If you’re trying to choose the best braces, you probably want the fastest type of braces. And you’re not alone! When you decide to straighten your smile, you want to see results quickly.
But deciding on the quickest braces to straighten teeth depends on several factors. Treatment timelines, even for the same braces type, will change based on the patient, their mouth, and the issues that need correcting.
So, how quickly can braces work? And, which type of braces are more effective?
Read on to learn more!
How Quick Can Braces Work?
There’s a lot of debate about the average time a patient will wear braces – even within the orthodontic community. Depending on which dental expert you ask, you’ll hear average treatment times ranging anywhere from 14 and 33 months.
One thing’s pretty clear: It’s usually a lot longer than patients expect!
Finding an orthodontist that’s transparent and realistic about the fastest orthodontic treatment or fastest braces option is key to ensuring success. But at the end of the day, listening to your orthodontist and following their recommendations will ensure that your treatment is effective—regardless of how long it takes.
Factors That Determine the Fastest Braces Option
When we recommend braces, the first thing the patient usually asks is, “How quick can braces work?” Our answer changes based on the person’s needs and several other factors, which we’ll talk more about in a bit.
We think the better question is, “Which type of braces are more effective?” Because, the best braces for you aren’t necessarily the shortest braces treatment, but the ones that effectively meet your needs and goals.
That means, if you want to determine which braces are best, you need to consider three factors that can affect your treatment length.
1. The Severity and Types of Issues You Have
Braces and Invisalign are powerful tools that can fix alignment issues, like:
- Overcrowding
- Gaps
- Crooked teeth
When determining what type of braces work the fastest for you, we first need to consider what types of braces will most effectively correct your problems.
The quickest braces to straighten teeth may not be appropriate for your situation due to more drastic issues. For example, people with severe overcrowding or rotated teeth may not be able to use Invisible aligners to correct the problem.
Additionally, patients may need other treatments before they can even start braces. For example, you might need to get a tooth pulled to give your other teeth more room. Or, you may need to address more pressing oral hygiene issues before you begin orthodontic treatment. While these types of issues may not impact the amount of time you live with braces on your teeth, they will extend your overall treatment time.
2. If You Have a Problematic Bite
Your “bite” is an orthodontist’s way of talking about the way your top and bottom teeth line up.
If your top teeth are further out than your bottom teeth, this is called an “overjet” (the most common type of bite issue). Other common bite issues include:
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Crossbites
- Open bites
- Deep bites
Some of these bites may also require the use of additional attachments, like rubber bands.
When determining the fastest orthodontic treatment for you, your dentist will consider the type of bite you have. Some of the shortest braces treatment options on the market aren’t appropriate for patients with certain bite issues.
This can be disappointing if you were hoping for a particular treatment method but remember: the fastest type of braces for you are the ones that get you to your dream smile with the fewest complications and longest-lasting results.
3. Whether You Follow All Directions
All treatment plans rely on your commitment and follow-through.
Each type of alignment process requires a different amount of effort. For example, traditional metal braces with brackets are almost exclusively maintained in the office. However, patients need to commit to:
- Maintaining good oral hygiene
- Attending appointments as requested
- Avoiding certain foods
Like braces, Invisalign also comes with certain recommendations to follow to ensure effective treatment. Some common guidelines to follow include:
- Taking your trays out when eating or drinking (except water)
- Brushing your teeth or rinsing your mouth out before putting trays back in your mouth
- Wearing your trays for the recommended 20-22 hours each day
Whether you have braces or Invisalign, following your orthodontist’s recommendations will ensure that your treatment stays on track. Otherwise, you may have complications that extend the time you’ll be wearing your braces or trays.
Finding the Fastest Type of Braces (or Alignment Method)
Once you understand all the options available to you, you and your orthodontist can choose the shortest braces treatment plan based on your needs.
So, what straightens your teeth faster: invisible aligners or traditional braces?
In most cases (especially simple cases), Invisalign aligners are often the fastest type of braces (though, Invisalign isn’t technically “braces”)!
Fastest Braces Option Overall: Invisalign
Generally speaking, Invisalign is the fastest orthodontic treatment on the market.
Invisalign says most patients should expect to use their aligners for 12 to 18 months. Some patients needing very mild corrections might have even shorter treatment times.
Besides being a fast option, Invisalign also comes with a few added benefits. The aligner trays are clear, making them pretty undetectable. They’re also removable, so you can also eat almost all foods (even ones banned with traditional braces).
But it’s important to follow the guidelines suggested above: removing trays when eating, brushing/rinsing before placing them in your mouth, and wearing them for 20-22 hours each day.
Fastest Braces Option with Brackets: Lightforce
Sometimes, Invisalign simply isn’t an option. Some patients have more complex needs or struggle to remember to put their aligners back on. If this is you, don’t worry! You’ve got options.
Lightforce braces use the power of 3D printing to customize your brackets and make your treatment faster. With this option, you get the power of traditional braces without the long wait times.
At Bates Orthodontics, we offer Lightforce braces for those who want a faster, personalized approach to braces. The brackets are also clear, making this new innovation in orthodontics preferable to many.
The result? A shorter treatment time, perfect fit, and straighter smile—often in less time than with traditional braces.
Your Braces, Your Way
When you’re first starting your braces journey, you might feel intimidated by all the options. How will you know which are the quickest braces to straighten teeth, or which braces are best for your desired smile?
The best way to know which alignment method is best for you is to talk with a trained orthodontist. They’ll consider your unique alignment needs and provide an expert recommendation to ensure your teeth become straight and stay healthy in the shortest time possible.
Ready to talk to a professional today?
At Bates Orthodontics, we strive to be transparent and set realistic expectations so you know exactly how long your treatment will take. It’s not just about finding the fastest braces option or shortest braces treatment, it’s about uncovering which type of braces are more effective to straighten your teeth and give you the confidence you need to flash your new look. If you’re ready to learn about the fastest type of braces for you, there’s no better time than now.
Schedule your free consultation to speak with our orthodontists about what a straighter smile looks like for you.
