Many people are disappointed to learn that they need braces. What they fail to recognize is how common braces are. In fact, approximately four million Americans are wearing braces at any given time.
Getting braces is a positive development for your smile. The end result is a straight smile that you can be proud of.
Some people wonder how long they will need braces for. Read on to learn how long do braces take to straighten out teeth? Explore the braces process and why getting straight teeth will benefit you.
What Is the Braces Process?
The first step in the braces process is scheduling an appointment with an orthodontist. Here, the orthodontist is going to perform an oral evaluation.
Based on what the orthodontist observes, he or she will recommend a treatment plan. The recommendation may vary from getting braces to waiting for the mouth to further develop. There is a discussion about braces cost and possible payment plans.
If braces are the course of action, the staff takes a mold of the patient’s mouth. After this step is complete, the braces can be produced.
The next step in the process is to attach the braces to the patient’s teeth using dental glue. Wire is then run through the braces to create the appropriate level of tension. Rubber bands place pressure on the teeth and/or jaw.
Braces require routine adjustments to make sure they are working properly. The patient schedules follow-up appointments with the orthodontist for adjustments.
Appointments for adjustments occur every 4 to 6 weeks. The orthodontist needs to ensure that adequate pressure is applied.
The job is not done when braces are removed. At this point, the orthodontist will create retainers for the patient to wear.
These clear retainers are worn for a fixed duration of time. This duration varies depending on the patient’s mouth. The average duration is 12 months but may be longer or shorter.
How Long Do Braces Take to Straighten Teeth?
Like retainers, the answer to this question depends on the patient. Each patient’s mouth is in a different condition. Some patients have teeth that require moderate adjustment, while others need a lot of work.
Braces apply constant and subtle pressure. They work gradually and do not produce the desired results overnight.
On average, braces take 12 to 18 months to work. However, this duration may be longer in some cases.
You may also prolong braces duration by going too long without an adjustment. Remember, the applied pressure needs to be routinely adjusted to achieve the desired results.
Your New Straight Smile Awaits You
Braces are a proven method to achieve a straight and healthy smile. A straight smile also promotes oral health as you can now adequately care for your teeth.
You can expect to wear braces for at least one year. After this, additional time may be necessary for adjustments and retainers. If you enjoyed this article about how long do braces take to straighten teeth, check out our blog for more great content.