What can I expect from wearing dental braces?

Although orthodontic treatment plans are customized for each patient, most people wear their braces for one to three years depending on the conditions that need correcting. This is followed by a period of wearing a retainer that holds the teeth in their new positions. Although a little discomfort is expected during treatment, today's braces are more comfortable than ever before. Newer materials apply a constant, gentle force to move teeth and usually require fewer adjustments.

Your dentist may recommend avoiding certain foods that could interfere with braces or accidentally bend the wires. These foods may include nuts, popcorn, hard candy, ice and sticky foods like chewing gum, caramel or other chewy candy.

Orthodontic treatment time generally is an estimate that varies from patient to patient. The dentist has specific treatment goals in mind, and treatment typically continues until the goals are achieved. The result will be worth the wait.