How Long Do Braces Take?
Braces are a common orthodontic treatment many people use to achieve a straighter, healthier smile. One of the most frequently asked questions by those considering braces is, “How long do braces take?” While the duration of orthodontic treatment varies from person to person, this page will serve as a guide to understand the factors that influence the duration of your braces journey and what you can expect along the way.
Individual Factors Affecting How Long Your Braces Will Take
How long do braces take? The time it takes to complete orthodontic treatment with braces will vary depending on individual factors:
Severity of the Issue
The complexity of your dental issue plays a crucial role. Mild misalignments may take less time, while more severe cases require a longer treatment period.
Patient’s Age
Adolescents typically experience faster results due to their continually growing bones, while adults may require a longer treatment duration.
Compliance
How well you adhere to your orthodontist’s instructions and care for your braces can significantly affect your treatment time. Attending scheduled orthodontic appointments is critical for monitoring your progress and making necessary adjustments. Missing appointments or delaying adjustments can extend your treatment time.
Another key factor is the retention phase. After your braces are removed, it’s crucial to wear your orthodontic retainer as directed to ensure your newly aligned smile is maintained. Following your orthodontist’s instructions diligently can help you achieve your desired results for a lifetime, rather than just the first few years. We only want you to have to wear braces once!
Type of Braces
Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces are the most common treatment and often offer quicker results due to their effectiveness in addressing various dental issues.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces work similarly to traditional metal braces but blend in with your teeth more seamlessly. Treatment duration is comparable to metal braces, but may take a little longer.
Invisalign®
Invisalign aligners are removable and are ideal for less complex misalignment cases. The timeline for clear aligners is similar to braces.
Which Type of Braces Are Right for You?
Your orthodontic goals can influence treatment duration. If you’re aiming for minor cosmetic improvements, treatment may be shorter. However, if you have more complex issues, such as correcting your bite, it may take longer to achieve a stable and functional result. Therefore, to know which braces are best for you, we recommend discussing your unique circumstances with an orthodontist. Contact us today to make an appointment.
On Average, How Long Do Braces Take?
For patients with minor misalignments, it’s possible to complete treatment in 12 months or less. However, 18 months is a much more common treatment period. At Jones Orthodontics, we are pleased to provide an average treatment time of only 16 months!
Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Jones
The duration of braces treatment varies widely based on individual factors, your goals, type of braces, and patient compliance. Therefore, if at your orthodontic consultation you ask, “How long do braces take?”, your orthodontist will assess your case and give you an estimate based on the average time for braces in cases similar to yours.
If you have any further questions about the braces timeline or otherwise, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at Jones Orthodontics for guidance and support.
Ready to schedule your appointment in Chapel Hill, Durham, or Hillsborough, North Carolina? Contact us today to get started.