Isn't it time to get them off?

Question

Hey everyone! I've had braces for over 2 1/2 years now. My orthodontist told me at the beginning it would take 2 years. It's now almost 3 years and my orthodontist keeps prolonging the treatment. I feel this is unnecessary since my teeth are perfect (no spaces/gaps, gums healthy, etc.) and he keeps telling me to wear these rubber bands (which btw have worked in straightening my teeth and now are completely useless). So what do I do?! It's taking FOREVER! AHHHHH!

Sincerely,

Frustrated

Answer 1

Hi,

Yes it is frustrating, I've been through it too but not quite that long. Did your orthodonist meantion that a very slim bar could be put behind your two front and back teeth where nothing shows. This bar can be in as long as you are willing to have them in, and it keeps them straight as can be.

Did he mention a retainer, I liked mine as anything is better than braces.

Just remember it's you mouth. You should be told alternatives to braces, he's getting paid a lot of money. I would also ask why it's taking almost 3 years and it was suppose to be for 2 years. I had to request for my braces to be taken off also and at 40 I am still glad I did it. Good Luck and enjoy those beautiful teeth! :)

Answer 2

I would just voice your concern to your orthodontist. None of us can say if you should keep them on or get them off, because only an orthodontist who knows your history can appropriately do that. I know a lot of people who have had them on longer (myself included) than the estimated time, and it's not necessarily that the doctor wants $$. Ask you doctor to explain what's going on, as there could be a good reason. Good luck!!

Answer 3

ive never had braces before but two of my friends have, one had only a small gap between her two front teeth so hers were removed real soon, another had them for about 3 years because her teeth were all over the place, she even had to keep them in longer to assure they would stay in place, and not spred out again.i guess depending on how bad they were to begin with. good luck!

Answer 4

Yeah, chances are your orthodontist just like charging you money for turning up. 3 years will do it for 99% of people. And if your teeth are perfect, then maybe thank him and tell him you're very happy but aren't coming back.

Answer 5

I had that situation. I would tell her, "I really think I should get my braces off." I mean every treatment costs you more money! I would say, "You said 2 and it's 3 years." I would also get a opinion by another doctor.

Answer 6

Honestly just wait it out while your teeth may be straight now they may not be ready for the braces to come off because they could seperate. I`m sure your dentist knows what he is doing and the wait will be well worth while.

Answer 7

the problem is that they give poor estimates. If it was going to take 4 years and you got them off in 3 you'd be happy but if they told you 2 and it was 3 you aren't.

It's always longer than they tell you it will be.

free cyberhug though

Answer 8

See another orthodontist. Tell the receptionist your dilemma and I'm sure they would take it over. Never go to a doctor you can't trust.

Answer 9

this happened to me.. he told me i'd have them for half a year, but it ended up four years. This was beause he put them on too early. I didn't lose teeth fast enough so he had to wait before he could straighten THOSE. this may be the case for you. get a second opinion or talk to him about it.

Answer 10

Dear Frustrated,
you should ask your orthodontist why you can't get your braces off. Ore you could ask your mom or dad that you are frustrated that you aren't getting them off and that is what you should do. Just ask questions!!