Longevity of Teeth Straightening Treatment

If you seek a straighter smile, your dentist can align crooked teeth using clear braces. These custom-made plastic aligners gradually shift your teeth into an aligned position when worn as instructed.

Though the advantages of this cosmetic dental solution seem clear, some patients may worry about the length of this treatment and its aftercare. Feel confident in pursuing this treatment by calling your dentist and discovering the specific care you need to get the smile of your dreams. You can also read on to garner a firmer understanding of what to expect from clear braces.

How Long Will It Take to Complete Teeth Straightening Treatment?

Teeth straightening with clear braces will vary in the length of the treatment for each patient. The existing dental structure and goals of each person will be different and will require a unique approach.

They can wear clear braces for as short as six months or up to three years, depending on their specific needs. A dentist will evaluate your smile and determine a customized treatment plan that will give you your desired results.

Treatment length also relies on your compliance with this process. Wear your aligners as instructed in order to get the best results in the projected amount of time. Each set of clear braces will achieve specific goals for you, so switch them when your dentist tells you to.

Will I Have Straight Teeth Forever?

After dedicating your time to the teeth-straightening process with clear braces, you want to ensure you maximize the benefits of your results. You can feel confident that your straight smile can last forever with proper oral health care.

Clear braces shift your teeth into the desired aligned position, which improves both the look and health of your smile. But if you do not adhere to your dentist’s aftercare instructions, the teeth might move out of place again. Protect your newly straight smile by following their guidelines.

Continue good oral hygiene at home too. Cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems that stem from poor oral cleanliness can affect your teeth’s alignment. Prevent these issues by taking proper care of your smile.

Do I Need to Wear a Retainer?

The best way to preserve your newly straightened smile is by wearing the retainer your dentist will give you after you finish clear braces treatment. Use this appliance as instructed, which will entail wearing the retainer much like you did your aligners. If you fail to do so, your teeth will likely move back into their crooked position in a condition known as orthodontic relapse.

This shifting post-cosmetic treatment occurs because the teeth have not yet fused into the jaw in their new positions. Retainers keep the teeth in place while this process happens.

After nine to twelve months of continuous retainer usage, you might wear the devices less often, like only at bedtime. Consult with your dentist before changing the way you wear your retainers. They can also offer you more advice to preserve your smile and oral health.