Keep in mind that it is possible for an adult to spend a year in braces and a child to spend three. Age is far from the only thing that determines how much time you will need to commit to braces. Here are a few considerations that our Denver-area orthodontist wants you to know about.
Factors That Can Impact Your Braces Timeline
We understand that you want to know how long adult braces will take. However, there is no simple answer to this question. Several factors determine your orthodontic timeline, including:
- Your age: As mentioned above, your age does play a role in the length of your treatment. Younger patients have an advantage because their teeth and jaws are not done growing. It is easier to guide their teeth into the correct positions with braces. Meanwhile, it takes more effort and time to shift adult teeth, though it can be done!
- Your oral health: Issues such as gum disease and cavities must be treated before you can get started with braces. And if they develop during your orthodontic journey, they might slow down your progress. That is why it is important to practice good oral hygiene.
- How crooked your teeth are: Simple cases take less time than complex cases. If you have very minor crowding, you can generally expect to be in braces for less time than someone who has a severe overbite, large gaps between teeth, and similar concerns.
- What type of braces you choose: Most orthodontic treatments work relatively fast. We offer many different types of braces, including traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and Invisalign®. This ensures that we can match you with the option that will correct your unique orthodontic issues in the least amount of time.
- Your compliance during treatment: To finish your treatment as fast as possible, you will want to follow all of the instructions you receive from our office. That means brushing and flossing properly and keeping your regularly scheduled appointments. Depending on your braces, it may also mean watching what you eat and wearing your elastics.
Schedule an Orthodontic Consultation in Cherry Creek
Dr. Robert Rudman can give you the best estimate for your braces timeline. Call 303-331-0222 today to schedule a consultation at Advanced Orthodontic Care. We welcome patients from Denver, Cherry Creek, Stapleton, and nearby areas of Colorado.
