Orthodontics

Braces are fixed to the teeth and apply continuous mechanical force through brackets and wire, which generally makes them more suitable for complex misalignment. Clear aligners are removable custom trays, worn in sequence, and are typically better suited to mild to moderate crowding or spacing. A clinical assessment, not personal preference, determines which is appropriate for a given case.

It varies widely by case. Mild cases treated with aligners may take several months to around a year; more complex cases, especially with fixed braces, can take a year or more. The specific timeline depends on how much movement is needed and how consistently any removable appliance is worn.

Some form of retention is generally needed indefinitely, or at minimum for a substantial period, because teeth tend to drift back toward their original position once active treatment ends. Whether that’s a removable retainer, a fixed lingual retainer, or a combination depends on the case and the dentist’s recommendation.

Orthodontic treatment isn’t limited by age on its own — what matters more is whether the surrounding teeth and gums are healthy enough for tooth movement. Clear aligners in particular are commonly sought out by adults because they’re less visible than fixed braces.

Not entirely. Misaligned teeth can make cleaning harder in certain spots, which raises decay and gum disease risk, and can put uneven stress on teeth or the jaw joint. A dentist’s assessment is what distinguishes a mainly cosmetic case from one with a functional reason to correct it.