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How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Orthodontic treatment can be as quick as a few weeks, or as long as a few years. It all depends on how much your teeth need to be moved and whether the movement is straightforward or complicated. Your orthodontist or dentist can advise you.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

How long should I wear retainers after having braces?

Follow the instructions given to you by your treating dentist or orthodontist. You may need to wear a retainer day and night right after your braces are removed and, after some time, reduce this to night-time wear only. At the very …

Are invisible braces better than normal braces?

Invisible braces have advantages (less visible, easier to clean teeth, able to be removed for special occasions) and disadvantages (not suitable for all cases, easy to lose or forget to wear them, can take longer to get a result). Your …

Will my teeth move back to where they started after I get my braces off?

You will need to wear a retainer or have one fitted to your teeth to stop your teeth from moving back to their original positions after your braces are removed. Try to wear the retainer as advised by your dentist or …

Are braces painful?

When braces are first fitted, they can cause irritation to the lips and cheeks, which can be painful. This will get better over time, and you will be given instructions on how to manage this. When the braces are adjusted every month, there is more discomfort. Some …

Can I eat normally when I have braces?

If you have braces, it is best to avoid very hard foods such as lilies, nuts and hard muesli bars that can break the small parts of your braces. Very sticky foods such as toffee and chewy mints can also damage the braces. Hard, crunchy fruit and …

Is it possible to be allergic to braces?

It is possible to be allergic to braces, although it is very rare. Advise your orthodontist or dentist if you have any known allergies to metals, plastics or latex. Alternatives are available.

Can I get my braces taken off for a special occasion and then put back on?

You can usually get your braces taken off for a special occasion, although it is time-consuming and can involve additional costs. If this is necessary, the braces need to go back on as soon as possible after the …

Can adults have orthodontic treatment?

Teeth may not move as quickly in adults as they do in children, but treatment for adults is available.

Can adults have braces?

Adults can have braces. There are different types of braces available that can be less visible than metal braces, which make them a more popular choice for adults. Straightening a crooked smile is worthwhile at any age.

Is it too late to have braces in your 50s?

No, not at all. Provided your teeth are healthy and free from tooth decay and gum disease, treatment can be just as successful as at any other age.

Do I still need to wear a mouth guard for sport if I have braces?

If you play a contact sport that normally requires a mouth guard, then wear one even if you have braces. Your orthodontist or dentist may need to specially mold one for you to fit over your braces.

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About this article

Author: Jonathan Meddings BMedLabSc (Hons)
First answered: 06 Oct 2014
Last reviewed: 14 May 2019
Rating: 4.1 out of 5
Votes: 47 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Teeth whitening

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