Braces are one of the most versatile orthodontic systems. They can treat alignment issues ranging from gaps and uneven teeth to jaw malformation.
In general, braces treatment takes about 18 to 24 months to complete, but depending on the extent of your orthodontic needs, you may experience shorter or longer treatment times.
How Braces Work
Traditional braces have four parts: molar bands, archwires, brackets, and elastics. Your orthodontist will cement metal bands to your molars and brackets to the forward-facing tooth surfaces. Next, they will attach an archwire that connects the brackets and molar bands. Finally, they will add tiny elastic bands that hold the archwire in the brackets.
As your orthodontist gradually tightens the archwire throughout treatment, the teeth will move along it and into planned positions. As the teeth shift, the jawbone rebuilds behind them to keep them in their new positions.
Alignment Issues Braces Treat
- Crooked teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Gapped teeth
- Rotated teeth
- Dental bite correction (overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite)
Factors Affecting Braces Treatment Times
The primary factor in determining your treatment time is the status of your smile before you begin. Your age is another factor to consider: younger patients spend less time with braces, though patients of all ages can receive successful treatment. The type of braces you choose also makes a difference. Classic metal braces are often the fastest choice.
Good Candidates for Braces
- Healthy teeth and gums with no untreated decay or gum disease
- Ability to practice excellent oral hygiene
- Willingness to take the treatment process seriously and comply with the orthodontist's instructions
- Ability to wear a retainer indefinitely or as the orthodontist prescribes
The Braces Treatment Process
Step 1: Consultation
During your first appointment, your orthodontist will complete an oral examination and assess your dental bite and malocclusion. They will ensure you have robust oral health before proceeding.
The orthodontist will take physical or digital impressions of your teeth to establish a baseline.
Step 2: Design
Your orthodontist will painstakingly plan your treatment tooth by tooth. They may be able to show you a digital preview of your new smile.
Step 3: Installation
At your next appointment, you will receive your new braces. The orthodontist will carefully install them and provide crucial treatment information, including how to care for your teeth.
Step 4: Adjustments
Every two to four weeks, you will see your orthodontist for an adjustment. To adjust the braces, the doctor tightens the wire to encourage the teeth to move. You may experience mild discomfort after these appointments, but it will pass quickly.
Step 5: Removal
After one to two years, on average, you will be ready to see your improved smile.
Step 6: Retainer
You will need to wear a retainer for at least the first several years after treatment, sometimes indefinitely. Retainer wear as directed is the most essential way to keep your teeth in their new positions, protecting your investment and your oral health.
How to Keep Your Teeth Healthy With Braces
Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene
Patients who do not take good care of their teeth with braces have a higher chance of developing severe tooth decay and gum disease, endangering their future oral health.
Floss Carefully
Floss with a threader and use an interproximal brush to reach food and plaque stuck under and around the brackets and wires.
Change Elastics Often
If your braces have elastics, be sure to change them as directed to maintain the correct tension.
Call Your Orthodontist Immediately With Problems
If you break a wire or lose a bracket, call your orthodontist for an emergency appointment. If the problem goes uncorrected, you may lose valuable treatment time. Use orthodontic wax to cover any broken edges while you wait to see your doctor.
Wear Your Retainer Consistently
Orthodontists emphasize proper retainer wear as part of the treatment process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Braces
What is the right age for braces?
Patients of any age can receive braces, but the ideal age is early adolescence. Every child should see an orthodontist by age seven to pinpoint the need for early treatment.
Do metal braces work faster?
Metal braces are faster than comparable treatments. They are robust and efficient, able to handle nearly any orthodontic issue.