Introduction
Did you know that over 4 million people in the United States wear braces, with 25% being adults? (American Association of Orthodontists, 2024). The transformation from crooked, misaligned teeth to a confident, healthy smile is one of the most rewarding dental journeys. Whether you're considering orthodontic treatment for yourself or a family member, understanding what happens before and after dental braces can help set realistic expectations and prepare you for this life-changing experience.
This comprehensive guide from JKKN Dental College and Hospital—a NAAC A Grade institution with 37+ years of excellence in dental education since 1987—provides expert insights into the complete braces transformation process, from initial consultation to final results and beyond. Our experienced orthodontics faculty bring decades of clinical expertise to help you understand what makes orthodontic treatment successful.
What Are Dental Braces and How Do They Work?
Dental braces are orthodontic devices that apply continuous pressure over time to gradually move teeth into proper alignment. They work through the principle of bone remodeling, where constant pressure causes the periodontal ligament to stretch on one side and compress on the other, triggering bone cells to dissolve and rebuild in new positions.
Modern braces consist of several components working together:
Brackets: They are small attachments bonded to teeth that hold the archwire, helping in controlled tooth movement for proper alignment.
Archwire: Metal wire connecting all brackets, providing the force for tooth movement
Ligatures (O-rings): Tiny rubber bands holding the wire to brackets
Bands: Metal rings wrapped around molars for additional anchorage
Elastics: Orthodontic elastics helps in correction of open bite,cross bite,midline correction,aids in space closure and compliments braces and aligners in bringing proper occlusion.
According to research published in the American Journal of Orthodontics (2024), properly applied orthodontic forces move teeth approximately 1mm per month, though individual results vary based on age, bone density, and treatment complexity.
Expert Insight "The key to successful orthodontic outcomes lies in consistent force application and patient compliance with oral hygiene protocols. At JKKN, we emphasize evidence-based treatment planning to achieve predictable, stable results."
— Dr.R.Ramya, MDS, BDS ,Professor & HOD, Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics JKKN Dental College and Hospital
What to Expect Before Getting Braces
Initial Assessment and Diagnosis
Before braces treatment begins, a comprehensive orthodontic evaluation determines the extent of misalignment and creates a personalized treatment roadmap. This typically occurs during adolescence (ages 10-14) when most permanent teeth have erupted, though adult orthodontics has grown by 40% in the past decade (Indian Dental Association, 2024).
Your pre-braces evaluation at JKKN Dental Hospital includes:
Clinical Examination: Assessment of tooth alignment, bite relationship, jaw position, and oral health status to determine the severity of malocclusion
Diagnostic Records: Digital X-rays (panoramic , Lateral & PA cephalogram & Handwrist,CBCT), Extraoral & Intraoral photographs, and Upper & Lower arch impressions for study cast or digital scans
Treatment Planning: After thorough analysis of clinical examination ,diagnostic records ,Problem list will be formulated based on severity of malocclusion in various domains such as skeletal ,dental ,soft tissue and functional abnormality.Customized treatment plan will be devised for individual patients with informed consent.
Health Optimization: Addressing cavities, gum disease, or extractions needed before orthodontic treatment
Pre-Treatment Considerations:
Existing dental work may need modification or replacement
Some cases require tooth extraction to create space (10-20% of patients)
Oral hygiene practices must be established before placement.
After commencement of treatment Orthodontic patients should brush after every meal with an orthodontic toothbrush held at a 45° angle, and use interdental brushes, floss threaders, and fluoride mouthwash daily for complete cleaning. Avoid sticky, hard, or sugary foods and drinks, stay hydrated, and maintain a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, and dairy for strong teeth. Regularly inspect your braces for loose parts and visit your orthodontist for timely check-ups and professional cleaning.
Key Statistics: Research shows that 60-75% of the population has some degree of malocclusion (misalignment), but only about 35% seek orthodontic treatment (Dental Council of India, 2023).
The Braces Journey: During Treatment
Active Treatment Phase
The active braces phase typically lasts 18-36 months, during which teeth gradually shift from their original misaligned positions toward optimal alignment. Most patients begin noticing visible changes within 2-3 months, though complete transformation requires the full treatment duration.
Timeline of Changes During Treatment:
Months 1-3: Initial discomfort, minor tooth soreness after adjustments, early spacing changes
Months 4-8: Noticeable alignment improvements, reduced crowding, straighter smile lines
Months 9-18: Significant transformation visible, bite correction progressing, arch coordination developing
Months 19-36: Fine-tuning tooth positions, perfecting bite relationships, stabilizing results
Monthly review appointments are critical for progress. During these visits, your orthodontist at JKKN:
Evaluates tooth movement progress
Sequential archwire upgradation according to the treatment phase
Replaces elastic ligatures
Addresses any concerns or discomfort
Takes progress photographs
In case of Aligner treatment monthly review appointments ensure the teeth are moving as planned. During each visit, the orthodontist checks fit, progress, and provides the next set of aligners. Any necessary adjustments or refinements are made to maintain treatment accuracy and efficiency.
