How long do braces last?

Realistic expectations on the length of your treatment

Braces are a dental treatment designed to realign and straighten your teeth. This makes it easier to eat and drink, without food becoming trapped but also benefits your overall smile and can give the wearer greater confidence once the braces have been removed.

Generally, a user will have braces for between 18 months and 3 years. The exact time will be dependent on how crooked or protruded the teeth are, but your dentist or orthodontistA dental specialist whose practice is limited to the interception and treatment of malocclusion of the teeth and their surrounding structures. will be able to provide you with these details during your consultation and will be happy to explain step by step the timeline of your treatment. 

Additionally, having your braces may be delayed by the health of your teeth and gums. If you have gum disease or any dental issues such as tooth infection, your dentist will postpone having the braces fitted until this has been rectified.

Whilst you have braces you will need to visit the practice every 6 to 8 weeks for a check-up to make sure the braces are working and that there are no unforeseen issues, such as wires breaking or plaqueA soft sticky substance that accumulates on teeth composed largely of bacteria and bacterial derivatives. building up. Dentists need to clean plaque build up in your teeth before it evolves into an infection which could cause problems. Furthermore, whilst you have braces you should continue with a rigorous oral hygiene routine which means brushing twice a day and flossing at least once. Your dentist will provide advice and guidance about the best way to do this without damaging the braces.

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