At a glance
- Adjustments take place every few weeks during treatment, on a schedule your orthodontist plans.
- The old ties come off and the wire may be changed or adjusted to keep the teeth moving.
- New ties go on, and you can usually pick new colours.
- We check progress and may add power chains, springs or elastics if your plan needs them.
- Teeth often feel tender for a few days afterwards; soft foods help while they settle.
Inside an adjustment appointment
It is often called “getting your braces tightened”, but an adjustment is really about changing or adjusting the wire and checking progress. In this video, Dr Sarah Sadek shows each step.
Adjustments are also a good chance to ask questions, mention anything that has been rubbing or has broken, and check your cleaning around the brackets.
Your questions answered
How often will my braces be adjusted?
Usually every few weeks, though it depends on your treatment plan. Your orthodontist will book your visits at the right intervals.
Is an adjustment painful?
The appointment itself is not usually painful. Many people feel pressure or tenderness for a few days afterwards, which usually settles.
How long is an adjustment appointment?
Most are fairly short. We will tell you how long to allow when you book.
Save on treatment with an SW3 Dental plan
Student Smile members get 15% off all treatments, including aligners and braces. Smile for Life plan members get 10% off private treatment, including aligners. Both plans also cover your check-ups and hygiene visits.
Student plans from £12.95/month → Practice plans from £14.95/month →
12-month minimum term. Student plans need a valid student card. The SW3 Essentials plan discount does not include aligners; full details and exclusions are in the terms. Student terms · Practice plan terms.
Seeing us in Chelsea
SW3 Dental is on the first floor at 295 King's Road, London SW3 5EP, a short bus ride from Sloane Square and within walking distance of South Kensington station. Call 020 3474 6302 or book online.
In this video
Dr Sarah Sadek
Specialist Orthodontist & Clinical Director
GDC No. 114943 · Chelsea · Waterloo · Croydon