Putting braces on doesn’t have to be hard or take forever. There are steps you can take to make the process as easy and efficient as possible, from choosing which type of braces will work best for you to scheduling your appointment at the orthodontist to going over your care plan and finally getting your braces on! If you want to get them on sooner rather than later, here’s how long it takes to put braces on and tips to make the process easier.
What does a typical appointment look like?
First, you’ll have a consultation with your orthodontist. He or she will look at your teeth, take x-rays and take photos of your smile in order to determine if braces are right for you. If they decide that you’re a good candidate for braces, he or she will talk to you about why it’s important to wear them regularly and make sure that every question is answered before moving forward. You’ll also be given an estimate on how long it will take to put braces on. Sometimes that time includes an immediate fitting appointment followed by regular checkups until they can be permanently affixed.
Other times, you might have a longer period of preparation where your teeth are fitted and adjusted periodically using removable appliances (like retainers) before permanent braces can be attached. Either way, brace wearers typically go through three phases: 1) fitting; 2) adjustment; 3) stabilization. These stages last anywhere from one to two years each. How long does it take to put braces on?: The answer depends on several factors including whether or not you already have straight teeth, which kind of brace will be used (fixed vs removable), what type of adjustments need to be made and whether or not it's your first set of braces or if you're going back for another round because your tooth alignment wasn't perfect after removal.
What about treatment time?
Treatment time varies from patient to patient. But based on a 2012 survey of orthodontists and dentists, we’ve calculated an average treatment time for each type of orthodontic procedure that can help you plan your treatment with your doctor. Before making any decisions, talk to your dentist or orthodontist about how long you should expect to wear braces. They can also answer questions specific to your personal case and treatment plans based on the condition of your teeth and jaw. In addition, consider talking with someone who has had braces themselves—an older sibling or adult friend—who may have some insight into their own treatment length as well as tips for how to handle each phase of putting braces on.
What is involved in getting my braces put on?
Getting braces is a big decision and a big deal. Once you’ve made that decision, you have to choose between Invisalign or traditional metal brackets and wires. Then, it’s time to get your teeth prepared for those braces. There are many steps involved in putting braces on and they will differ depending on what type of braces you’re going with—brackets attached to clear plastic aligners or metal brackets bonded onto your teeth.
What type of special care do I need after getting my braces put on?
You will want to floss between your braces and teeth at least once a day. This can be done by using a string of dental floss, which is usually supplied by your orthodontist. Make sure you pick up some extra from your local drug store before you start treatment. Another option is to use a product called interdental brushes, which are special types of small brushes that clean in between teeth and braces. They are specially made for cleaning in tight spaces. You will want to use these at least once a day when you first get your braces on and then as needed after that. Also, it is important to brush normally while wearing your retainers at night before bedtime and immediately after getting them taken off in the morning or during lunch break at school or work.
