What Braces Work the Fastest?
There are multiple factors to consider when planning orthodontic treatment. Two factors that influence many people’s treatment decisions are the cost of treatment, and the overall treatment time. There’s no universal answer to which braces work the fastest, but more complex cases generally require longer treatments, of course. When the goal is mild to moderate correction of tooth or bite alignment, however, consensus indicates that clear aligners, like Invisalign, are the most efficient, quickest way to straighten the teeth. When orthodontic needs are more complicated, there are different types of braces that might be recommended, and these also vary in treatment time, and in the other benefits and drawbacks they may carry. Your orthodontist will review all your options with you during your consultation, and you can make an informed decision about the factors that matter to you.
What Is A Typical Treatment Time for Clear Aligners?
There are several different brands of clear aligners; Invisalign, as a pioneer in the field, is the most widely known, but it is by no means the only option. Clear aligners continue to grow in popularity, bringing multiple benefits to orthodontic patients. These clear plastic trays gradually move the teeth into their correct position with a series of different-sized trays, replaced every two weeks. On average, adults complete treatment with clear aligners in around a year, though some treatments can be completed in as little as three months. Because these trays are removed for eating and cleaning the teeth, they are easy to use and convenient, and, as they are invisible, they don’t create the aesthetic issues that can come with braces. However, clear aligners can only be used for mild to moderate alignment issues, and, because they’re removable and could be misplaced, parents of younger patients may not prefer the risk of losing the trays.
What About the Different Kinds of Braces? How Long Do They Take?
Self-ligating braces are the most efficient type of braces, with treatment taking around six months less than treatment with traditional or ceramic braces. They are also more comfortable and easy to clean than other braces. Self-ligating braces are specialized braces that aren’t connected to wires by elastic, making them easier and more comfortable to adjust and much easier to clean. Traditional braces, which can be made of metal or of ceramic, continue to be a popular treatment choice, though treatment takes a bit longer than treatment with self-ligating braces. Treatment times with any type of traditional braces, whether metal or ceramic, average about two years, though some treatments may be completed in as little as a year and some treatments take longer. Ceramic braces are especially popular among parents of teenagers, as they’re not as visible as metal braces. Another option for patients who want an unobtrusive orthodontic treatment is lingual braces. Lingual braces are affixed to the backs of the teeth, which means they can’t be seen from outside the mouth. Lingual braces aren’t appropriate for every case, and treatment also tends to take longer than treatment with traditional or self-ligated braces. Additionally, some patients report that lingual braces are more difficult to clean, though they also enjoy the fact that they can see their teeth as their alignment adjusts. In many cases, patients report seeing minor changes in as little as three weeks.