What Factors Determine How Long Braces Have to Be Worn?
If you’re considering braces for yourself or your child, you’ve likely wondered how long the appliance will have to be worn. There is no one-size-fits-all answer; you’ll generally hear “as long as it takes.” The timeline depends on the starting point of the patient’s teeth, the age of the patient, and how well they adhere to their treatment plan. For most individuals, braces are worn between one and two years, though in more complex instances, braces are required for three years.
These days, braces come in all shapes and forms. Traditional metal braces are still as effective as ever, but removable options such as Invisalign are becoming increasingly popular due to their subtle appearance. Your dentist can help you determine which method is best for your individual circumstances.
Top 3 Factors That Determine the Duration of Braces
Once your dentist sets an approximate timeline for your braces, you can do a few things (and avoid doing a few things) to help you stay on track.
Case Complexity
Patients need braces for various reasons, including minor misalignments and slight overcrowding to more complex issues such as overbites, cross bites, and significant spacing problems. Depending on the patient’s baseline condition, the time braces must be worn will fluctuate accordingly.
Patient Age
Younger patients benefit from a shorter average braces-wearing duration. This is because their jaw and teeth are still growing, making them more susceptible to the pressure of metal braces or clear aligners. Once the patient has entered adulthood, their bones are fully developed, and it may take a longer period to shift teeth the same amount.
Treatment Compliance
Adhering to your orthodontist’s treatment plan is the best way to ensure you’re getting the most out of your braces. This means attending all appointments, keeping your teeth clean, and wearing rubber bands and retainers as instructed. Avoiding certain foods, such as sticky fruits, chewy candy, and hard nuts, can help prevent damage to wires and brackets, which can delay the removal of your braces.
Orthodontic Treatment in Westbury, NY
Whether you’re the parent of an adolescent patient or an adult considering braces for the first time, Brush Hollow Orthodontics is excited to help you reach your smile goals. With modern technology advancing, you may be surprised at some of today’s options to achieve a straighter smile! Clear aligners are an effective solution for shifting your teeth into alignment, and traditional metal braces are more comfortable than ever! Give us a call at (516) 518-5507 to schedule a complimentary ortho consult.
