Understanding Braces / Invisalign Installation
Braces and Invisalign are dental treatments used to straighten teeth and correct the way your upper and lower teeth fit together. You would visit a dentist or orthodontist to have them fitted if your teeth are crooked, crowded, or not aligned properly. The goal of the treatment is to give you a healthier, more comfortable bite and a smile you feel confident about.
Common Symptoms / Concerns for Braces / Invisalign Installation
When to Seek Professional Care
Book an evaluation with a healthcare provider immediately if you experience or present with:
- A wire from your braces is poking into your cheek, gum, or tongue and causing pain or bleeding
- A bracket or band has come loose or fallen off your tooth
- Severe pain that does not go away after 3 days of wearing new or adjusted braces
- Swelling or infection around your gums or the area where braces are fitted
- You have lost or broken an Invisalign aligner and your teeth are shifting
- You notice a bad smell or taste coming from around your braces that does not go away with brushing
- Your teeth feel very loose or you notice unusual movement that was not there before
What to Expect During Your Medical Consultation
At your appointment, the dentist or orthodontist will carefully look at your teeth, jaw, and bite to understand what kind of treatment is right for you — this is nothing to worry about and is completely painless. They may take photographs, X-rays, or a mould (impression) of your teeth so they can plan your treatment properly. Once everything is ready, they will fit your braces by attaching small brackets to your teeth and threading a wire through them, or hand you your first set of Invisalign aligners with clear instructions on how to wear them.
Medical Divisions Vetted for Braces / Invisalign Installation
Our platform supports multiple clinical specialties capable of providing consultations for this visit type:
Teeth Straightening Doctor
Clinicians available for braces / invisalign installation consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does braces or Invisalign treatment take?
Treatment time depends on how much your teeth need to move, but most people wear braces or Invisalign for between 12 and 24 months. Some cases with minor corrections can be completed in as little as 6 months. Your orthodontist will give you a clearer estimate after examining your teeth at your first appointment.
Do braces hurt when they are first put on?
It is normal to feel some soreness or pressure for a few days after braces are first fitted or after each adjustment. This discomfort is usually mild and can be eased with over-the-counter pain relief like paracetamol. The feeling typically settles down within 3 to 5 days as your mouth gets used to the braces.
What is the difference between braces and Invisalign?
Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires that are fixed to your teeth and adjusted by your orthodontist throughout treatment. Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable plastic trays (called aligners) that you swap out every one to two weeks as your teeth gradually move. Braces are often better for more complex cases, while Invisalign is popular because the trays are nearly invisible and can be taken out when eating or brushing.
How do I take care of my teeth while wearing braces or Invisalign?
With braces, it is important to brush carefully around each bracket after every meal and to use floss or an interdental brush to clean between your teeth. Avoid hard, sticky, or sugary foods that can damage the brackets or cause tooth decay. If you have Invisalign, remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water, and always brush your teeth before putting them back in.
How much do braces or Invisalign cost in West Africa, and where can I get them?
The cost of braces and Invisalign varies depending on the clinic, the type of treatment, and how long you need to wear them — but orthodontic treatment is available in major cities across Ghana and West Africa, including Accra, Lagos, and Abidjan. Traditional metal braces are generally the most affordable option, while Invisalign tends to cost more. It is worth calling a few dental clinics in your area to compare prices, and some clinics offer payment plans to help spread the cost.
Schedule Consultations
Get connected with local doctors. Instantly schedule appointments for Braces / Invisalign Installation on our HIPAA-compliant, telehealth-enabled platform.
Our guides are reviewed by internal medical advisory boards to uphold patient guidelines and reference certified therapies.
Your doctor is only an appointment away.
Feeling unwell? Our friendly healthcare professionals are here to listen, advise, and care for you. Just open the app for quick, expert help. No stress, no fuss.
