Two of the most common questions we’re asked at Norwest orthodontics are: “How long does treatment take?” and “Which treatment is fastest?”
And we totally understand. Most of our patients would like to achieve a picture-perfect smile in a timeframe that’s as short as possible.
However, it doesn’t quite work like that. Not all available treatments are suited to all patients.
Regardless of which orthodontic treatment you have, it isn’t something that achieves results overnight and it isn’t a process that you should be looking to rush.
In fact, the very fact that orthodontics takes time to achieve the ideal result is the reason that a beautiful smile will last.
Here’s an insight into the process of orthodontics, how the timeframe can vary and ways that you can help speed up the treatment process.
A quick 101 on teeth straightening
Whether it’s recommended you have braces or clear aligners, orthodontic treatment takes time. That’s because straightening teeth and aligning the bite is a process.
Usually the first stage of treatment involves straightening the teeth. Known as the initial alignment this is achieved by applying gentle pressure to move your teeth into the ideal position.
The reality is it doesn’t take very long for your teeth to look straight when you’re treated with braces or aligners, but ensuring those teeth stay in place takes a significantly longer period. That’s because when your teeth shift, the bone on one side of a tooth is broken down (resorption), while additional bone mass is created on the other side (deposition).
Once your teeth are in the right position, the orthodontic process turns its attention to correcting the bite, closing or opening spaces where needed and maintaining teeth position.
This stage can take a while, depending on the severity of the malalignment and the issues that need to be addressed.
The importance of a good bite
In their quest for a good-looking smile, people often underestimate the importance of a well-aligned bite. Orthodontists view both bite correction and straight teeth as equally important.
A bite that is properly aligned means there is less wear and tear on specific teeth that would’ve been at risk of trauma if the bite was not corrected. Ultimately these teeth are then less likely to suffer trauma, damage and decay over the course of your life.
While not every individual has issues with their bite, they are very common, with crossbites, underbites, increased overjet and overbite among the issues orthodontists work to address throughout the orthodontic process.
It’s an individual thing
No two patients are ever the same when it comes to the extent of treatment required and the bite correction that needs to be addressed.
That means the length of treatment time varies from one individual to another. Treatment should be tailored to the individual and take the time required to achieve the desired result.
Meanwhile, people’s bodies react differently. For some their teeth will align quickly, for others it might take a little longer.
The upshot is there are no hard and fast rules for how long treatment will take, and even when your orthodontist gives you an estimated timeframe, occasionally it could take longer or shorter to achieve that perfect result.
As all patients are individuals, it might also mean some treatment options are better suited to one person than another. For example, severe malalignment could mean braces are the preferred treatment option to clear aligners.
Some good news
Now that we’ve explained why treatments and timeframes may vary, there’s also some good news to reveal.
Modern treatments like Damon braces mean excellent results can be achieved in less time than previously, and regardless of which treatment option you have, there are ways you can help keep progress on track.
How you can assist the orthodontic process
Although your orthodontist is the expert professional in charge of managing your treatment, the reality is orthodontics is a partnership, and you can assist the process in a host of different ways.
Attend appointments regularly – Appointments with your orthodontist are designed to monitor progress and advance the treatment. If you delay or miss appointments, the treatment time can ultimately lengthen.
Follow instructions given – If you have clear aligners like Invisalign, your orthodontist will set a schedule for when these need to be changed and how many hours in a day they need to be worn. Meanwhile, if elastics are part of your braces treatment process, your orthodontist will likely advise you on when they need to be worn and for how long.
Towards the end of your treatment you might also be given a retainer and given timeframes for when this should be worn.
All of these instructions are designed to progress your orthodontic treatment, and when you don’t comply with them, it takes longer to achieve the desired result.
Report any breakages – Accidents can and do happen, but if a bracket comes off your tooth, the archwire becomes dislodged or something happens to your retainer or aligners, you need to get in touch with your orthodontist to have it rectified sooner rather than later.
A breakage could mean your teeth are not being moved as they’re meant to or they’re not being held in the right position, which might delay the progress of treatment.
About Norwest
Norwest Orthodontics specialises in helping you achieve a great smile, no matter your age. We feature a range of orthodontic treatments that span from early intervention for children right through to teenagers and adults.
We also have a suite of treatments available that includes Invisalign and we welcome the opportunity to work with you to achieve the smile that you’ve always dreamed of.
You can learn more about our services, or contact us here to make an appointment.
