At Sturgill Orthodontics, it’s not unusual for patients with braces to ask us, “Am I almost done now? How much longer?” The truth is that there isn’t a straightforward timeline that works for every patient—but we want to address the timeline of how long you may have to wear your braces.
Determining a Timeline
Generally speaking, you can expect to wear your braces anywhere from 18 to 36 months. This varies on a wide range of individual factors, but in most cases:
- Mild issues with minor crowding and alignment can be resolved in as little as 18-24 months.
- Moderate to severe issues, such as significant misalignment or bite issues, can span 24-36 months.
Some of the variables that will affect the length of your treatment include:
- Age of the Patient: Children and teens often experience faster results due to having more malleable dental structures and tissues. Adults have more bone density and maturity, which can make tooth movement a bit slower by comparison.
- Type of Braces: Clear and metal braces are great for a range of simple to complex issues. Clear aligners are usually for milder cases. For our InBrace Lingual braces, this timeline can shift a bit to anywhere from 6 to 30 months.
An essential part of our job at Sturgill Orthodontics is working with our patients one-on-one to create a custom treatment plan that works specifically for them. This means Dr. Sturgill, Dr. Williams, Dr. Harper, and Dr. Anderson take all of these factors into consideration when creating your treatment plan.
Phases of Treatment
Do you know the different phases of orthodontic treatment? There are technically two main ones, but understanding how they pan out can also give you a better idea of what to expect in terms of duration. Your treatment with braces doesn’t end as soon as your braces are removed.
- Active Treatment:
- Objective: This is the period during which your braces are actively working to move the teeth into their correct positions. Our Sturgill Orthodontics team will periodically adjust your braces throughout this period to tighten wires, change bands, and make sure your braces are functioning properly.
- Duration: This portion of treatment will likely last 18-36 months.
- Retention:
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- Objective: After your braces are removed, we introduce retainers to maintain your new smile. If they aren’t used correctly, teeth can shift back into their old positions, or new issues can develop.
- Duration: The retention phase lasts a lifetime. Most patients only have to wear their retainers at night while they sleep.
Accelerating Your Braces Treatment
Looking to speed up your orthodontic treatment? Here’s how you can potentially shorten the process by following the recommendations from Sturgill Orthodontics and maintaining good habits:
- Follow Instructions: Adhere to our team’s advice on using rubber bands, aligners, and other appliances as directed during active treatment. Missing appointments or not following instructions can delay your progress.
- Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene: Keeping your teeth clean is really important throughout your treatment. Brush and floss regularly to prevent cavities and gum disease, which can interfere with your braces and extend treatment time.
- Use an Electric Toothbrush: An electric toothbrush provides a thorough cleaning, helping to avoid dental issues that could extend your treatment time.
- Avoid Problematic Foods: Steer clear of hard, sticky, or sugary foods that can damage your braces and potentially prolong your treatment. Choosing softer foods can make eating with your braces much easier and are less likely to cause problems.
- Attend All Appointments: Regular visits are essential for monitoring progress and making necessary adjustments. We know things can come up, but make sure to attend all appointments or reschedule them when you can’t make them. Missing too many appointments can lead to delays in your treatment.
- Report Issues Promptly: If you experience problems with your braces, such as loose brackets or wires, contact one of our offices immediately to prevent treatment delays and discomfort.
- Stay Positive and Patient: While you can take steps to expedite your treatment, the duration can vary based on individual factors. Maintaining a positive attitude and staying committed is pivotal for accomplishing the best results with your braces.
Worth the Wait
Braces are always a commitment. They take time, but they also take hard work and compliance on behalf of the patient. This is why it’s so critical to be backed up and supported by an incredible team of professionals, which you will find at our practice! We take so much pride in serving Johnson City, Bristol, and Norton, and can’t wait to meet you soon!