When correcting misaligned teeth, braces normally have to be worn for a certain period of time. The exact length of the treatment is different for each patient, and it can vary significantly based on individual needs as well as unexpected complications that arise during the process. Thus, before committing to orthodontic treatment, it is essential to have a solid grasp on how long braces treatment time in Lake Zurich can potentially be.
Average Treatment Time for Braces
On average, braces are usually worn for about 18 months, or one and a half years. Treatments for more complex orthodontic issues can last 24 months or even longer. Conversely, if only minor corrections need to be made, treatment time may be notably shorter. Essentially, braces may be worn for any amount of time in the range of 1 to 3 years. The patient’s orthodontist can provide a more specific estimate after an examination of the teeth and jaw.
Factors That Impact Orthodontic Time
There are several variables that can affect orthodontic time in Lake Zurich. The following are key factors that the orthodontist will have to consider when putting together a treatment timeline.
- How Crooked the Teeth Are: Having crooked teeth can mean that they’re crowded together or spaced too far apart. It might also mean that a few teeth stick out more than they should. The more severe an orthodontic issue is, the longer orthodontic treatment will be.
- Alignment of the Bite: Braces can also be worn to correct different bite problems, such as overbite, underbite, and cross bite. A treatment meant to fix the bite tends to take longer than one simply meant to straighten the teeth.
- The Type of Braces Used: Clear aligners such as Invisalign are often worn for less time than traditional metal braces, although that is likely because clear aligners are reserved for less severe cases.
- Additional Orthodontic Appliances: Some orthodontic plans involve more than just braces. For example, sometimes rubber bands are attached to braces to realign the jaw. Each orthodontic tool can affect treatment time in various ways.
How Patients Can Avoid Extending Treatment Time
Patient compliance can also dramatically affect the length of orthodontic treatment. If the patient fails to take care of their braces, the treatment may last longer than initially expected. As such, it’s important for patients to follow their orthodontist’s instructions to keep their orthodontic appliances safe. This means staying away from crunchy or sticky foods, brushing and flossing on a regular basis, attending appointments for periodic adjustments, and making an emergency appointment immediately if the braces break.
In summary, braces work very gradually, and treatment time varies for everyone. However, as long as the patient is diligent about protecting their braces and adhering to instructions, they will ultimately attain a healthier, more attractive smile.
About the Practice
At Grand Dental – Lake Zurich, our team of dental experts includes an orthodontist with over 30 years of experience. This means that we are able to offer a wide variety of orthodontic treatments in-house to help our patients overcome their misaligned teeth and bad bites. If you are interested in getting braces for yourself or someone in your family, you can schedule an orthodontic consultation by visiting our website or calling (847) 438-8136.