You’ve got a stellar smile. And your kids light up the room. But even those fantastic smiles could be taken to the next level by straightening and correcting common dental issues. And you’re totally on board. But you have one major question… how long do braces take?
How Long Do You Have to Wear Braces?
Some things in life have easy answers: How long should you brush your teeth? Two minutes. How much water should you drink? At least 64 oz a day. Unfortunately, answering “How long do you have to wear braces,” is not quite as easy. While the average is 1-3 years, orthodontia is tailored specifically to each individual person. So the most honest answer is…it depends.
How Long Do Braces Take for Kids?
Children are often in braces for shorter periods of time than adults. But how long do braces last? It all depends on their specific dental problems, including the current positioning of their teeth and jaw, as well as the overall severity of dental issues.
Because your kid’s jaw is still growing and developing, the teeth do tend to reposition more quickly than an adult’s. Nevertheless, the average length of braces treatment for kids tends to be 15-18 months.
How Long Do Braces Take for Adults?
Adults often wear braces longer than children for the simple fact that major misalignments or other pre-existing dental issues (often from childhood) can make treatment a little more intensive. However, adults are usually better at following the dentist’s instructions. (This helps a lot!) The average length of time for grown-ups to wear braces is 2-3 years.
What Factors Can Shorten or Lengthen How Long Do I Have to Wear Braces?
For great orthodontia results, it simply takes time. Your teeth are anchored in your bones and must be safely and gently moved into their new positions. But as you may have guessed, there are many factors that play into how long you’ll have to wear braces. The good news is that some of these factors are even in your control!
Crooked Teeth
Perhaps the most common reason people choose braces for their children is crooked teeth. But just how crooked are those teeth? Is there enough space to straighten the crooked teeth or is there crowding? If the teeth are a little crooked, it won’t take too long. But if it looks more like a crossword puzzle, it’s going to take a little longer. But have no fear, The Super Dentists will get your kids there!
Bite (Over or Under)
Another factor for the length of time you’ll be in braces factors in your bite. That’s how your lower and upper teeth (and jaw) are positioned in relation to each other. And yes, braces are impressive enough they can even correct bites. But again, the length of time it takes just depends on how severe the misaligned bite is.
Lifestyle
Now for the best news…the factors you can control. If you’re looking to shorten the length of time you or your children have to wear braces (and who isn’t?) a few lifestyle choices to take care of your braces will make a HUGE impact.
- Keep it clean. Brush, floss, and use water picks to keep the teeth and gums clean and healthy.
- Keep your appointments. Constantly going to the orthodontist? Keep it up. Staying on a regular schedule means the progress is monitored and can be tightened and adjusted regularly. Missing appointments just means you’ll be wearing braces that much longer.
- Follow instructions. Your dentist will give you specific instructions about what and when to wear additional accessories like mouth guards, appliances, headgear or other things. It’s all for your benefit.
- Diet. A braces-friendly diet can make a big difference in completing your regimen faster. Avoid sugary foods and drinks, popcorn, sticky foods like caramel or taffy, and hard or super crunchy foods like apples, corn on the cob, or pretzels.
Still, have questions? Contact The Super Dentists at (855) GO SUPER and find out why The Super Dentists is the most trusted and most fun experience in dental or orthodontic care in Southern California.
