When you’re thinking about getting braces, one of the first questions that comes up is: how long do you need braces? While every smile is unique, and the length of treatment can vary, most patients can expect to wear braces for around 24 months. Some cases may take a bit longer, while others could be wrapped up sooner. To help you get a clear picture of what to expect, we’ll break down the main factors that impact treatment timelines and the different phases involved in staying on track to a beautiful, straight smile.
Factors That Affect Treatment Length
The time you’ll need to wear braces largely depends on your personal needs and treatment goals. Several factors can impact the timeline:
- Severity of Misalignment — Minor spacing or alignment issues typically require less time than complex cases involving major crowding, bite issues, or significant gaps.
- Age — Although braces work for patients of any age, younger patients tend to have slightly shorter treatment timelines as their jawbones and teeth are still developing, making them more responsive to orthodontic adjustments.
- Type of Braces — The type of braces you choose — whether traditional metal, clear ceramic, or even Invisalign — can also affect the timeline. While conventional braces are the most reliable for all cases, clear aligners like Invisalign might work faster for mild to moderate corrections.
- Oral Health — Good oral hygiene is essential for a smooth treatment experience. Gum issues or cavities during treatment can slow things down, as your orthodontist may need to pause adjustments until your oral health is back on track.
Typical Timeline for Braces
In most cases, braces treatment generally lasts around 24 months. During this time, your braces will gently apply pressure to your teeth, shifting them into their new positions. However, it’s important to remember that some cases might wrap up in as little as 18 months, while others can take up to 30 months, depending on your progress and treatment needs. Throughout your treatment, regular appointments will ensure your braces are adjusted as needed to keep your teeth moving along on schedule.
Treatment Timeline for Invisalign
If you’re considering Invisalign, the timeline is typically shorter than traditional braces, with an average treatment length of around 12 months. Invisalign treatment uses a series of custom-made, removable aligners that you switch out every two weeks, gradually shifting your teeth. For patients of any age with mild to moderate alignment issues, this streamlined treatment can deliver results in half the time of traditional braces. However, it’s absolutely vital to wear your aligners for at least 22 hours each day to stay on track and avoid extending your timeline.
The Phases of Braces Treatment
The process of wearing braces typically includes a few main phases:
- Initial Phase (First Few Months) — After your braces are put on, the first few months involve initial adjustments where your teeth begin to shift into better alignment. This is often when patients notice the most change in their smile.
- Mid-Phase (6-18 Months) — During the middle of treatment, the focus shifts to fine-tuning alignment, correcting bite issues, and making smaller adjustments to each tooth’s position. Most patients settle into a routine during this period, with adjustments every four to eight weeks.
- Final Phase (Last 6 Months) — As your teeth near their ideal positions, adjustments become more precise, addressing any final details needed to perfect your alignment. This phase is also when you’ll begin preparing for life after braces, including planning for your retainer to maintain your new smile.
Ready to Begin Your Journey With Braces?
If you’re ready to start your journey toward a confident, aligned smile, the team at Stewart Smiles is here to help! We offer personalized treatment plans designed to give you the best results as efficiently as possible. Contact us today to schedule your free exam, and let’s get started on making your dream smile a reality!