How Long Does Teeth Straightening Usually Take?

There are many teeth straightening options available that can help enhance your appearance. Besides traditional braces, you can choose from ceramic braces, clear aligners, and lingual braces. All these treatment options provide effective ways to straighten your teeth. But not all of them may be suitable for your smile. Read on to learn more about teeth straightening with traditional braces.

Teeth straightening with braces

Traditional braces are very effective at treating extreme overcrowding. This teeth straightening option gives a provider the control needed to move the teeth in tiny increments at a time. Braces often consist of many parts. These include brackets, an archwire, ligature elastic, and bonding material. These units work together to put pressure on the teeth in a particular direction. Over time, the teeth will shift into their correct position.

Treatment time

The time required for braces varies from individual to individual depending on a myriad of factors. These include the severity of the issue, the distance the teeth must move, and the amount of room available. Other factors include the health of the teeth, supporting bone, and gums, and how closely the individual follows instructions. But on average, many people often wear them for one to three years. After braces are removed, many patients have to wear a retainer. It may have to be worn all the time usually for the first six months and then only while sleeping for many years.

A person has to see the provider regularly during treatment. During the appointments, a professional will ensure the braces are putting steady pressure on the teeth. Making adjustments in the wires, rubber bands, or springs of the braces will help to create more tension and pressure on the teeth. Sometimes, braces on their own may not be able to shift the jaw or straighten teeth. In such cases, an external appliance, like headgear, may be recommended.

Oral care

Good dental or oral care is important especially with braces. Brushing after meals is recommended to prevent any food from becoming lodged in between braces and the teeth. A provider may suggest using floss that can easily navigate around the braces. It should be able to reach areas that are difficult to clean.

An interdental toothbrush can also help. It can efficiently clean around and underneath archwires and brackets. Seeing the provider regularly is vital to allow for any adjustments to the braces to be made. During these appointments, patients should ask any questions they have. Patients should also avoid chewy foods like caramels and very crunchy or hard foods that could damage the braces.

Ask your dentist about braces

Braces work by applying constant pressure on teeth over a period of time and slowly moving them in a particular direction. The length of treatment usually varies depending on many factors. While you have braces, you will need to care for them and schedule regular appointments. Your provider will check to ensure that you are maintaining your oral health and the braces are in good shape. If you are curious about getting dental braces or have any questions about teeth straightening, speak to your dentist.

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