Los Angeles, CA – Many people are discouraged when they learn they will have to wear braces for 12 to 18 months in order to get the full effect of treatment. Even Invisalign takes at least a year to work. So many want to know: is there a way to shorten the duration of orthodontic treatment?
Understand Your Commitment
When you decide to get braces—no matter what brand or type—you are making a significant commitment to your teeth. You shouldn’t expect to be able to cut corners or to get your braces off quickly, as this may compromise treatment outcome and stability. Generally, you should expect to be in your braces for at least a year’s time.
Take Very Good Care of Your Teeth
This cannot be stressed enough. When your doctor gives you certain instructions—like brushing your teeth often and rinsing with water—these tips are essential to keeping your braces clean. When your teeth are clean, your braces will do their job better, and your orthodontist will be able to take off your braces sooner, in many cases. Make sure to brush three times a day, and it can even be a good idea to use an electric toothbrush to make sure you get your smile as clean as possible.
Never Skip Your Appointments
When you have an appointment for an adjustment, don’t skip out. The longer you put off these appointments, the longer you will have to wear your braces. It’s important to make your doctor’s visits a top priority; this will definitely help you get your braces off faster.
Avoid Certain Behaviors
Certain foods, drinks, and other items can cause problems with your braces that will also have you wearing them longer than you might expect. Make sure you avoid:Foods like popcorn, chips, nuts, gum, caramel, toffee, etc.
- Soda and carbonated beverages
- Eating or chewing ice cubes
- Putting pencils or other items in your mouth that aren’t food
- Biting your nails
- Playing with your rubber bands
Also, cutting your food into smaller pieces will make it much easier to eat, and you’ll be less likely to get any food stuck in those hard to reach places between the brackets and wires.
Schedule a Free Consultation for Braces
Individual differences can lengthen or shorten treatment time. If you’re ready to improve your smile and oral health with a retainer or braces, contact Nikaeen Orthodontics. Dr. Nikaeen not only specializes in braces and retainers but also in Invisalign and orthognathic surgery in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica, California. Call 310-444-1113 to schedule a consultation.
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