We can express the maximum years for braces in many ways. It could be the number of years for complete treatment. It could be the upper age limit when you are too old to have braces. Since you are never too old to have braces, we’ll discuss the different lengths for treatment and what affects the maximum years for braces.

How Braces Work to Straighten Your Smile

Learning how braces work will increase your understanding of why treatment duration can vary widely. Modern orthodontics combines centuries-old principles of physics, tension, and applied force to make beautiful smiles. Physics? Yep, but don’t worry, we won’t make you do the math!

The process begins with the orthodontist affixing small brackets to your teeth. A small wire, called an archwire, threads through each bracket and is clipped in. As the doctor tightens the wire, it creates tension. The tension creates an applied force that pulls your teeth into alignment.

It is a simple theory that has been in use from as early as 400 to 300 BC. To help maintain tension on the archwire, the doctor places a tiny rubber band around the front of each bracket. The elastics are available in various colors, so you can even add a little pop to your bedazzled grin!

The Maximum Years for Braces Can Vary

The length of time you will need to wear braces depends on several factors. The first is how bad your alignment is at the beginning of treatment. Minor adjustments can be complete in just a few months, while complex adjustments can take several years. The braces’ average time to make corrections ranges from 12 to 18 months. It can take up to 36 months or longer to finalize corrections in some problematic cases, although estimating the maximum years for braces to work is difficult.

Every mouth is different. Some people respond quickly, and their teeth shift into their new positions rapidly, shortening treatment time. Other people adjust more slowly to change, so treatment time may be extended to facilitate the slower movement. Generally, younger patients tend to move quicker, and braces seem to take longer to adjust teeth in older patients.

Different methods can work to shorten your treatment period too.

Different Treatments May Shorten Your Time Wearing Braces

Special tools are available that stimulate your gums to make treatment move quicker. Every orthodontist does not use these acceleration devices. If you would like to discover ways to complete your treatment faster, talk to the doctor and see what recommendations they offer.

Taking Care of Your Braces

Oral hygiene is vitally important while wearing braces. Failure to brush and floss correctly and daily can cause tooth decay and gum disease. These problems may extend your treatment period. Be sure to brush thoroughly twice daily and floss once each day.

When you brush, gently cruise your brush tip around each bracket to remove food that may be hiding. Brackets and wire tend to collect tiny food particles, and it is essential to remove them.

Dealing with Adjustments and Discomfort

If adjustments cause you discomfort, you can discuss a gentler option with the orthodontist. The doctor may adjust your treatment plan to be less aggressive. Unfortunately, that may add additional time to the original treatment plan. Each treatment plan expects a specific amount of tooth movement over time. Using less aggressive adjustments may slow your treatment.

Under regular circumstances, mild discomfort for the first couple of days after an adjustment is normal. Using over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers can ease the discomfort. Oral gels with analgesics can also assist in soothing mild discomfort. If you have severe pain or the OTC remedies don’t work, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the office at Freehold Orthodontics.

Braces Are Not Your Only Option

Braces are no longer the only option if you want a straight smile. You can now select alternative methods that have proven records. There are many different types of braces available that all accomplish the same great results.

Invisalign

Invisalign® was originally developed and marketed to correct minor malocclusion in adults. The overwhelming popularity of this clear tray aligner system has prompted extensive growth over the 23-year lifespan. The SmartTrack® material Invisalign uses a state-of-the-art polymer developed after testing more than 260 different polymers. This simple adjustment in the plastic for the trays has helped the efficiency of Invisalign.

Invisalign is now capable of correcting alignment problems from minor to complex. Align Technology has also introduced Invisalign Teen® and Invisalign First®. These two treatment systems are perfect for younger patients needing orthodontic adjustment.

Self-Ligating Braces

Self-ligating braces use brackets and wires like traditional braces, but the bracket design differs. The clips that lock in the wire keep it secure and tight without elastics. These braces are still metal, but if you don’t want to worry about tiny rubber bands breaking when you chew, they might be an excellent option for you.

Clear Ceramic Braces

Another variation on traditional braces is clear braces. These work like metal braces, but the brackets use clear or tooth-colored ceramic material. With the light color, they blend with your teeth’ natural coloration, creating a much lower profile. The option to use a white wire is available, making them even less visible unless you are talking face-to-face with someone.

Clear braces might be a great option for a self-conscious teen that needs braces and can’t use Invisalign. They provide the reliability of braces with a barely visible look. The option to dress them up with colored elastics is available. Match your school colors, favorite sports team, or homecoming outfit.

Treatment Times Vary for Each Individual

The only sure way to determine how long your braces treatment will take is to have an evaluation with an orthodontist. At Freehold Orthodontics, Dr. Seth Margulies and Dr. Natalie Nebblett are ready to answer all your questions.

Are ready to begin your braces treatment for a straight, beautiful, and healthy smile? Contact Freehold Orthodontics to set up your appointment.