Adults often have to wear braces longer than children do, but that depends on the type of misalignment and underlying dental problems. However, grown-ups are typically better at following dentist’s instructions and usually take two or three years to finish the treatment. Here’s an estimate of how long you’ll need to wear braces.
Treatment timelines
Treatment timelines for braces vary based on several factors, including your age and type of orthodontic problem. Your orthodontist can determine the duration of your treatment after an initial examination. The treatment time can be extended if your teeth need major adjustments, such as moving or shifting. In addition, if your bite needs to be adjusted, treatment time may be extended as well.
Generally, patients should expect to receive braces between eight and 14 years of age. This is based on the American Orthodontic Association’s recommendation for the best treatment time for young children. However, the age of your child will also determine the length of treatment.
Length of treatment
The length of treatment for braces varies from person to person, but most people wear their braces for between one and three years. A professional orthodontist can give you a more accurate estimate of how long you will need to wear braces. During this time, you may have to make a few adjustments to your lifestyle, but your daily life will not be disrupted. However, you will need to adjust your diet, as braces can cause your teeth to become more sensitive. In these cases, it is best to stay away from hard, sticky or brittle foods.
Modern braces have advanced technology that makes them easier to wear, and they also provide good results. They use self-ligating brackets and high-tech alloy wire systems to make them comfortable. This leads to a faster, more efficient treatment. They are also smaller, and can be made from tooth-colored materials. For mild crowding or spacing, your treatment may take anywhere from four to six months, but for severe crowding, you might need to wait a bit longer.
Cost of treatment
There are many options for ensuring that your orthodontic care is covered by your medical or dental insurance. Most policies cover basic metal braces but may not cover more expensive ones. If you don’t have dental insurance, you may be able to get some coverage through your health savings account or flexible spending account. You can also check to see if Medicaid covers orthodontic care.
Clear aligners may be the cheapest option for your orthodontic care. Clear aligners require less time in the orthodontist’s chair and usually align teeth within six months. Some companies also offer virtual check-ins with the orthodontist, which can save you a lot of money. This is a great option for people who want a quick fix but don’t need the complete look of metal braces.
Options for adults wearing braces
For adult patients that have dental issues that affect their teeth and gums, there are many options for adult braces. These types of braces work to align the teeth and correct common issues, such as uneven bite and gaps between the teeth. They can also improve the aesthetics of the teeth and gums.
There are two main types of adult braces. The first type, conventional braces, has been around for decades and uses a metal band around each tooth. The latest version uses wires to move teeth into position. Both types have their pros and cons. The traditional option has the most visible results.
Another type of orthodontic treatment is Invisalign. This option is more expensive, but it works to correct the appearance of teeth and jaws. Adults wearing this type of braces will need to wear a new set of aligners every two weeks. These aligners will require you to brush your teeth after eating and floss. They may also cause some embarrassment when you’re out with friends. Regardless of the option, you can expect the results to last anywhere from one to three years.
