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You’ve been counting down the days until you finally get your braces removed! You arrive at your orthodontist’s office and wait for the good news. However, that’s not the news you end up receiving. Your orthodontist tells you you’re going to need to keep your braces on for a little longer. Here are five possible reasons your braces are still on.
1. Your Unique Treatment Plan
Your orthodontist has adapted a treatment plan specifically for your unique situation. Since we’re all different, what works for one patient may not work for you. Some patients may not need braces for as long because their treatment plan is accomplished more quickly based on their specific issues. Once your orthodontist evaluates you, a treatment plan will be designed to achieve the best results for you.
2. How Your Teeth React
You can’t control how your teeth react to treatment. Some patients see results sooner than others. This has to do with your body’s biological makeup and how complex your orthodontic issues are. If your orthodontist is not seeing the results expected, they may tweak your treatment plan accordingly.
3. Not Following the Rules
Skipping appointments or not wearing your appliances properly can impact the outcome of your treatment. Since braces work by gradually guiding the teeth into their desired positions through continuous pressure, skipping appointments can slow your progress. Be sure to listen to your orthodontist and follow their guidance.
4. Oral Hygiene Issues
Oral hygiene is important all of the time, and with braces, it can vastly impact how your treatment progresses. Improper oral hygiene can cause a wide array of issues, so be sure to brush your teeth at least twice each day (and after meals if possible) and floss regularly.
5. Not Being Careful
It is always recommended that if you play sports, a mouthguard be worn so damage to your braces or other injuries doesn’t occur. Broken brackets, wires, or appliances can create delays in your treatment plan. Injuries to your teeth can also set you back in your treatment plan, so be sure to protect your teeth, especially if you’re involved in contact sports.
Keys to Success
You can’t control all of the factors that influence how long your braces will be on, but you can control some of them. Keep these helpful tips in mind to keep your treatment plan moving along smoothly:
- Maintain your scheduled orthodontist appointments
- Be on time to all appointments so adjustments to your braces can be properly made
- Follow your orthodontist’s instructions about how to protect your braces and avoid certain foods that can damage them
- Take proper care of your teeth
By following these simple tips, you’ll be on your way to achieving a beautiful smile. Stick to your orthodontist’s treatment plan for you and you’ll be hearing the good news in no time.
For more information, or to schedule a free initial exam, please call our office at (843) 4-BRACES.
