How long can orthodontic treatment be delayed for financial reasons?

Indefinitely: Orthodontic treatment can be delayed indefinitely. Orthodontic treatment can be started at any time in a person's life assuming they have good oral health. As one of my dental school professors said, no one "needs" braces. No one ever died from crooked teeth.

Braces: Braces are an elective treatment. If you can't afford the treatment, it's best to have the braces removed and start again once you can afford it.

It depends: Timely orthodontic treatment in a growing patient will allow growth to assist in improving the bite. Conversely, there are those for whom delay is fine because there are alignment issues only and/or the bite is not too far from ideal. Many other factors will affect timing, such as whether there are missing teeth, unerupted, or impacted teeth, etc, so it is best to consult an orthodontist.

Forever: Work out a payment plan if you really want to help yourself.

Depends: With an adult...Time doesn't matter. When children are treated, sometimes we utilize their growth spurt (11-14 years of age) to help treatment along.

Forever: Last i checked, no one has ever increased their mortality due to not having orthodontic treatment. There are some types of malocclusions that are best treated while the patient is going through their major growth period of development. However, many adults seek and receive successful orthodontic treatment.

Forever, but....: If you are already in braces, your orthodontist cannot legally or ethically delay or slow down your treatment for failure to pay. Treatment and finances are separate issues. An orthodontist cannot hold a patient hostage. If you fall behind on payments, don't be afraid to speak with the doctor or staff. I'm sure they will be more than happy to work with you.

Depends: se malocclusions are stable, others deteriorate rapidly. See an Orthodpntic Specialist. After Initial Examination the Specialist can answer that question as it applies to you. Orthodontists also have creative payment plans available.

You're never too old: However, the disadvantage of waiting is facing the possibility of a compromised result that may not be stable. You may be pleasantly surprised to find that orthodontic treatment is affordable Discuss with your orthodontist payment options.

Indefinitely: usually treatment can be incorporated into you schedule unless there is harm or damage happening to your teeth or supporting tissues