Metal Braces, Ceramic Braces, or Aligners in India : Which Is Right for NRIs?
- Anshu Gupta
- 10 hours ago
- 3 min read
Metal Braces, Ceramic Braces, or Aligners in India: Which Is Right for NRIs?
As an NRI planning orthodontic treatment during your trip to India, you might be wondering:
Should I go for metal braces, ceramic braces, or clear aligners like Invisalign?
Each option has its pros, cons, and suitability based on your age, lifestyle, and length of stay in India.
This blog will help you choose the right orthodontic treatment in India by comparing metal braces, ceramic braces, and clear aligners—with a special focus on what works best for NRIs and international patients.
🦷 Overview of Options
🔩 Metal Braces
• Traditional stainless steel brackets and wires
• Highly effective and durable
• Best for: teens, long-term stayers, or budget-conscious patients
🦷 Ceramic Braces
• Tooth-colored or clear brackets
• Less visible than metal
• Best for: professionals who want discreet correction without aligners
😁 Clear Aligners (e.g. Invisalign)
• Custom-made transparent trays
• Removable and nearly invisible
• Best for: NRIs, working adults, or those seeking comfort and flexibility
📊 Comparison Table: Braces vs Aligners in India for NRIs
Feature Metal Braces Ceramic Braces Clear Aligners
Visibility Highly visible Less visible Virtually invisible
Comfort May cause discomfort Slightly better Smooth, very comfortable
Removability No No ✅ Yes
Hygiene & Cleaning Difficult Difficult ✅ Easy
Diet Restrictions Yes Yes ✅ None
Clinic Visits Needed Monthly Monthly ✅ Fewer, remote follow-ups
Best For Teens, locals Professionals in India ✅ NRIs, travelers, working adults
Treatment Duration 12–24 months 12–24 months 6–18 months
Cost in India (2025) ₹45,000 – ₹65,000 ₹70,000 – ₹90,000 ₹1,50,000 – ₹3,50,000
💰 Price Comparison: India vs Abroad
Treatment Type India USA/UK/Canada You Save (approx)
Metal Braces ₹45K – ₹65K ₹2.5L – ₹4L Up to 80%
Ceramic Braces ₹70K – ₹90K ₹3L – ₹5L Up to 75%
Clear Aligners ₹1.5L – ₹3.5L ₹3.5L – ₹6L Up to 60%
🌍 Which Option Is Best for NRIs?
✅ 1. Are you visiting India for a short stay (7–15 days)?
Go with Clear Aligners (Invisalign)
• You can start treatment in 1 week
• Get your aligners shipped to your home country
• Follow-up is done online via WhatsApp or Zoom
✅ 2. Are you staying in India for more than 6–12 months?
Metal or Ceramic Braces can work well
• More affordable
• Easy to maintain with regular checkups
• Ideal for younger NRIs on extended study or work visits
✅ 3. Are you a working professional concerned about aesthetics?
Choose Ceramic Braces or Aligners
• Aligners are completely invisible
• Ceramic braces blend into your teeth and are less noticeable
• Both maintain your professional image
👩⚕️ Expert Tip from Dr. Anshu Gupta
“For NRIs visiting India for a short time, I always recommend starting Invisalign or clear aligners. You can return abroad with your treatment fully planned, and we monitor everything virtually.”
— Dr. Anshu Gupta, MDS (PGIMER Chandigarh),
Invisalign-certified expert with 25+ years of experience,
Over 20,000 smile transformations and 10,000 implants placed.
📍 Advanced Dental Care Center, Chandigarh
🏥 House No. 20, First Floor, Sector 18A, Chandigarh
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +91-9855123234
👨⚕️ Still Confused? Here’s a Quick Recommendation Chart:
Scenario Best Option
Short trip to India ✅ Clear Aligners
Long-term stay (6–12 months) Metal or Ceramic Braces
High aesthetic concern (adults) ✅ Clear Aligners
Younger age or students Metal Braces
Budget-conscious patients Metal Braces
Working professionals Ceramic Braces or Aligners
⭐ Real NRI Experience
“I had two weeks in India. Dr. Anshu took a 3D scan, gave me my first Invisalign trays, and shipped the rest to me in the UK. I send photos monthly and get updates on WhatsApp. Super convenient and professional.”
— Ravina S., London
🧾 Final Thoughts
If you’re an NRI looking for quality orthodontic care in India, your choice depends on how long you’re staying, how visible you want your treatment to be, and how often you can visit the clinic.
For short trips or discreet correction, clear aligners (Invisalign) are ideal. For extended stays or lower budgets, metal or ceramic braces are highly effective and affordable.
Book your orthodontic consultation with Dr. Anshu Gupta today and find the perfect treatment plan—customized to your smile, your schedule, and your lifestyle.