Braces: How Long Do I Need Them For?

Posted on Dec 29, 2011

Braces: How Long Do I Need Them For?

If you are considering braces and want to know how long treatment will last, we here at HGS Ortho in Richmond or Port Coquitlam want you to know that it depends from patient to patient.

Every case is unique which makes length of time different for everyone. Treatment generally lasts from 1 year to 3 years, but for most average teenagers, treatment will be completed in 2 years.

Here are some things that can affect the length of treatment:

Complexity of the case: If there is a severe dental deformity, this will take longer to treat. Dr. Smith will be able to let you know what is contributing to the complexity of the case and how treatment time will be affected.

Cooperation from the patient: You may not know this, but this mostly determines how long your orthodontic treatment will take. If a patient complies, this will make treatment go smoothly and quickly. If Dr. Smith instructs you to wear things like headgear and other appliances, you must comply and take proper care of these appliances or else your treatment will be delayed.

Growing Patients: If you’re a growing patient, this could affect your treatment. Dr. Smith will make the adjustments necessary for growth, but this makes the end time of your treatment hard to predict. When growth is involved and there needs to be modification to the braces, treatment time is usually longer.

How Old You Are: Adults usually need longer treatment time because of the properties of their bones or a decrease in metabolism when it comes to tissue – this results in slowing down the movement of teeth while being treated by an orthodontist.

Cases With Several Specialists: When different dental cases are involved, treatment time will normally be longer because of communication delays between dentists or doctors.

If braces are for you, our team at HGS Ortho in Richmond or Port Coquitlam will give you the best care possible. Contact us today!