Metal or ceramic braces require a commitment. They’re designed to gradually change the position of your teeth to close gaps, correct overlaps, or straighten crooked teeth. They can also help improve some bite problems, making it more comfortable for you to chew and speak.
Are you wondering how long your commitment to improving your smile with braces may last? If so, we have the information you need to make a smart decision for your dental health and lifestyle.
How Long Do Braces Take to Work?
You can expect to wear traditional braces for a minimum of 12 months. The treatment process often lasts for 18 months and may go up to 24 months or longer. It depends on the problems you’re trying to correct among other personal factors.
In general, adults tend to wear braces longer than most children and teenagers. They’re often addressing more severe dental issues and may have gone many years without seeking dental care or treatment for their problem.
To determine how long you may need to wear braces, discuss the treatment process with an orthodontist. A trained professional will analyze your unique needs and dental history to determine the most effective course of treatment. They may not give you a definite length of time, but they should have a general expectation of what it will take to correct your issues.
Why Do Braces Take So Long?
To understand why braces take a year or longer to work their magic, think about what they’re trying to accomplish. They’re designed to apply gentle pressure on your teeth in order to close gaps, correct overlaps, or straighten crooked teeth. They can also correct alignment problems with your teeth and/or jaw.
It takes time to correct these problems. The more severe the issue, the longer the process may take.
Braces aren’t an immediate solution to your dental problems. They don’t offer fast results like surgery. They require a lengthy commitment, but you will end up with a beautiful smile that can boost your confidence for years to come.
Are There Faster Alternatives to Traditional Braces?
Invisalign is the most popular alternative to braces today. Instead of wearing metal braces on your teeth for a year or longer, you wear removable trays made from BPA-free plastic. These aligners are more comfortable than braces for most people and allow you to take them out while eating or brushing your teeth.
Invisalign is often a faster process than braces. On average, patients wear the aligners for 12 months. The length of time you may need to wear Invisalign aligners is personal, so you should check with an orthodontist if you want to compare these options.
There are some limitations for Invisalign. The more severe your dental issues, the more likely your orthodontist will recommend traditional braces over clear plastic aligners.
How to Get the Process Started
If you or your child need braces, start by calling us to schedule an appointment with a local orthodontist. You can also start with a cleaning by your dentist. That allows you to ask questions regarding your dental concerns and the effectiveness of braces for your issues. They can refer you to an orthodontist if they agree that braces can help.
To learn more or to get started on your orthodontic treatment, call Hass Family Orthodontics today at 828-464-5300. Or, request an appointment online.