Braces | 5 min read
How long do braces take, and are you too old for them?
Braces time depends on your teeth, not your age. A simple guide to metal braces, ceramic braces and clear aligners.
By Dr. Ayesha Raza, Smile Dental Clinic (demo)
The most common question at a braces consultation is how long it will take. The honest answer: it depends on how much your teeth need to move, and how well you keep your appointments.
Typical times
- Small gaps or mild crowding: 6 to 12 months
- Moderate crowding: 12 to 18 months
- Bite problems or severe crowding: 18 to 24 months
Too old for braces?
No. Teeth can move at any age if the gums and bone are healthy. Many of our braces patients are adults, and clear aligners are popular with working people.
Metal, ceramic or aligners
- Metal braces: strongest and lowest price
- Ceramic braces: tooth-coloured, harder to see
- Clear aligners: removable trays, best for mild to moderate cases
After braces
You wear a retainer, mostly at night, so the teeth stay in place. Skipping the retainer is the most common reason teeth move back.
Sample article on a demo website, for general information only. It is not medical advice: always ask your own dentist.