What Changes Happen After Braces? (Before and After Results)
The Dramatic Transformation
After braces removal, patients typically experience comprehensive improvements in dental alignment, facial aesthetics, oral function, and overall confidence. The contrast between before and after photographs reveals remarkable changes that extend beyond just straighter teeth.
Visible Changes After Braces Treatment:
Dental Alignment: Teeth positioned in proper arch form with ideal spacing and angulation
Bite Correction: Overbites, underbites, crossbites, or open bites corrected to optimal occlusion
Facial Aesthetics: More balanced facial proportions, improved lip support, enhanced smile symmetry
Oral Function: Better chewing efficiency (up to 40% improvement), clearer speech, reduced TMJ strain
Gum Health: Easier cleaning access reduces gingivitis risk by 60% (Journal of Clinical Orthodontics, 2024)
Success Rate Statistics: Studies show that 95% of patients who complete full orthodontic treatment achieve their desired aesthetic and functional outcomes when following retention protocols (American Journal of Orthodontics, 2024).
Expert Insight "The most rewarding aspect of orthodontics is witnessing not just physical transformation but the psychological impact. Patients consistently report increased self-esteem and social confidence after completing treatment."
— Dr. B. Dhanasekar, Professor and Head of Prosthodontics, JKKN Dental College and Hospital
The Retention Phase: Protecting Your Results
Retainers are essential after braces removal to maintain newly achieved alignment while bone and tissues stabilize around repositioned teeth. Without proper retention, teeth can shift back toward original positions—a phenomenon called relapse.
Retention Protocol:
First 6 months: Wear retainers 22 hours daily (removable) or bonded retainers (permanent)
Months 6-12: Gradually reduce to nighttime-only wear
Long-term: Many orthodontists recommend lifelong nighttime wear several times weekly
Types of Braces and Their Results
Different orthodontic systems produce similar end results but vary in treatment experience, duration, and visibility:
Costs vary based on treatment complexity and location (Dental Council of India, 2024)..Also additional charges for Growth modification using Myofunctional appliance and Orthopaedic appliance and also Oral Habit correction appliances will be present based on individual treatment plan.
All orthodontic systems at JKKN Dental Hospital are selected based on patient-specific factors including severity of misalignment, age, lifestyle preferences, and budget considerations.
How to Maintain Results After Braces
Preserving your beautiful new smile requires ongoing commitment:
Essential Maintenance Practices:
Wear Retainers as Prescribed: Non-compliance causes 70% of relapse cases within 5 years
Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily, floss daily, use fluoride rinse
Attend Regular Dental Checkups: Professional cleanings every 6 months
Avoid Harmful Habits: Nail-biting, pen-chewing, tongue-thrusting can shift teeth
Address Grinding/Clenching: Nightguards protect teeth from bruxism-related movement
When to Contact Your Orthodontist:
Retainer feels tight after missing wear sessions (indicates movement)
Retainer breaks or becomes ill-fitting
Teeth appear to be shifting
Discomfort or bite changes develop
Conclusion
The journey of dental braces before and after treatment represents far more than a cosmetic enhancement—it's a transformation that impacts oral health, function, and quality of life. Understanding the complete process from initial evaluation through retention empowers patients to make informed decisions and maintain their beautiful results for decades.
Key Takeaways:
Expect 18-36 months for complete orthodontic transformation
Results include improved alignment, bite function, facial aesthetics, and oral health
Retention is essential for maintaining results permanently
Success requires patient compliance with orthodontist recommendations
Ready to Transform Your Smile?
Schedule a comprehensive orthodontic consultation at JKKN Dental College and Hospital to discuss your personalized treatment options and discover how braces can transform your dental health and confidence.
Contact JKKN Dental Hospital: 📍 Natarajapuram, NH-544, Kumarapalayam (TK), Namakkal (DT), Tamil Nadu 638183 📞 Phone: 93458 55001 📧 Email: dental.jkkn.ac.in 🌐 Website: https://dental.jkkn.ac.in/
About the Authors
Author:
Dr. R. Ramya, MDS, BDS, is Professor & Head of the Department of Orthodontics at JKKN Dental College and Hospital with 13 years of experience in dental braces, dentofacial orthopedics, and malocclusion correction.
Reviewed by:
Dr. B. Dhanasekar, Ph.D, MFDS RCS (Edinburgh), MFDS RCPS (Glasgow), FDS RCS (England), MDTFEd (Edinburgh), MDS, BDS Principal & Professor and Head of Prosthodontics, JKKN Dental College and Hospital With 22 years of clinical excellence, Dr. Dhanasekar's expertise encompasses complex prosthodontic rehabilitation, including post-orthodontic restorative care and interdisciplinary treatment coordination for optimal aesthetic and functional outcomes.
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual orthodontic treatment plans vary based on specific dental conditions, age, and health factors. Consult with a licensed orthodontist or dental professional at JKKN Dental Hospital or your local dental clinic for personalized treatment recommendations and accurate diagnosis.
References and Further Reading
American Association of Orthodontists - Braces Statistics and Facts
Indian Dental Association (IDA) - Orthodontic Treatment Guidelines
Dental Council of India (DCI) - Standards for Orthodontic Practice
American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics - Latest Research on Tooth Movement
World Health Organization (WHO) -Oral Health Fact Sheets