For most people, braces need to be worn for one to three years to fully align teeth and correct bite issues. The length of braces treatment varies based on individual cases. Some patients with mild cases may finish in as little as 12 months, while those with severe misalignment might need up to 36 months or more.
The length of treatment depends on a few key factors:
● The severity of your misalignment: If your teeth only need minor adjustments, your treatment will be much shorter than someone with significant crowding or an overbite.
● Your age: Younger patients—especially children and teenagers—tend to have faster results because their jaws are still growing and their teeth move more easily. Adults, on the other hand, often have to wear braces longer.
● How well you follow your orthodontist’s instructions: Your treatment will take longer if you break brackets, miss appointments, or don’t wear your rubber bands as directed.
Every orthodontic case is different, but if you’re committed to the process and follow your orthodontist’s advice, you’ll be able to complete treatment as quickly as possible.
Overview of Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment is a comprehensive process designed to straighten teeth and align the jaw, ultimately enhancing your smile’s appearance and function. This treatment typically involves wearing braces or clear aligners for a specified period, followed by using retainers to maintain the achieved results. Orthodontic treatment can address a variety of dental issues, including crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, and gaps between teeth. The primary goal is to create a healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing smile that can last a lifetime. Whether you’re wearing braces or clear aligners, the journey to a perfect smile is well worth the effort.
How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment with Braces Take for Specific Issues?
Your treatment length also depends on what you’re trying to fix. Here’s a general idea of how long different orthodontic issues take to correct:
● Overbite correction: Fixing an overbite with braces usually takes 18 to 30 months.
● Straightening crooked teeth: If your teeth are slightly crooked, you may only need 12 to 24 months of treatment. More severe cases can take longer. Fixed retainers are often placed on the bottom teeth to maintain alignment after treatment.
● Closing a gap between teeth: Small gaps can close within a few months, but full treatment typically lasts 1 to 2 years.
● Braces before jaw surgery: If your orthodontist recommends corrective jaw surgery, you’ll likely need braces for 12 to 18 months before surgery to properly position your teeth, and an extra 6 to 9 months after surgery to finish the final detailed movements and make sure your bite is stable.
How Long Do You Have to Wear Rubber Bands with Braces?
At some point during your orthodontic treatment, your orthodontist may ask you to wear rubber bands (elastics) to correct your bite. These bands help shift your teeth and jaw into the right position.
Most people wear rubber bands for a few months, but in more severe cases, they may need to be worn for over a year. The key to finishing this phase as quickly as possible is consistency—wearing them exactly as instructed. If you don’t, your treatment could take longer.
How Long Do You Have to Wear an Expander Before Braces?
Some patients, particularly children, need a palatal expander before getting braces. An expander helps widen the upper jaw, making room for crowded teeth and correcting bite issues.
Expanders are usually worn for about six months to a year. While they may feel strange at first, they are an important step in creating enough space for straight, healthy teeth. Expanders and braces can be used at the same time; once the expander is removed the treatment will continue with braces.
How Long Do You Have to Continue Wearing a Retainer After Braces?
Finally, once your braces come off, you’ll enter the retainer phase of treatment. Many people assume that once their braces are removed, their teeth will stay in place forever—but that’s not the case. Without a retainer, your teeth will gradually shift back to their original positions. A permanent retainer, bonded to the back of your teeth, can help maintain their position. Wearing a removable retainer as directed is crucial to ensure effectiveness. Additionally, retainer wires in permanent bonded retainers play a significant role in maintaining teeth alignment.
Bonded retainers are fixed devices attached to the teeth following orthodontic treatment to prevent shifting. Maintaining oral hygiene around bonded retainers is essential, as they require specific cleaning techniques to prevent plaque buildup. Many hygienists do not like or recommend fixed retainers.
So, how long do you need to wear a retainer?
- For the first 3 months, you’ll need to wear your retainer full-time, taking it out only to eat or brush your teeth.
- After 3 months, most people can switch to nighttime-only wear, but they still need to wear it every night indefinitely. Clear plastic retainers are popular for their invisibility and ease of use. Fixed retainers may also offer long-term stability. Fixed retainers alone are not a good option, since a tooth may come unglued from the wire and the patient will usually notice when is already too late.
- Your orthodontist will recommend a retainer schedule based on your specific needs for best results. Some people may need to wear theirs every night for life, while others can gradually reduce wear over time. Wearing a retainer forever is often recommended to prevent teeth from shifting.
- Hawley retainers are removable orthodontic appliances made of acrylic and metal wire. They offer a custom fit and are easy to use; they should be removed for eating and dental hygiene.
Retainer Care and Maintenance
Proper care and maintenance of your retainers are crucial to ensuring they last as long as possible and continue to effectively maintain the results of your orthodontic treatment. Here are some essential tips for caring for your retainers:
- Clean your retainers regularly: Use soap and water to prevent bacteria and plaque buildup. Avoid using hot water, or any chemical product as it can warp or damage the retainer.
- Store your retainers in a protective case: When not in use, keep your retainers in a retainer case to prevent damage and loss.
- Avoid extreme temperatures: Do not leave your retainers in a hot car or wash them in hot water, as this can cause them to deform.
- Handle with care: Avoid bending or flexing your retainers excessively to prevent damage.
- Inspect regularly: Check your retainers for signs of wear and tear and replace them as needed.
- Keep them away from your pets: Since the retainers will absorb your scent, your pet will think they are the perfect toy, and will damage them.
By following these tips, you can extend the life of your retainers and ensure they continue to provide the best possible results, keeping your smile straight and healthy.
The Importance of Following Orthodontic Treatment Instructions
Adhering to the instructions provided by your orthodontist is essential for the success of your orthodontic treatment. This includes wearing your retainers as directed, attending follow-up appointments, and maintaining good oral hygiene. Failure to follow these instructions can lead to several issues, such as:
- Tooth movement: If you don’t wear your retainers as directed, your teeth may begin to shift back to their original positions, undoing the progress made during treatment.
- Relapse: Not wearing your retainers for the recommended amount of time can result in relapse, potentially requiring additional treatment to correct.
- Damage to teeth and gums: Poor oral hygiene and failure to wear retainers as directed can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues.
By diligently following your orthodontist’s instructions, you can ensure the best possible results from your orthodontic treatment and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.
Final Thoughts
The length of your orthodontic treatment depends on your unique smile. While most people wear braces for one to three years, factors like your specific dental issue, your age, and your commitment to the process all affect how long it takes. After braces, wearing a retainer is just as important—without it, your teeth could shift back.
If you’re considering braces or want to ensure you’re on the fastest track to a straight smile, Enjoy Orthodontics is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get a personalized treatment plan designed just for you!
