Home » What to expect during Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatments can vary a lot in length. There are a number of factors that contribute to treatment length from patient compliance to how easily the teeth themselves move. The type of treatment you decide on is also a deciding factor in how long the treatment will last. On average orthodontic treatment can take anywhere from 6 months to two years. Book a consultation today with one of our specialist orthodontists to discuss which options are suitable for you and they will be able to give you an idea of how long the process will take.
Once your brace has been fitted your orthodontist will ask to see you approximately every 6-12 weeks to make adjustments. The interval between appointments will all depend on what stage of treatment you are at and what adjustments you orthodontist needs to make next time. Speak to a member of our reception team to book your next visit with us, this can be done in person at your next visit or over the phone.
Orthodontic treatment can be uncomfortable from time to time. You may notice your teeth become tender after the brace has been fitted, this is normal and will settle by itself within a week or so but some patients find pain relief helps. Orthodontic ‘pain’ is usually temporary and you will notice it less and less throughout treatment as you become more used to the discomfort associated with straightening the teeth.
You may also find that your cheeks and tongue become irritated by the brace and you get an ulcer or two. Again this is a normal part of the process but does not happen to everyone, one of our nurses will advise you on how to deal with the discomfort when you come to see us.
It all depends on the individual as well as the type of treatment you have. For example some of our patients being treated with clear aligners notice a slight lisp at the start of treatment, on average it takes a few weeks for the speech to return to normal. Whereas the majority of our patients that have ‘traditional’ braces notice no change in their speech at all.