Properly aligned teeth are much easier to clean thoroughly with a toothbrush and dental floss, which directly reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease (periodontitis). Furthermore, correcting a bite issue improves chewing function, relieves pressure on the temporomandibular joints (which can reduce chronic headaches), and prevents premature, uneven wear and tear of the teeth.

The duration of active orthodontic treatment is highly individual and depends on the severity of the bite issue and the chosen method of treatment. Typically, the process takes between 12 and 24 months. A key factor influencing both the timeline and the success of the treatment is attending regular check-up appointments and strictly following your orthodontist’s guidance.

Traditional fixed braces consist of brackets (metal or aesthetic/ceramic) permanently bonded to the teeth and wires that the orthodontist adjusts regularly. Clear aligner systems, on the other hand, are a sequence of transparent, removable trays that the patient replaces independently every 1–2 weeks. Aligners are virtually invisible and make eating and daily oral hygiene much easier; however, the choice of method always depends on the specific nature of the bite issue.

The placement of the braces itself is completely painless. For the first few days after the appliance is fitted or after a follow-up appointment (when the forces acting on the teeth are activated), patients may experience mild discomfort, tooth sensitivity when biting, or a feeling of pressure. This is a completely natural reaction of the body to the process of tooth movement, and it subsides on its own within a few days.

Retention is the final, incredibly important stage of any orthodontic treatment. Its purpose is to stabilize the achieved result and prevent the teeth from shifting back to their original positions. A retention appliance (a fixed wire bonded to the back of the teeth or a removable night tray/splint) secures the teeth in their new positions until the surrounding bone tissues have fully regenerated.