Have you ever wondered how long it will take to attain that ideal smile? You may be thinking about getting braces or something else to get that straight, healthy smile, and you’re wondering how long the orthodontic process takes. An orthodontists near you can assess your teeth to determine treatment options that fit your needs and help achieve that straight and healthy smile.
Everyone wants to know, “How long is the orthodontics procedure?” Well, let’s dive into it!
What is Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment is a way to correct teeth and jaws that are in the wrong position. This treatment makes your smile more pleasing and improves the bite as well. Orthodontists are the professionals who specialize in this area. They help in correcting oral issues such as crooked teeth, overbites, underbites and more.
Factors that Affect Treatment Time
There are several factors that can determine the duration of orthodontic treatment:
- Type of Treatment: There are different types of braces or other orthodontic appliances, and each has its time of effectiveness. Traditional metal braces-the most common type of braces are faster than some of the other options available, such as clear aligners.
- Age of the Patient: Younger patients, such as children and teenagers, usually see faster results than adults. Their jaws and teeth are still developing and it is therefore easier to move their teeth to the right position. This means adults might take a bit longer.
- The Severity of the Problem: Someone with a very severe dental issue, like multiple crooked teeth or a very serious bite problem, may need more appointment time before achieving that result. At the same time, minor adjustments or simple issues may be easier and faster to correct.
- Treatment Plan: Every person’s orthodontic treatment is different. Your orthodontist will develop a specific plan for you that will include the length of your treatment, according to your circumstances.
Average Duration of Orthodontic Treatment
On average, most orthodontic treatments last between 18 months to 3 years. However, this timeframe can change based on the factors mentioned earlier. Some people may complete their treatment in as little as 6 months, while others may need 4 years or even longer.
Shortest Time Period for Braces
If you’re looking for quick results, that’s possible! The shortest time period for braces is generally around 6 months. This is often achieved with specific types of braces designed for minor corrections. Keep in mind that this is not suitable for everyone. It’s best to talk to your orthodontist about what’s possible for you.
Regular Appointments
During your treatment, you must visit your orthodontist regularly. These visits usually happen every 4 to 8 weeks. At each appointment, the orthodontist will check how your teeth are moving and adjust the braces if needed. These adjustments help make sure your teeth are moving in the right direction.
Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene
Another important part of the orthodontic journey is keeping your teeth clean. With braces, food can get stuck in different places, so it’s essential to brush and floss daily. Your orthodontist will explain how to take care of your teeth while wearing braces to prevent cavities and ensure your smile stays healthy.
Final Stages of Treatment
Once your orthodontist believes that your teeth have moved into the correct position, they will remove your braces (if you had them). You will then receive a retainer. A retainer is a device you wear to keep your teeth in their new position. The length of time you need to wear your retainer varies, but it’s usually a few months to a few years.
In summary, the length of orthodontic treatment can vary significantly based on several factors, including age, the severity of the dental issue, and the type of braces used. On average, the treatment can last from 6 months to 4 years. If you have questions about your treatment plan, the duration of your orthodontic journey, or how long is orthodontics procedure, don’t hesitate to ask your orthodontist.
Get the Perfect Smile You Deserve with Orthodontic Treatment!
At Newmarket Orthodontics, we help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile with expert orthodontic care. Whether you need braces, Invisalign, or other treatments, our experienced team of orthodontists near Aurora provides personalized care to straighten your teeth and improve your bite. We focus on comfort, efficiency, and lasting results, so you can smile with confidence.
Ready to transform your smile? Book a consultation today and take the first step toward a perfect smile!