Are you thinking about getting braces? You are probably eager to start enjoying the benefits of a straight, well-aligned smile. But when will that happen? How long does it take for braces to straighten your teeth? There is no one-size-fits-all answer to that question. This blog post touches on some factors that could influence your treatment timeline. It also gives tips to help you avoid unnecessary delays along the way.
Factors that Affect Braces Treatment Time
The average treatment time with braces is 12 – 36 months. Admittedly, that is a large range. Here are some factors that may have a bearing on how long you will have to wear braces:
- The complexity and severity of your dental misalignment. Severe and complex cases typically take much longer to correct than simpler, more straightforward cases.
- Your bite alignment. Braces are not just for straightening the teeth. They can also adjust your upper and lower jaws so all of your teeth can work harmoniously together. Serious bite issues, such as a severe overbite or underbite, can take a significant amount of time to address.
- Your age. Often, the teeth of children and teens move quicker than those of adults.
During your consultation, your orthodontic team will be able to give you a rough estimate of how long your treatment will take.
How Can You Avoid Delays with Braces?
You cannot do much to speed up your orthodontic treatment. However, there are some measures you can take to avoid unnecessary delays:
- Use your gear as directed. You might be instructed to wear elastics (small rubber bands) or other accessories with your braces. Failing to do so may slow down your treatment.
- Protect your braces. You should not eat extremely hard or tough foods. You should also make sure to wear an orthodontic mouthguard when you play sports.
- Maintain a thorough oral hygiene routine. If you develop cavities or gum disease while you have braces, they might need to be temporarily removed so you can undergo appropriate restorative treatment.
- Attend all of your appointments. Try to visit your orthodontic team as often as recommended so you do not fall behind your treatment schedule.
- Visit your general dentist. Throughout your time with braces, you should continue to visit your general dentist every six months for a cleaning and checkup.
Orthodontic treatment requires a significant investment of time. Hopefully, though, the months will pass quickly, and you will soon get to enjoy a straighter, healthier smile!
Meet the Practice
At Family Dental Practice of Newington, we are proud to provide a comprehensive range of oral treatments. Traditional braces and clear aligners are both available in our practice. If you are interested in straightening your teeth, we are ready to answer all of your questions. To book a consultation, contact our office at 860-856-6201.