Thinking about getting braces? The results are often spectacular, aligning your smile and jaw to reduce bite issues, increase aesthetics, and keep your smile healthy longer. But how long does it take to see the results? The answer depends on a few key factors, including your age, the complexity of your case, and the type of braces you choose. If you’re curious how the timeline breaks down, continue reading.
What’s the Average Treatment Time for Braces?
Most people wear braces anywhere from 6 to 36 months. That may seem like a pretty wide range, but it’s because no two smiles are the same. For example, mild alignment issues like slight crowding or small gaps can be treated in 6 to 12 months, while moderate cases (crooked teeth or mild bite issues) typically take around 12 to 24.
In the most severe cases, where jaw alignment needs to be corrected and several teeth require complex movements, the timeline is closer to 24 to 36 months.
What Factors Affect the Braces Timeline?
Several things can influence how long your treatment time takes, such as:
- Age: Younger teeth move faster because the jaw is still developing.
- Complexity: Bigger, broader problems often need more time to correct.
- Type of Braces: Traditional metal braces, ceramic options, and clear aligners like Invisalign can all come with slightly different timelines.
- Compliance: Missed appointments and slow responses to broken brackets can slow your treatment down considerably.
How Long Does It Take to Start Seeing Results?
Believe it or not, many patients start noticing changes within just a few months. Your teeth actually begin to shift subtly early on, and progress becomes more visible as time goes on. While you may not have the visionary smile you desire, by your six-month check-in, you’ll likely see a noticeable difference!
Don’t Give Up, It’s Worth It!
The road to a straighter smile takes time, but the results are more than worth it! A properly aligned bite improves your appearance, boosts confidence, and supports long-term dental health by making oral hygiene easier.
Whether you’ve already begun your orthodontic treatment or you’re ready to take the plunge, knowing the timeline can help temper your expectations. If you want a more accurate picture of your case, talk to your orthodontist. They can give you a clear picture of how long you’ll need to wait based on your treatment plan.
About the Author
Dr. Bradley Buchwald is a skilled, board-certified orthodontist with a doctorate from the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine. He works diligently to provide every patient with exceptional orthodontic care, including traditional metal braces and clear options. If you’re ready to finally straighten your smile, call (972) 377-5940 to schedule a consultation at Buchwald Orthodontics Frisco. Alternatively, you can visit our website to learn more.