Are you insecure due to crooked or gapped teeth? Then you’ve probably considered getting braces on more than one occasion. Nowadays, orthodontic treatment is more discreet, comfortable, and convenient than ever before. Plus, your braces treatment time may not be as long as you might think! Keep reading to learn the average and what you can do to speed up the process.
How Long Do Braces Take to Straighten Teeth on Average?
To answer this question, it’s important to determine which type of orthodontic treatment you’re considering. For example, while Invisalign has an average treatment timeline of 12 months, traditional braces can take 18 months or more. From there, additional factors, like the severity of the orthodontic issue, need to be considered. In other words, patients struggling with minor crowding may achieve their smile goals in as little as six months. On the other hand, complex orthodontic issues, like severely rotated teeth, take more time to correct.
Is There Anything You Can Do to Speed Up the Process?
Although you may not be able to speed up the process, there are a few important best practices you should implement to avoid wasting more time and money on treatment. Here are a few:
- If you have clear aligners, wear them for 22 hours each day.
- Clean your braces or aligners both morning and night.
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily.
- Limit your consumption of sugar.
- Avoid unhealthy dental habits, like chewing on ice.
- Prioritize your follow-up appointments with your orthodontist.
- If you have additional oral appliances, like elastics, wear them as instructed.
Why Talking to Your Orthodontist Is Important
At first, hearing there is no guarantee your orthodontist can transform your smile in just a few months can be discouraging. However, it’s crucial to remember that shifting your teeth too quickly can have some serious consequences on your smile, like loose teeth! Therefore, it’s best to be patient. Gradually guiding your teeth into their new and improved positions will ensure that the look and function of your mouth isn’t compromised during the process. During your initial consultation, your orthodontist can provide you with a treatment timeline estimate while also walking you through the importance of each phase. Don’t worry – your beautiful smile will be well worth the wait!
About the Author
Dr. Jessica Cohen’s journey to becoming a board-certified orthodontist began when she graduated with honors from dental school. She earned her Certificate of Orthodontics from the University of Illinois at Chicago and has been helping patients of all ages address misaligned teeth and bite issues ever since! Since each smile is unique, she focuses on creating customized treatment plans that deliver healthy, happy smiles. If you’re interested in learning more about braces or would like to schedule your free exam, don’t hesitate to visit her website or call (224) 427-6800.