How Long Do You Need Orthodontics For?

Introduction

The blog post “How Long Do You Need Orthodontics For?” by Smiles by Pocock delves into the factors influencing the duration of orthodontic treatment. It explains that the length of time required for braces typically depends on the type of braces used and how well patients maintain their oral hygiene during treatment. On average, braces are worn for about two years, although this can extend or shorten depending on various factors. The article outlines various types of braces available, including metal, ceramic, self-ligating, lingual, and clear aligners like Invisalign, each with its own benefits and treatment timelines.

What are the benefits of having orthodontics?

Orthodontic treatment offers a lot of different benefits, extending beyond the commonly thought of aesthetic improvements. Here are some key advantages to orthodontic treatment:

Improved Oral Health

Easier Cleaning: Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss effectively, reducing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues.

Reduced Risk of Tooth Wear: Properly aligned teeth distribute biting forces evenly, minimizing abnormal wear and tear on teeth.

Enhanced Functionality

Better Bite Alignment: Orthodontics can correct malocclusions (misaligned bites), which can improve chewing efficiency and reduce the risk of jaw problems.

Speech Improvement: Correcting misaligned teeth and jaws can also enhance speech by addressing issues like lisps or other speech impediments.

Aesthetic Improvements

Boosted Self-Esteem: A straighter smile can significantly enhance a person’s self-confidence and willingness to smile.

Facial Symmetry: Orthodontics can contribute to better facial symmetry by aligning the jaws and teeth properly.

Prevention of Future Problems

Prevention of Dental Trauma: Protruding teeth are more susceptible to injury; correcting their position can mitigate this risk.

Long-Term Oral Health: Addressing alignment issues early on can prevent more severe dental problems in the future, potentially saving on costly treatments.

Enhanced Comfort

Relief from Jaw Pain: Correcting bite and alignment issues can alleviate jaw pain and headaches associated with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

Comfort in Daily Activities: Proper alignment can make daily activities such as eating, speaking, and even sleeping more comfortable.

Overall, orthodontic treatment not only contributes to a beautiful and confident smile but also plays a crucial role in maintaining long-term oral health and overall well-being.

How do you know if you need orthodontics?

Here are a few of the main indicators that you may need orthodontic treatmetn:

• Crooked or crowded teeth
• Difficulty of flossing or brushing
• Difficulty pronouncing certain sounds
• Jaws that click when you chew
• Stress/tiredness on jawline after chewing food
• Biting your tongue a lot
• Teeth that do not close over each other when your mouth is resting

What type of orthodontic treatment is available?

Thanks to advances in orthodontic technology, there is a variety of treatment options available to patients. Here are a few of the most common:

Metal braces

Metal braces are most popular among the young. Metal braces work by applying the braces to the teeth connecting them by a wire. Using elastic ties, the wire is tied to the braces. There are also a plethora of colors to choose from too. 

Ceramic braces

Ceramic braces are braces that are clear and have the same color as your teeth. They are the same as metal braces but are less noticeable and more discreet. 

Self-ligating braces

Self-ligating braces are similar to metal and ceramic braces. They can be made of metal or clear/ceramic material. The teeth are also moved with braces and a wire. Self-ligating braces differ from metal or ceramic braces in that the wire is held in place by clips or doors instead of elastic rubber ties.

Lingual braces

A lingual brace behind the teeth is the least common and most specialized orthodontic system on the market. They require different orthodontic skills that few orthodontists hone. It is up to the orthodontist to learn how to use lingual braces behind the teeth since they are not taught in orthodontic training.

Clear aligners (such as Invisalign)

Invisalign is a popular method to straighten teeth today. Some benefits include: 

• Clear/Transparent
• Removable for brushing, flossing and eating 
• Faster than braces (in some cases)
• Require less appointments in some cases

Conclusion: How long do you need orthodontics for?

The answer to how long you need orthodontic braces for will depend on your unique situation. The average and typical time for braces is roughly 2 years.

Contact Smiles by Pocock in North Vancouver today for more information on orthodontic treatment.