05/30/2016
Article by Dr. Leaver & Dr. Gardner
No matter their age; when anybody hears that braces are needed for corrective treatments, there are a host of questions and thoughts that follow. With so many options concerning type of braces, and circumstantial factors, one of the first questions asked is, “How long do I have to wear braces?” The answer varies per patient depending on the custom circumstances such as age, type of braces and why you need them.
But do keep in mind, each case differs, we are just giving a general idea!
Age Getting Braces – Age plays a role in how long the general need for braces will be needed. Most candidates are between 10 and 12 years, although in some early intervention cases, children as young as 7 may need the use of braces. It has been proven in studies that treatment is corrected faster in children, where adults needing similar adjustments take longer to complete. Teenagers and adults can expect to wear braces a bit longer than kids. In most cases, the average wear of braces is anywhere 18-24 months, although there are cases where it takes less or more time to complete for the most optimal results. In children under 13 years of age, the average length of time is around 12 months. Teenagers, again depending on the correction needed, can expect to wear braces between 12-24 months on averages. Adults can expect to wear braces for 24 months on average, but again circumstances are a factor.
Types of Braces for Kids, Teenagers & Adults – The type of braces chosen that will still be effective for treatment, plays a definitive factor in the length of time you wear your braces. There are traditional metal braces, Damon Self-Ligating Braces, Damon Clear or ceramic braces, Invisalign or clear plastic tray braces, and lingual braces. Traditional braces are the most obvious approach, but because of their strength and effectiveness, wearing traditional metal braces is usually shortened in comparison to other method of braces. Ceramic braces can extend treatment because though ceramic is a strong force, it isn’t as steady, but they are not as visually noticed as traditional braces. As Invisalign utilize a series of custom fit trays, the length of time they are needed can be considerably longer than traditional braces, but with the freedom to eat, drink and have easier access to your teeth for oral care, along with their near invisible nature; many folks take the trade off. Lingual braces are just like traditional braces, but they are fitted behind the teeth and are custom made to fit each tooth, you can expect to wear them between 1-3 years.
Why do You Need Braces? – The final basic reason for the time you might have to wear braces is of course why you need braces to begin with. Here are some common reasons why you might need braces; crowding, crooked teeth, large gaps between teeth, underbite, overbite, crossbite, misalignment in teeth, and misaligned jaw. Some minor corrections obviously take less time treatment time in braces; the more severe, the more time is generally needed.
Other factors could be how often you make your maintenance appointments, cooperation of your teeth, and if additional treatment after braces, like a retainer, can be beneficial. Few people have had to wear braces as little as six months, where others needed to wear them as long as three years. Each individual is different according the all the factors involved. At Leaver and Gardner Orthodontics, after we thoroughly examine your teeth, and discuss your treatment options for braces, we can project an estimate as to how long you might have to wear braces. Call us today to schedule your appointment!
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