Braces are a common and popular dental treatment to correct

misaligned, crowded, and crooked teeth. They can also be used to close gaps between teeth and correct the bite so the top and bottom teeth meet comfortably when the mouth is closed. 

For decades, braces were the only option for dental patients searching for orthodontic treatment to restore their smile. Thanks to innovation and advancement in the dental industry, today, there are a variety of treatments that can be used to straighten teeth. 

However, braces remain one of the most popular types of cosmetic teeth straightening methods for teenagers and adults. 

The truth is every case is unique, and braces treatment works at different speeds for everyone. The treatment could take anywhere from a few months to several years to straighten your teeth, depending on the severity of the case. 

Patients with mild cases will typically wear braces for between one and two years, whereas patients with severe dental issues may wear braces for considerably longer. 

If you are considering braces and would like to know how long you will need to wear braces, this blog will explain the treatment time for braces, why people may wear braces for longer, and how braces protect your teeth. 

How long should you wear braces?

Each treatment journey is different. There are several factors that can impact the length of time you will need to wear your brace. This includes age, complexity of the case, compliance, and the type of brace. 

Contrary to popular belief, age is often not a contributing factor to knowing how long you will need to wear braces. Treatment times are often the same for adults as they are for teenagers.  

The average amount of time that a patient wears a brace is between one and three years. However, you may be required to wear a brace for a shorter or longer amount of time, depending on the severity of your condition. 

Mild cases such as crooked teeth and spacing issues should be corrected within a fairly short time. However, if you suffer from a severe over or underbite, you may be required to wear braces for an extended period. 

When the time is right, and your teeth have gently moved into the desired position, your orthodontist will ask you to schedule an appointment to remove your brace. 

 

Why do people wear braces for longer?

There are many reasons as to why some people are required to wear braces for longer. Slow-moving teeth, complex orthodontic cases, and extensive overcrowding are common reasons people wear braces for a longer duration. 

 

Additionally, missing an orthodontic appointment, poor cleaning, and not wearing your bands correctly can also prolong your treatment time. However, this can be avoided by ensuring you take good care of your brace and attending regular appointments with your orthodontist every four to six weeks.

 

How do braces protect your teeth?

While the primary purpose of a brace is not to protect the teeth, in the same way as a mouthguard, braces do contribute to the overall protection of your teeth. 

Braces help to support the bones and tissues in your mouth. By straightening your teeth, braces make it much easier to brush and floss effectively. This makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene, reduces the risk of future dental issues, and protects your teeth from tooth decay and plaque build-up.

Furthermore, braces correct alignment and bite issues to help distribute chewing and biting more evenly. In turn, this reduces the risk of tooth fractures and protects your teeth from damage that occurs when teeth are misaligned in the mouth. 

 

Is there a problem with wearing dental braces for four years?

In complex cases can take as long as four years for all teeth to move into the desired position. However, mild cases are unlikely to take this long and wearing braces for too long can cause further dental problems. 

If an orthodontist is letting you wear your braces for longer than it is necessary, they may not be adequately trained or qualified. This is just one of the reasons it is so important to choose a trusted and reputable dental practitioner to carry out your dental treatment. 

 

Choosing a trusted dental practitioner

When choosing a trusted dental practitioner, it is important to find a dental practitioner and practice that is right for you and your unique needs. 

You should consider their experience, training, qualifications, and testimonials from previous patients. These are great ways to find a reputable and trustworthy dental practitioner and dental practice. 

Qualified and trustworthy dental practitioners will always be happy to provide evidence of their training and provide you with ongoing support before, during, and after treatment.

 

You may also wish to discuss any questions, concerns, or queries you have with your chosen dental practitioner to relieve any doubt or nerves you may have. A professional dental practice or dentist should be able to answer your questions with confidence and make you feel at ease. 

 

Why choose Hermes London Dental Clinic?

At Hermes London Dental Clinic, we provide a five-star experience to all our patients. From the initial consultation to the end of your treatment, we ensure that you are treated with the very highest of care. 

Our experienced and expert staff will spend time discussing all your treatment options with you so you are able to make an informed decision about your orthodontics treatment. Practising the highest standards and using the best quality materials, we pride ourselves on excellent performance.

For more information about brace treatment or to book your consultation, get in touch today.