Braces are one of those things that’s either dreaded or they’re the cause for an exciting day. No matter which type you are, the smile you’ll gain from getting braces is well worth the work and patience. There is more than one option as far as braces go these days. Depending on the type you choose will determine the length of time it takes to get the braces on.

Traditional Braces

Traditional braces are those small, metal brackets that are cemented to your teeth with a single metal wire connecting each bracket. Sometimes, small rubber bands are used during the process of these braces in order to make smaller adjustments as needed. You will have a few appointments in order to get set up with these braces. These appointments prepare you and your professional for the big day including setting up payments, a facial profile, X-rays, etc.

Once the big day comes for you to actually get the braces put on, it will all go by much quicker than you think it will. Most professionals know how to keep you distracted which helps the time slip by without you really noticing. The entire process can take 1-2 hours. Time varies between professionals and their team. Some offices are busier than others, so you may have to wait for a small bit in between each step.

When you get your braces off, it takes about the same amount of time, 1-2 hours. What’s really nice is that most offices will present you with a treat once the braces come off. I saw an office once that gave a small tub that was full of all the things that couldn’t be eaten while the braces were on. It definitely was a nice gift to look forward to. Of course, not all places do this but, they still make the day an exciting one and everyone is just as excited as you are to see that new smile.

Invisalign

Another popular form of braces are clear braces, otherwise known as Invisalign. This option was first released to the public back in the earl 2000’s and quickly became popular. It’s a great alternative to traditional braces because it’s clear and therefore, not noticeable. Plus, Invisalign can be removed, unlike traditional braces.

Getting Invisalign on can take a little longer as it’s not just a one-day procedure like traditional braces. Once the consultation has been completed and Invisalign has been decided on, along with all the other steps, a dental impression is taken. Once the dental impression is taken, it can take up to four weeks for the trays to be ready. Once they arrive, you go back to your dental professional who will make sure they fill correctly. Thankfully, the procedure for these being put on is a simple slip onto the teeth. No long procedure, just a little bit of a weight. The wait is worth it to have an option like Invisalign.