Braces are an effective teeth straightening method. They can correct crooked teeth, gaps, underbites, and overbites. However, the length of time it takes to complete treatment is often not clear. There are several factors that influence the duration of the procedure. It is important to take the advice of your orthodontist into account.
For young children, orthodontic treatment may take less than a year. This is because their jawbones are still developing. Therefore, it is easier to manipulate their teeth. Adults on the other hand, need to wait until their adult teeth are in place before treatment can be started. Typically, a mild misalignment will be treated in six months, while a major issue will take up to a year.
The length of the procedure also depends on the type of braces used. Traditional metal braces take approximately 18 months to three years to complete. If you are interested in a faster orthodontic procedure, you might want to try lingual or ceramic braces. These can be much more discreet than traditional braces.
Invisalign is another teeth straightening option. It works by using multiple trays to apply pressure to teeth. You will need to wear your aligners for about 22 hours a day in order to get the best results. Compared to traditional metal braces, Invisalign is a far faster way to improve your smile.
Having a proper dental checkup will allow your orthodontist to evaluate your oral health and determine the best course of action. Your dentist may recommend a retainer to help maintain the new position of your teeth. He or she may also perform tooth extractions if necessary. When you meet with your orthodontist, you will be asked about your goals, so he or she can tailor your treatment to your specific needs.
Although the most expensive part of a teeth straightening process is the initial set-up, you should expect to pay less than you would for a dental cleaning or a visit to the dentist. Even after the procedure, you will need to make sure that you keep your teeth clean and in good condition. Also, it is important to avoid chewing on hard foods as they can cause damage to your braces.
Depending on the severity of your misalignment, your orthodontist will estimate how long it will take to finish your treatment. During an initial visit, your orthodontist will discuss the treatment plan, including the amount of time it will take to achieve your desired results.
Your orthodontist will also explain the various ways to care for your new braces. For example, you can use floss, or even OTC pain relievers to alleviate some of the discomfort. But, it is important to remember that it is up to you to follow the orthodontist’s instructions so you can get the most out of your new braces.
While it is true that orthodontic treatment can take a while to get the results you want, it is definitely worth the wait. Not only can braces give you the confidence to speak in public without embarrassment, but they are also a great tool to treat bite issues.
Photo by SHVETS production on Pexels