Orthodontic treatment options are much more diverse than they used to be. You don’t have to suffer through clunky, noticeable brackets anymore. One popular option is 6-month braces, an expedited orthodontic treatment for minor bite and alignment issues. The brackets are clear and less noticeable than traditional braces. They’re also more affordable than Invisalign.
So, if it’s possible to get straight teeth in six months for less of an investment, why doesn’t everybody choose 6-month braces? One significant reason is that they aren’t right for everyone.
You Should Have Good Oral Health
As with any orthodontic treatment, you need good oral health to get started. While braces are a necessary treatment for your long-term dental health, they can be hard on the roots and enamel of your teeth. If you already have damaged gums or weak teeth, orthodontic treatment could endanger your oral health or prove ineffective.
How Do I Know I Have Good Oral Health?
The best way to determine if your teeth and gums are ready for braces is to see your dentist. They can perform an exam to determine if you have any hidden cavities, gum recession, or enamel loss that needs to be addressed before you get braces.
Before your appointment, here are some signs that can give you a baseline idea of how healthy your teeth and gums are:
- Your gums should be firm and pink
- Your gums shouldn’t bleed when you brush or floss
- Your teeth shouldn’t have cracks, cavities, or deep, set-in stains
You Shouldn’t Have Serious Bite or Alignment Issues
Unfortunately, 6-month braces aren’t meant to correct significant orthodontic issues. As the brackets only go on the front 6 teeth, they can’t perform major corrections like a whole set of braces can. This form of treatment should be limited to:
- Slight overcrowding
- Slight spacing issues
- Slight overbites or underbites
Older Teenagers Tend to Be Better Candidates Than Adults
Any form of orthodontic correction will work faster on kids and teenagers. As their teeth are still growing, they are easier to guide into the correct position. Adult teeth are much more stubborn and hesitant to do what they’re told.
Six-month braces in particular are great for older teenagers who feel that they “missed the bus” on colored brackets being cool. While we as orthodontists think braces look great, teenagers often feel they will face stigma and bullying if they wear braces in their later teenage years. If this is a fear of yours, or if your child is hesitant about braces, 6-month braces are a more discreet option.
See if 6-Month Braces Are Right for You
You have a lot of options for Philadelphia dentistry, so why choose us? At Mayfair Family Dentistry, we offer a suite of dental, orthodontic, and cosmetic options that cater to every member of your family, no matter their age. It can be a pain to visit a separate dentist for everything related to your teeth. Why not have it all done in one place by someone who knows your history, needs, and preferences?
To assess your eligibility for 6-month braces or to make another appointment, call 215-929-7022 today.
