“How long will I wear the braces?” It is definitely one of the most frequently asked questions about braces and orthodontic treatment.
Unfortunately, we cannot give you a one-size-fits-all answer. There are many individual factors that affect the duration of braces treatment. However, if you really want some numbers, we’ll say that the average time people wear braces is 16 to 18 months; Most people’s treatment can range from 1 to 2 years. Shorter wear is rare (unless you’re eligible for SPEED braces, which only need to be worn for about 6 months), and sometimes people can get braces for more than 2 years. Adults, even up to 3 years, are more likely than children to need longer braces.
Also keep in mind that you will need to use a fixed or removable retainer after your braces are removed.
Factors Affecting How Long You Need Braces
Some of the important considerations for how long any person should wear braces include:
.Type of bite problem being treated
Severity of the bite problem (including factors such as how much room there is for moving teeth, how much teeth need to move, how much realignment of the jaw is needed)
.Patient’s age and stage of development
Whether structural problems with the jaw or palate have been addressed and their severity
.Type of braces fitted
If there are removable items such as clear aligners or removable tapes, how well the correct usage instructions are followed
What other procedures or orthodontic appliances were used in conjunction with braces (if any) and how well they followed the patient’s instructions for use
How well the braces are taken care of (for example, if your braces are broken or missing because you ate hard candy you shouldn’t eat and you didn’t fix it right away, it can extend the time needed for treatment)
Patient’s oral health (including teeth, gums, and supporting bone)
Patient’s oral hygiene
.Learn How Long to Use Braces
In order for your orthodontist to be able to give you a reliable estimate of how long you will need to wear braces (if that’s actually what treatment is agreed upon), you’ll need to undergo an initial examination. The appointment will include a thorough oral and facial exam to assess what is going on. Usually, some imaging is involved, such as X-rays, photographs, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans, and/or digital impressions. Your orthodontist will also review dental records and discuss your preferences to help determine what type of treatment(s) to use.
