You've just heard the three words that every teen dreads: “You need braces." Don't worry! Braces aren't nearly as scary as you may think. In fact, braces today come in a variety of styles, materials and colors, making life with braces much easier, more comfortable and even more stylish than in the past.
How long will I have to wear braces?
The amount of time it takes to treat your smile with braces depends on three key factors:
- Early monitoring — A child's first visit to the orthodontist should be between 7-8 years old. This early monitoring allows orthodontists to monitor the growth of the jaw and recommend further orthodontic treatment if it becomes necessary. This way treatment is guided to get the best possible result in the shortest amount of time.
- What needs correction — The amount of treatment needed to correct a problem will determine how long the process takes. Different patients react to treatments differently, so while it may take one patient only 12 months to complete their treatment, it may take another patient 24 months. Treatment times can vary depending on how quickly your body responds and how much work is needed to give you the show-stopping smile you expect.
- YOU! — Your willingness to use and take proper care of the appliances your orthodontist gives you plays a major role in the length of time it takes to complete your treatment. Excessive breakage of braces/wires, poor oral hygiene, missed appointments and not following the doctor's recommendations will unnecessarily add months to your time in treatment. Always remember to take care of your braces and appliances; this truly will help make your treatment shorter.
Braces are a big part of life for many people your age. While braces may have had a bad reputation in the past, today's braces make it easy to look good and feel good. Please contact our practice to schedule your no-charge consultation.
