If you’ve decided to straighten your teeth with braces, you probably want to know how long you’ll need to have them. After all, they can be tiresome to deal with after enough time has passed. The sooner you can get them off, the better.
Here’s a summary of the things that impact braces treatment time. Read on to learn what shortens or lengthens the treatment process and ways you can make it smoother.
The Crookedness of Your Teeth
Many people get braces because their teeth are crooked, stick out, or are spaced too far apart. It’s important to seek treatment for these issues to avoid cavities, gum disease, and enamel loss.
How long you wear your braces will partly depend on the tooth problems just mentioned. For example, aligning your teeth may involve removing some to make more room in your mouth. The treatment time will likely be longer if something like that is needed.
Your Bite
Your bite — the way your top and bottom teeth align — also affects braces treatment time. If it doesn’t line up the way it should, it’ll likely need to be addressed. However, solving an open bite, deep bite, underbite, or crossbite with braces will take longer than simply fixing misaligned teeth.
Types of Braces
Did you know that there are distinct types of orthodontic treatment? There are usually three kinds: metal braces, clear aligners, and lingual braces.
Metal or “traditional” braces use metal wires and brackets. They’re often recommended for patients with severe cases of dental misalignment. They require that you visit your orthodontist every few years to tighten the wires, which gradually straighten your teeth.
Clear aligners are removable plastic trays changed out as your teeth shift over time. Whether you follow your treatment plan will affect the amount of time you wear them.
Lingual braces are metallic ones glued behind the front of your teeth. They’re just as effective as the other two options, if not more.
Tips for Keeping Up Treatment Speed
Despite the factors above, there are ways you can make your braces treatment progress more quickly. These include:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day (or after eating).
- Flossing once a day.
- Rinsing your teeth with water to remove food debris.
- Visiting your orthodontist for regular adjustments and your dentist for semiannual cleanings.
- Following instructions for appliances like clear aligners, rubber bands, expanders, or headgear.
- Seeing your orthodontist at once if your braces break.
Braces need long-term attention and care to work well. Remember the factors and tips above so your time with them is well worth it!
About the Authors
Drs. Carolyn & Walter McGinn are practicing dentists based in Putnam, CT. They have served the dental needs of Northeastern Connecticut’s “Quiet Corner” for over twenty-five years. To that end, they provide excellent general, restorative, cosmetic, and children’s dentistry. Whether it’s a dental checkup or an advanced treatment like crowns or dental implants, they’ll give their all to help your smile shine. They currently practice at their self-titled clinic and can be reached at their website or by phone at (860)-928-3723.