If you are taking orthodontic treatment, one question will definitely arise in your mind: How long does orthodontic treatment take? No matter whether you choose braces or Invisalign, the duration of treatment is a common concern. The answer is not the same for everyone, as it depends on various factors such as the severity of your dental issues, the type of treatment chosen, and your personal response to the treatment.
In this article, I will discuss the orthodontic treatment timeline, from start to finish, so you can have a better idea of what to expect. After knowing the time frame for orthodontics, you will be prepared mentally and physically for the journey ahead.
What Factors Influence the Duration of Orthodontic Treatment?
The duration of orthodontic treatment is different for different patients. Several factors play a role in determining how long it will take to straighten your teeth. Let us highlight the major ones:
1st Factor: Severity of the Dental Issue
The main factor in deciding how long you will need braces or Invisalign is the severity of your dental problems. If you have a simple misalignment or minor crowding, the treatment typically takes less time, usually around 12 to 18 months. But more complex cases, such as severe overcrowding, bite issues, or jaw problems, need a more extended period of up to 24 months or even more.
2nd Factor: Type of Treatment
Another major factor that affects the duration of teeth straightening duration is the type of orthodontic treatment you choose. Braces and Invisalign are the two most common options, and each has its own timeline.
- Braces Timeline Guide: Traditional metal braces take more time to straighten teeth compared to Invisalign. On average, the average time for braces is anywhere between 18 to 24 months. The wires and brackets work by applying constant pressure to move your teeth into their proper positions. You can also use braces for more complex dental issues.
- Invisalign Treatment Time: Invisalign treatment time is generally shorter, with most patients completing their treatment in 12 to 18 months. However, this depends on the complexity of the case. Invisalign is typically used for mild to moderate dental issues. Its clear aligners are a popular choice if you seek a more discreet treatment option. Always remember to wear the aligners as instructed for the best results.
3rd Factor: Age and Growth
Age matters a lot in the orthodontic treatment process. For children and teenagers whose bones are still growing, the alignment process is faster and easier. For adults, treatment requires more time because their bones have stopped growing. However, adults can still achieve excellent results with braces or Invisalign according to the instructions of the orthodontists.
4th Factor: Oral Hygiene and Compliance
You must maintain good oral hygiene throughout your treatment. If you don’t keep your teeth and braces or aligners clean, various complications occur that may prolong the duration of orthodontic treatment. You should also focus on regular visits to your orthodontist and follow the treatment plan.
For example, with Invisalign, you must wear the aligners for at least 20-22 hours per day to get the desired results on time.
Braces Treatment Timeline
Before you get the traditional braces, make sure to know all the general steps involved and what the orthodontic treatment timeline looks like.
Step 1: Initial Consultation
The first step in getting braces is to consult with your orthodontist. In this visit, the orthodontist asks about medical history, examines your teeth, takes X-rays, and discusses your treatment options. After it, they will make a treatment plan based on your dental needs. This phase takes about 1 to 2 hours.
Step 2: Getting Braces Put On
When you are completely ready to go with braces, your orthodontist will schedule another appointment to put the braces on your teeth. It also takes about 1 to 2 hours. This step may give you some discomfort afterwards as your teeth begin to adjust to the brackets and wires.
Step 3: Regular Adjustments
With the passage of time, you will visit your orthodontist every 4 to 6 weeks for regular adjustments. These visits involve tightening the wires and making any necessary changes to the brackets. Such visits last 20 to 30 minutes. Over time, you will notice your teeth gradually shifting into place.
Step 4: Removal of Braces
The last phase is when the orthodontist removes the braces. Being the completion of treatment, this is an exciting moment. Your braces will be removed in around 1 hour. After that, your orthodontist will fit you with a retainer so that your teeth don’t shift back to their original positions.
Invisalign Treatment Timeline
If you choose Invisalign, the treatment process is similar, but with some more visits to the orthodontist. The Invisalign treatment consists of the following steps:
Step 1: Initial Consultation
Like braces, the first step here is to visit your orthodontist to consult about every aspect. During this visit, the orthodontist will take 3D images of your teeth and create a custom treatment plan accordingly. This is typically a quicker process than that for braces.
Step 2: Receiving Your Aligners
When your aligners are ready, you will get them at a follow-up appointment. The orthodontist will also give you instructions on how to wear and care for your aligners. It usually requires a new set of aligners every 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the plan your orthodontist has designed for you.
Step 3: Wearing Aligners
In the complete treatment, you will wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day. Your orthodontist will say to see you every 6 to 8 weeks so that they may check on your progress and give you your new aligners. The time of this phase changes based on how long your teeth need to move.
Step 4: Getting Retainers
This final phase is important. Once your treatment is complete, your orthodontist will give you a retainer to ensure that your teeth stay in their new positions and do not go back to their previous positions.
Why Choose DKO Smiles?
DKO Smiles focuses on giving each patient care that fits their needs, using modern technology and expert knowledge. We are proud of our history, skilled and certified doctors, friendly team, and new ways of improving treatment. We make sure every patient gets care from start to finish with kindness and dedication, and offer services for all ages.
Final Thoughts!
Now, you completely know the ins and outs of the orthodontic treatment timeline and can make a wise decision about your dental care. For braces or Invisalign, it is necessary to follow your orthodontist’s instructions closely and maintain good oral hygiene. We have guided you about the duration of orthodontic treatment and its factors. You will be rewarded with a beautiful smile if you are patient.
To take the first step towards a straighter smile, schedule a consultation with a reliable clinic today. Their experts will help you through the process and answer any questions you may have. Don’t waste your time and move towards a healthier, more confident smile now.