aligner trays every 1-2 weeks at home, with check-up visits every 6-8 weeks. Missing adjustment appointments can extend treatment time, so it’s important to keep your scheduled visits.

Yes — retainers are essential after all orthodontic treatment. Without a retainer, teeth naturally drift back toward their original positions. Typically, you’ll wear a retainer full-time for 6 months, then night-time only indefinitely. There are fixed (bonded) and removable retainer options. Retainers are included in your treatment plan and are the key to maintaining your beautiful smile for life.

With braces, you’ll need to avoid hard foods (nuts, ice, hard candy), sticky foods (chewing gum, caramel), and foods you bite into (apples, corn on the cob — cut these instead). Clear aligners have no diet restrictions because you remove them while eating. After braces are removed, you can return to eating everything normally. We provide a comprehensive diet guide at your appliance fitting.

Orthodontic coverage varies by insurance and scheme. CGHS/ECHS/ESI/UP Police may cover orthodontic treatment when it’s medically necessary (bite problems affecting function, severe crowding causing dental issues). Cosmetic orthodontics (for appearance only) is typically not covered. We’ll help you understand your coverage during your free consultation and assist with all documentation for insurance claims.