How Long Does It Take to Wear Braces?

On average, it takes about 24 months to complete orthodontic treatment. However, the duration of braces may vary depending on the type of condition and the patient's needs. Some patients require less than 12 months, while others may need up to 3 years of treatment before their teeth reach the desired position. Orthodontics is not a one-size-fits-all solution and each patient's mouth is unique.

Beware of promises from anyone who says they can have a sincere smile in just six months. While some patients may think they just need to close a gap, treatment in less than six months is quite rare. What some patients may not see or know is if their bite is properly aligned, if the airway is wide open, or if the palate is shaped correctly. These are the hidden diseases that can affect oral and systemic health in the long term.

Only a qualified orthodontist like Dr. Razdolsky has the necessary experience to ensure you get the best results. Often, adults spend longer wearing braces compared to children. But as mentioned above, the duration depends on the type of condition and the patient's needs that orthodontists must meet.

Adult teeth do not grow in another set; therefore, they are firmer than baby teeth. For them to be in their correct position, they will require more time and pressure, unlike baby teeth. As a result, adults can wear braces for up to three years. Different types of braces have a different duration of treatment.

The average orthodontic treatment plan ranges from 18 months to three years. It's different for everyone, but anything that goes beyond a four-year treatment plan justifies getting a second, third, and fourth opinion. Because these braces usually take about the same amount of time to realign the jaw as braces to move your teeth, you can expect to wear them longer than without additional jaw alignment devices. In many cases, a child or adolescent receiving braces may encounter resistance from their parents if they want to speed up the time they spend with braces.

In this case, your orthodontist may be able to loosen your braces and refer you to the dentist for any dental problems that may be causing additional pain. The amount of time you need to wear braces depends on your individual circumstances and how misaligned your teeth are. If you have questions about how long braces take into adulthood or about your current corrective care plan, you can always contact Legacy Orthodontics for more information on how to keep your braces clean.