DON’T DITCH ADULT BRACES JUST YET: TIME IS ON YOUR SIDE
As an adult, when you realize that you may need to have orthodontic treatment, the first question that comes to mind is unlikely to be the cost, but rather, the time needed to wear the braces or orthodontic appliance for. Many of the patients we see here in our Burlingame office are willing to undergo orthodontic treatment as an adult, if the orthodontic treatment WILL provide them with an aesthetically pleasing smile and straight teeth. While many patients like the idea of straightening their teeth, they want to know how long it will take and the timeframe often worries them.
Just like teens, adults have reservations about their teeth because they do not want others to notice that they are undergoing treatment and the thought of traditional metal braces may bring about some self-esteem issues. Dr. April Lee discusses all of the treatment options we have available during a one-on-one and confidential consultation. All of the details will be explained in great depth to include the estimated timeline of the treatment. You will also learn about the risks, benefits, and results that may occur.
Dr. Lee likes to explain the recommended timeline with her patients to ensure that each patient is able to make an informed decision about their dental care. Some patients may decide that orthodontic treatment is not for them based on the timeline while others may see it as a benefit.
If you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Lee, do not hesitate to call our Burlingame office now.
Factors That Will Influence the Amount of Time You Need Adult Braces
There are many different factors that exist that can influence the amount of time that will take for you to complete orthodontic treatment. Adult braces are not always a quick solution and the amount of time that takes will depend on the following factors:
Treatment Goals: Patients who are after treatment solely for an aesthetic reason will likely be candidates for the fast-acting braces. These braces will provide you with a quick treatment and they do not take as long as traditional options.
The Ability to Follow Direction: If a patient does not follow direction, then the treatment time will take significantly longer. It is important to make sure that you listen to all of Dr. Lee’s advice. In situations where Invisalign is used, the clear retainers need to be worn for a total of 20 to 22 hours PER day. The aligners can only be removed to floss, brush, and eat. If you do not follow these guidelines, then the treatment time will be lengthened, or the treatment may not work properly.
Severity of the Issue: Some patients seek out orthodontic treatment due to a small flaw while others need to have a severe issue corrected. The amount of time it takes will depend on the severity and, as you may have thought, a more severe issue will take longer to correct.
Type of Treatment Used: Dr. Lee offers a variety of treatment options that are ideal for adults of any age. Some of the available options include Invisalign, fast-acting braces, and traditional metal braces.
Adult Braces Average Timelines
The exact timeline of your adult braces will vary based on several different factors, which are discussed above. When you come into Burlingame Smile Studio for a consultation, Dr. Lee will discuss your ideal timeline with you and make recommendations based on the results you want to achieve.
Below, Dr. Lee will explain some of the expected timelines with the different types of braces that we offer in our office.
Traditional Braces – The amount of time that it takes for traditional braces treatment will vary widely depending on each individual patient. The average amount of treatment time is about two and a half years. Adults who have serious orthodontic issues may need to have their braces left in place for longer than that, but this will be discussed in length with you.
Invisalign – Invisalign is a clear braces solution, which is ideal for teens and adults. It will take about one year to complete the treatment cycle, but it is important to note that not all patients are a candidate for this type of treatment.
Acceledent Enhanced treatment – This is an adjunctive device that when used in conjunction with braces or invisalign can reduce the treatment time needed to complete your care by up to 40%!
Learn More By Contacting Burlingame Smile Studio
If you would like to learn more about braces, the timeline for treatment, or if you are a good candidate, now is the time to call Burlingame Smile Studio and book your consultation with Dr. Lee. Our number is (650) 231-2680.
