Cosmetic braces are a great alternative to traditional braces, which are far more visible while they are worn. However, many patients still have concerns about how long the cosmetic brackets process takes to straighten teeth. Learning more about what cosmetic braces are and how long the treatment process takes can help you determine if treatment is appropriate for your needs.
What is the timeline for cosmetic braces?
The amount of time cosmetic brackets take to straighten teeth depends on the severity of the misalignment that is being corrected, the type of cosmetic braces, and how well the patient follows the treatment plan. In general, cosmetic braces can take between six months to more than 24 months to complete.
What are cosmetic braces?
Cosmetic braces are an alternative cosmetic treatment option to traditional braces. Of course, traditionally, braces involve metal brackets and wires that are highly visible by others while the patient smiles. Cosmetic braces are much more discreet. This is accomplished by using tooth-colored materials rather than the visible metal materials used with traditional braces.
The different types of cosmetic braces
There are different types of cosmetic braces that may be an option for patients searching for discreet orthodontic treatment. The most common types are:
- Ceramic braces
- Lingual braces
- Clear aligners
Ceramic braces are often used for more severe misalignments. Some patients also prefer ceramic or lingual braces if they do not want the responsibility of removing and keeping up with their aligners. Clear aligners are not technically braces, but they are often effective orthodontic devices. They are essentially clear trays of a strong plastic material that are almost invisible to others while they are worn.
How long do cosmetic braces take?
Cosmetic braces can take anywhere from six months to more than two years. Ceramic braces and lingual braces take longer on average than clear aligners to straighten teeth. During the consultation visit, orthodontic professionals can examine the severity of the misalignment, what preparation procedures are necessary (e.g., tooth extraction), and more to provide a more precise timeline for the cosmetic braces treatment process.
Cosmetic braces vs. traditional orthodontic braces
Cosmetic braces offer many of the same advantages as traditional braces, but they are more discreet. However, traditional metal braces may be more durable and damage-resistant. Braces, rather than aligners, are more suitable for severe misalignments, whereas aligners may be more of an option for mild misalignments. Anyone who is not happy with their smile due to a misalignment of their teeth or jaw should consider braces or aligners treatment. Younger patients may be better suited for metal braces, whereas older teenagers and adults may prefer more discreet treatment options with cosmetic braces.
Are you interested in cosmetic braces?
Call our cosmetic braces team today to schedule a consultation visit. During your first visit with our friendly orthodontic professionals, we can provide answers to all of your questions and help you decide on the best and most convenient way to straighten your smile.
Request an appointment here: https://www.brooksideorthodontics.com or call Brookside Orthodontics at (209) 732-1124 for an appointment in our Stockton office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: cosmetic braces in Stockton, CA.
Recent Posts
Not all orthodontists offer clear braces for teens. In fact, many do not, preferring to stick with traditional metal braces instead. The reason is understandable. Traditional metal braces have been used for decades and the results are proven and dependable.As they say, "When something is working, why change it?" We ask this question because we believe in…
Wondering whether wearing retainers is really necessary? Read on to learn more. You know braces and aligners can help you get those straight teeth you desire, but retainers are the next step. These little devices will keep your teeth aligned and your smile beautiful for years.Retainers are custom orthodontic devices that help keep the teeth…
Everyone deserves a smile that makes them feel confident, and for many patients, braces are a way to achieve a more symmetric smile and address aesthetic concerns. This review provides answers to common questions about braces treatment. It should help you decide if braces treatment is right for you (or your child).It helps to have…
Braces are used to address myriad oral health concerns, including but not limited to overcrowding, gaps between teeth (i.e., spacing concerns), and crooked teeth. They can also address bite complications like underbites, overbites, and crossbites. In this review, we look specifically at how braces can fix overcrowding and spacing issues in patients of all ages.Whether…