If you are thinking about getting braces, you likely have some questions about the road ahead. One that often comes up during orthodontic consultations is regarding the timeline for treatment. How long do braces take to straighten teeth? Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to that question. This blog post explores the average treatment time for braces, factors that affect treatment time, and steps you can take to avoid unnecessary delays during your journey to a straighter smile.
Average Treatment Time
On average, braces take 12 – 36 months to finish their job. Admittedly, that is a wide range. During your consultation, your dentist or orthodontist may be able to give you a rough estimate of how long it will take to achieve your new smile.
Factors That Affect Braces Treatment Time
Some factors that can have a bearing on how long you will need braces include:
- The severity of your dental misalignment. Logically, more complex and severe cases take longer to correct than simpler, more straightforward cases.
- The type of treatment you receive. Traditional metal braces often require a longer treatment time than clear aligners.
- Your age. In some cases, treatment for adults takes longer than treatment for children and adolescents. That is because tooth movements and bone remodeling tend to slow down a bit with age.
How to Avoid Unnecessary Delays
While you may not be able to speed up the braces process, you can take steps to avoid unnecessary delays. Here are some tips to that end:
- Stick to a thorough oral hygiene routine. If you develop a cavity or another oral health problem, it might be necessary to temporarily remove your braces so you can receive needed treatment.
- Eat a reasonable diet. Some foods, such as hard and sticky items, could damage your braces and negatively affect their ability to work.
- Attend all recommended appointments. In addition to attending orthodontic appointments, you should also schedule regular cleanings and exams.
- Wear a mouthguard. If you play sports or grind your teeth, you should get a custom mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces against damage.
- Use accessories as directed. You might need rubber bands or other orthodontic accessories to achieve optimum results. Failure to use them as directed could slow down your treatment.
It might seem like braces take a long time to work, but the months should pass quickly. Before you know it, you may be the owner of a straighter, healthier, and more confident smile!
Meet the Practice
The team at Gillis Dental in Needham proudly offers comprehensive oral care for our community. Both traditional braces and clear aligners are available in our office. If you would like to straighten your teeth, we would be happy to answer your questions and get you started with treatment. Contact our office at 781-202-6357.