When it comes to the average braces treatment time in Uptown New Orleans, you might not know what to expect. The reality is that each patient is different, and every case can require a different timeline to achieve the desired results. For example, a gap between teeth will most likely take less time than attempting to realign a serious overbite. This blog will discuss which factors your dentist will use to determine the timeline of your treatment and share what you can do to avoid delays along the way.
Your Orthodontic Timetable
Although it would be ideal and convenient to declare a set timeframe for wearing braces, this is not how it works. Every smile is different and can present a host of issues and concerns that will cause a dentist to take a unique approach that affects the timeline. While other considerations will be taken, the following will dictate much of your overall timeline wearing braces:
The Type and Severity of Your Orthodontic Problem
Are your teeth crooked, gapped, or crowded? Do you have a significant overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite? The severity of your individual problem can be one of the greatest factors when it comes to determining how long you can expect to wear braces. Some issues will require more time than others to fix.
Which Orthodontic Treatment You Will Choose
Depending on your dentist, you may have multiple orthodontic options or only one. While it is true that clear aligner systems often produce quicker results, metal braces are most commonly used because of their ability to address complex issues and their likely coverage by dental insurance. Not to mention, traditional orthodontics tend to be more affordable.
Additional Appliances to Achieve Results
While it would be nice to only have to rely on metal brackets and wires to straighten teeth, the fact is that many people require additional appliances to encourage proper movement. Rubber bands, palate expanders, and headgear are often recommended as part of a treatment plan to ensure teeth move into the proper place. These appliances can cause your treatment time to be longer because they are often required when additional help is needed to move teeth.
How to Minimize or Avoid Delays
Yes, your braces are responsible for actually moving your teeth in the right direction, but you will be required to take certain steps to keep delays from happening along the way. You can do this by:
- Keeping up with your oral hygiene routine, making sure to brush, floss, and rinse regularly to remove any bacteria or food particles that can cause tooth decay and gum disease.
- Wearing a mouthguard if you play sports or suffer from teeth grinding at night.
- Staying away from hard, crunchy foods because of the possibility of damaging your appliances.
- Avoiding bad habits like biting your nails, using your teeth as tools, or eating ice, as these can cause brackets to break and wires to poke out.
- Keeping your regular follow-up appointments with your dentist to ensure treatment is moving along smoothly.
Most orthodontic cases take about 12-24 months. However, this timeline can be shorter or longer depending on the patient and severity of the case. No matter how long your orthodontic treatment time in Uptown New Orleans will be, remember that the investment you’re making will be well worth it once you see a healthier, straighter smile.
About the Author
Dr. Robert Camenzuli is a trusted dentist in Uptown New Orleans who decided to pursue dentistry after wearing braces as a teenager. Leading a team of experts at Camenzuli Dental Excellence, he now helps patients of all ages achieve straighter, healthier smiles through the use of orthodontics. No matter if you or your teen need help to eliminate overcrowding, gapped teeth, or bite misalignment, Dr. Camenzuli can employ the right techniques and methods to achieve beautiful, life-changing results. If you’re ready to change the appearance of your smile and ensure a lifetime of better oral health, contact us today or call (504) 895-3400.