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How long do I need braces to align my teeth and close gaps?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

One of my two front teeth sits slightly behind the other, which makes the front look uneven, and I would like both to be aligned and balanced. I have visible gaps between my upper teeth, indicating a medium to large space. I want the gaps closed naturally, not just covered. My lower teeth are small and spaced, and I want to protect them and avoid the need for implants in the future. I want braces that are effective but gentle in appearance, and I prefer ceramic braces because they are tooth-colored and less visible. I want to avoid bonding or filling unless it is truly necessary. Will I need a power chain to help close the gaps? How long will treatment take to align my teeth and close the spaces? And do I need braces?

Kindly help.

Answered by Dr. Akmal Albert Asham Abdelmalek

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Akmal Albert Asham Abdelmalek is a Dental Surgeon skilled in preventive dentistry, oral and maxillofacial care, tooth extractions, root canal therapy, restorative and cosmetic dental procedures, and patient education to promote long-term oral health.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Braces are an excellent choice for you at your age because your teeth and jaw are still developing, making treatment more effective. Ceramic braces are a popular option if you prefer something less noticeable, as they blend with the colour of your teeth. To close the gaps between your teeth, orthodontists usually use a power chain, which is an elastic band made of interconnected rings attached to the braces. This gently pulls the teeth together over time, helping the spaces close naturally without needing fillings or bonding unless necessary.

Treatment typically lasts between one and two years, depending on the size of the gaps, other bite issues, and the rate of tooth movement. Smaller gaps may close within a few months, but aligning all your teeth properly and protecting your lower teeth will take longer. If you prefer an even more discreet option, clear aligners are another choice. These are transparent trays that fit over your teeth and are almost invisible, though they must be worn consistently to be effective.

With regular check-ups, your orthodontist will adjust your braces or provide new sets of aligners to keep everything on track. By the end of treatment, your teeth should appear straighter, more balanced, and healthier, giving you the smile you are hoping for.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At February 25, 2026
Reviewed At February 25, 2026

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Akmal Albert Asham Abdelmalek is a Dental Surgeon skilled in preventive dentistry, oral and maxillofacial care, tooth extractions, root canal therapy, restorative and cosmetic dental procedures, and patient education to promote long-term oral health.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Prep / Recovery Guide

Dental Braces Treatment Prep and Recovery Guide

How it works

Getting braces is a journey with several key stages. Understanding each step can help you prepare and know what to expect for a successful outcome.

1

Braces
Choice

2

Ceramic
Braces

3

Closing
Gaps

4

Treatment
Duration

5

Clear
Aligners

6

Regular
Check-ups

This information is based on general medical guidance. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice; consult a qualified clinician.

Always consult a doctor before taking medication; self-medication carries serious health risks. Take exact prescribed doses, and never start, change, or stop treatment without medical supervision.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Akmal Albert Asham Abdelmalek is a Dental Surgeon skilled in preventive dentistry, oral and maxillofacial care, tooth extractions, root canal therapy, restorative and cosmetic dental procedures, and patient education to promote long-term oral health.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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