Many people dread the moment when their orthodontist recommends braces; whether it’s from not feeling confident in your smile with braces or from the discomfort of having a mouth full of wires and brackets, most individuals cannot wait to get their braces off! While many ask when they will get their braces off, the answer is not the same for every patient. The time that it takes to move your teeth into their new perfect position varies with each unique smile. Let’s take a closer look at how braces actually move your teeth and when braces typically start showing results!
How Long Do I Have to Wear Braces?
Every patient is different and the time length that you have to wear your braces can vary from person to person. On average, patients will have their braces between 18 to 24 months. Individuals who need more extensive treatment may have to wear their braces up to 36 months. Following your orthodontist’s advice and maintaining healthy oral hygiene while wearing braces is the best way to contribute to the effectiveness of your treatment plan.
Why Do Braces Take This Long to Work?
Although the process may take longer than you would like, it requires patience as teeth shift gradually. Because braces are moving teeth that are attached to bone, the process cannot be rushed without causing significant consequences.
Teeth that are moved too fast do not give the supporting bone adequate time to grow, often resulting in pain and discomfort. On the other hand, teeth that are moved at an abnormally slow pace can result in root resorption. Root resorption is a dental issue where the root of your tooth becomes extremely short, usually leading to irreparable tooth and gum damage. To keep the orthodontic process moving along as closely to schedule as possible, following your orthodontist’s instructions regarding oral hygiene and appliance maintenance are vital.
How Do Braces Actually Move Your Teeth?
Once your braces have been placed on your teeth, they will begin to put pressure on your teeth. When pressure is applied to teeth, the bone and connective tissue around them responds by remodeling and adapting to the new tooth position. Over the course of your treatment, the shape of your jaw gradually adapts to conform to this pressure. Constant pressure and the guided adjustments of your orthodontist will work together to produce a beautifully straight smile by the end of treatment.
Your Best Smile is Waiting for You at Hodge Orthodontics
Our team at Hodge Orthodontics is here to provide you with friendly, compassionate and professional orthodontic care and to help get you the smile of your dreams. Our orthodontists will help you to pick which treatment plan will work best for your smile and answer any questions that you may have. Whether you’re a new orthodontic patient, about to have your braces taken off, or anywhere in between, the Hodge Orthodontics team is here to help support you in your journey! Give us a call or visit our office to schedule your initial or follow-up appointment today!