When was the last time you committed to something without knowing all the details? In regards to dental treatment, it’s generally unwise to jump in without knowing what you’re agreeing to, especially for a major treatment like braces. After all, you could be wearing them for a while!
But how long is “a while?” Continue reading to learn how long braces usually take before you see results.
How Long Does It Take Braces to Straighten Teeth?
There’s no easy answer to this question due to different factors at work on your oral health. The duration of braces treatment varies from person to person and depends on several elements.
In general, you might need to wear your braces for 18 to 36 months, with 24 months being the average. So, what determines the difference in these average times?
Complexity of the Issues
It stands to reason that the more complex your dental issues, the more time would be required to solve them. Dentists can sometimes even recommend multiple treatments if a specific issue like a cross-bite must be corrected before straightening your teeth.
The complexity will be determined by your dentist after your initial consultation. They’ll take X-rays of your teeth and jaw to determine the roadmap going forward. They may then offer you a choice on what type of braces you’d like to use.
Type of Braces
There are several types of braces that can all accomplish the goal of straighter teeth. However, most people tend to shy away from traditional metal braces and other metal types in favor of using clear aligners like Invisalign.
Using these allows you to get the same results as traditional metal braces but with a more discreet footprint on your smile. As it implies in its name, Invisalign clear aligners are virtually invisible while you’re wearing them. Additionally, they can be removed to brush and floss your teeth as normal, allowing you to continue your oral care routine without modification.
Following Instructions
Importantly, some of the burden for how long your braces will take to correct your smile will fall on you. Adhering to your dentist’s recommendations for your oral care and lifestyle changes can reduce the time you spend in treatment.
Remember to continue going to your dentist for regular checkups while you’re wearing your braces. If you’re wearing Invisalign, you’ll need to return every four to six weeks to update your trays and get an assessment of your progress.
Braces and clear aligners are a fantastic way to straighten your teeth and avoid further complications with your oral health down the road. If you’re looking to take the plunge, now you know how long you might be wearing them. Use this knowledge to make an informed decision and reach your smile goals.
About the Practice
Dr. Prashantkumar Gajera and Dr. Julyat Gajera are a spirited husband and wife team at Omega Dental of Bedford. Their commitment to excellence drives them to treat every patient like family, getting to know them and truly tailoring their treatment plan. They are dedicated to meeting your needs with effectiveness and affordability. To schedule an Invisalign consultation, call (817) 518-6915 or visit the website to explore other services.