Do Braces Need to Stay on Longer for Adults?
It's true that braces are applicable for children and adults, but the process can be a lot different depending on the wearer's age.
Often, adults who are interested in braces are most concerned about the treatment duration. They wonder how long it'll take to achieve their desired results.
Let’s talk more about the average length of time adults wear braces and the factors that can impact the process.
How Long Do Adults Need to Wear Dental Braces?
In general, braces need to stay on longer for adults compared to children. This is because adult teeth are more resistant to movement due to their maturity.
Braces can take years for adults, depending on the complexity of the case and the length of time since their teeth were initially aligned. Braces typically stay on anywhere from 18 months up to 3 years for adults.
Additionally, certain factors can affect the length of time it takes for braces to do their job, such as age, health, and lifestyle habits. Ultimately, your orthodontist will be able to provide you with a timeline based on your unique situation.
If you’re an adult considering braces, don't let the longer treatment time discourage you—it’ll be worth it in the end! Your orthodontist can help customize a plan that’s right for you and get your teeth looking straighter in no time.
Factors That Can Affect the Duration of Dental Braces for Adults
The duration of dental braces for adults can depend on a variety of factors. Some of the main aspects to consider are treatment goals, bite accuracy, oral hygiene habits, and lifestyle.
- Treatment goals. Treatment goals refer to the complexity of the case and the desired outcome for your smile. Major misalignments will require a longer treatment period, while minor issues normally take a shorter time to fix.
- Bite accuracy. Bite accuracy refers to how well teeth fit together when biting down. Since misaligned teeth don’t come in contact with each other properly, adjustments are necessary to improve their position and function.
- Dental care practices. Oral hygiene habits are important because they help keep your teeth healthy while wearing braces. It’s important that you brush and floss regularly during active treatment to avoid any unnecessary delays or complications with your braces.
- Lifestyle. In some cases, lifestyle adjustments may also be necessary, such as avoiding hard foods, cutting back on sugary drinks and snacks, and not participating in contact sports without a mouthguard.
Taking these factors into account, adults can expect to wear braces anywhere from 12–24 months, depending on the severity of their case. Working with an experienced orthodontist is essential for ensuring that you're getting the best care possible and meeting your treatment goals in a timely manner.
With proper care and guidance from dental professionals, shortening this time frame is possible. Speak with your orthodontist about what you can do to achieve your ideal smile as quickly as possible.
Request Your Complimentary Orthodontic Consultation in Kitchener, ON
Learn more about getting dental braces as an adult. Visit us at Orthodontic Smile Studio in Kitchener, ON, for a free initial consultation. Get in touch with us today to request an appointment and take the first step to a great smile.