How long do braces usually last?

Braces are a common tool in orthodontics. They are very effective in correcting crooked teeth or teeth that are moving in and out. Braces are usually used for a long time. Some may take half a year, while others may take about two years. The duration of use of braces is affected by many factors, such as the method of correction, the degree of tooth deformity, etc.

How long do braces usually last?

1. It is related to the degree of tooth deformity: Before the dentist corrects your teeth, he or she must take an X-ray to see the degree of your tooth deformity. The time it takes to restore your teeth to their original shape will be different for different degrees. If it is mild, it may only take half a year, but if the teeth are severely deformed, it may take 2 years.

2. Related to the correction method: There are many methods of tooth correction. The current methods of tooth correction include wire braces correction, invisible braces correction, and cosmetic crown braces correction. Dentists will choose different methods for these three methods, and of course the correction time is also different.

3. It is related to the hospital you choose: There are many hospitals that can perform orthodontic treatment now, but the technical levels of doctors in different hospitals are different, and the plans they formulate are definitely different, so the correction time is also different.

What types of braces are there?

Braces are mainly classified according to the materials and craftsmanship used in their production. The following are several commonly used clinical methods.

(1) Cast metal crown.

It is mainly used for back teeth, especially for teeth with severe tooth defects and short crowns. However, it is not suitable for patients who are allergic to metal materials; metals may affect certain imaging examinations (magnetic resonance imaging). The main materials used clinically are: gold alloy (excellent performance and good biocompatibility); cobalt-chromium alloy (high hardness and low price).

(2) Porcelain fused to metal crown.

This is what we commonly call "porcelain teeth". It has a wide range of applications and combines the strength of metal and the beauty of porcelain crowns. Compared with metal crowns, more tooth is removed.

(3) All-ceramic crown.

It has excellent aesthetic properties and is most similar to natural teeth; compared to metal, it has better biocompatibility and more stable chemical properties. However, ceramics are weaker than metals, require more teeth to be removed, and place higher demands on doctors. Clinically, the main ones are: glass ceramics (good light transmittance and outstanding aesthetic properties) and zirconia ceramics (high strength and relatively high price).