When it comes to getting your braces off, a few factors come into play that could potentially prolong your treatment time. While every patient waits eagerly for the day they get to remove their braces, that day will only come if you follow instructions. However, it’s not always in your hands. Other factors may affect treatment time, but it’s always recommended you be strict in caring for your braces.
At Trapnell Orthodontics, we love seeing patients’ faces when they are getting their braces off, but you’ll need to properly maintain your braces in order for that to happen. Even if prolonged treatment is out of your control, it may help to know what factors account for the lengthened time. Take a moment to learn more about orthodontic treatment and what may prolong the process.
Factor 1: Your Orthodontic Treatment Plan
Orthodontic treatment is specific to each patient. Your orthodontist assesses your mouth very carefully to determine what will be the best plan for you and, sometimes, that plan may be longer than others—depending on the state of your teeth and bite. While each patient’s plan is carefully devised, some factors may arise and getting your braces off could be pushed back a bit. Some of these factors are listed below:
- A problem needing attention arises after treatment has started.
- A change in your treatment plan needs to be made.
- Unforeseen issues, such as losing a tooth, arise.
- Rescheduling affected important appointments.
Factor 2: Failing to Follow Instructions
In terms of getting your braces off, this is when you become a factor. If you fail to follow specific instructions given by your orthodontist, you could easily prolong your treatment. Whether it’s wearing your brands as advised or avoiding harmful foods, there’s plenty you can do to stay on track. Do your part in getting your braces off on time and consider the tips below:
- Try making it to every appointment possible without rescheduling.
- If you do need to reschedule, try getting an appointment close to the date and time of the one you can’t make.
- Make sure you follow instructions: wearing bands & aligners and maintaining teeth.
- If you need a tooth extraction, or have lost one, address the issue as quick as possible to stay on track with the treatment plan.
- Care for your braces. Avoid harmful foods, keep them clean, and do your best in preventing damage to brackets and wires.
Factor 3: Your Body’s Reaction
As mentioned, getting your braces off isn’t always in your control. In addition to your ability to follow instructions and unforeseen issues in your orthodontic plan, your body’s response to your braces is also a key factor in prolonged treatment.
Treatment time is often estimated according to previous patients with similar conditions to you prior to braces. Your teeth may not respond to the forces as presumed, which could obviously lengthen treatment. It’s unfortunate, but you can do your best by sticking to your plan and adhering to instructions.
Questions About Getting Your Braces Off? Call Us!
Clearly, getting your braces off depends on a variety of factors. Fortunately, you can do your part in staying on track, though some issues may arise. Your orthodontist will also do their best to create the perfect plan for you.
Whether you’ve already started orthodontic treatment or would like to, contact Trapnell Orthodontics today if you have any questions about your plan.
