How Long Will I Have to Wear Braces?

One of the first questions our orthodontist at Winchester Orthodontics is asked by patients and their families is “How long will I have to wear braces?” It’s an obvious question, and one we often receive before treatment even starts! And while the time frame is different for every person, we do our best to offer an answer.

The time period for treatment can range between 12 and 36 months on average. Keep in mind that moving your teeth into their optimal position is a process that requires time, and the amount of time depends on a host of factors. Your age, the alignment of your teeth and jaw, and the type of treatment will all have an impact on the duration. At our state-of-the-art office, patients can be sure that our methods are designed to make the process as brief and comfortable as possible.

Here are a few tips to keep at the forefront if you’d like to stay on course with your treatment: 

• Keep your regular orthodontic appointments so that we can keep track of the progress our treatment is making. Missing appointments can end up dragging out the process,

• Steer clear of foods that can damage the wires and brackets on your braces. Hard and sugary foods like popcorn, nuts, and gum should be avoided during our treatment.

• Make sure to wear those rubber bands that increase the effectiveness of your braces. 

• Up your oral hygiene game. Brushing and flossing carefully to reach all the places where food particles can hide is more important than ever to prevent cavity-causing bacteria from building up around the wires and brackets.

Our orthodontist at Winchester Orthodontics wants our patients to be active partners in the treatment process. Let’s work together to create a healthy, beautiful smile you’ll be proud of for years to come! Please contact our office with any questions about our treatments or to arrange an appointment.