How long does it take to put braces on? The length of time it takes to get your braces depends on the type of braces you choose, the severity of your teeth issues, and any other additional treatments you receive while wearing braces. To break it down even further, here’s how long you can expect each step in the braces process to take (including how long it takes to put braces on) so you can better plan your schedule!
The dentist appointment
Braces are a great way to fix any crooked teeth. To really understand how long does it take to put on braces, we need to first determine what’s involved in that appointment. During your appointment, there are several different steps that will be completed: (1) Examination, (2) x-rays if needed, (3) Bracket placement (trays), and finally(4) Review with your orthodontist. Your entire visit can last an hour or more depending on your specific situation. Most people are finished by lunchtime after their initial appointment; however some appointments may require multiple visits before finishing. If x-rays are necessary then additional time may be required as well. So, we hope that answers any question about how long does it take put braces on!
The tools
There are a few things your orthodontist will need when putting braces on your teeth. First, they’ll need a bracket and wire so they can attach each tooth. Then, they’ll insert spacers in between each tooth to prevent irritation and create space between teeth. The wires that make up your braces will have a colored coating so your dentist knows which wire is connected to what tooth. They may also use light-cured resin materials or adhesives to secure everything into place during treatment. For more information, read our post How do Braces Work? Everything You Need To Know About Orthodontic Treatment .
The pain
Braces are pretty notorious for being uncomfortable, but they don’t have to be painful. To make sure that your braces experience is as pain-free as possible, read up on how your orthodontist will actually attach them. The most common method is known as drilling and involves making a series of holes in your teeth through which small wires and brackets are attached. According to WebMD, most orthodontists will drill only one or two teeth at a time because excessive pressure can cause irreversible damage. Once your brace brackets are installed, there may be some soreness and mild discomfort; pain medications can help alleviate these symptoms. There may also be some minor bruising near where each bracket was installed; luckily, that should go away fairly quickly.
The process
Braces typically take 6-18 months, depending on your orthodontist and which type of braces you choose. Many orthodontists do a consultation, x-rays, and then treatment planning before they actually get to work. If they find that any corrections need to be made with your bite or jaw position first, that could extend your treatment time. With traditional metal braces: You’ll wear a retainer full-time during phase one of treatment (usually about 18 months) so that any minor adjustments from phase one are made permanent by phase two. With clear plastic aligners: There are no retainers and only about 3-4 months of active treatment instead of 11⁄2 years or more with traditional metal braces.
The cost
The average cost of installing braces is $5,000. At first glance, that might seem expensive. But consider how much time and money can be saved by putting off braces until adulthood, a time when most people are more financially stable. The total cost of an adult’s orthodontic care (including procedures like teeth whitening) is typically around $10,000—which still amounts to just $100 per month over five years, a small price to pay for straight teeth in adulthood. It’s also important to remember that adult orthodontics do not include Invisalign or any other forms of invisible aligners; those are still reserved for younger patients who require quick treatment as opposed to fully-grown adults with full smiles.
How To Deal With Teeth Pain During Braces
Braces can get uncomfortable at times, especially when you first get them. Aside from possible soreness and tenderness, some people experience mild pain in their teeth that can last a couple of days. Fortunately, there are ways to relieve it. You can use over-the-counter medications or simply rinse your mouth with warm salt water. Here’s how: Mix one teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of lukewarm water.
