One of the first questions most patients ask about orthodontic treatment is, “How long does it take?” While every smile is unique, there are some general timelines that can help set realistic expectations. In some cases, advanced systems like FastBraces® may even shorten the process altogether. Here’s everything you need to know about treatment times with braces, and how to make your experience easier.
What Is the Average Treatment Time with Braces?
On average, most people wear braces for 18 to 24 months. However, some patients with minor spacing or crowding may finish in as little as 12 months. Of course, more complex cases can take longer—up to two to three years.
The exact time for your treatment depends on how much movement your teeth need and how your bite needs to be corrected.
That said, some modern systems, like FastBraces, are designed in a way that makes treatment times shorter on average. So, if you qualify, you can take advantage of modern technology to shorten your treatment.
What Can Affect Your Braces Treatment Timeline
There are multiple factors that can influence how long braces take to straighten teeth, such as:
- Your Starting Point: Mild crowding or small gaps take less time than severe misalignments.
- Your Age: Braces work at any age, but younger patients often see faster changes.
- The Type of Bite Problem: Overbites, underbites, and crossbites can require extra time to adjust.
- The Type of Braces: Traditional metal braces, clear braces, and other options, like FastBraces, can all move teeth at different speeds.
- Your Cooperation: Following instructions is one of the biggest factors in staying on schedule. The tighter you keep to it, the faster your results.
How You Can Make Braces Treatment Faster
While you can’t control much about your braces, you can build habits that will make your experience much smoother. Some can actually speed up the process, while others keep you in the right mindset—focused on the prize at the end.
First, show up to all of your check-ins and appointments. These visits are essential to monitoring your progress and making adjustments when necessary. Next, follow all of your dentist’s instructions, especially when it comes to at-home care and appliance wear.
Avoid hard or sticky snacks that can bend or break the brackets and wires of your device or get caught in them to cause cavities. Lastly, practice excellent oral hygiene at home to prevent problems that can put a pause on your treatment.
Braces require patience, but the results are well worth the investment. Whether treatment takes one year or three, the goal is the same—a healthy, beautiful smile that stands the test of time.
About the Author
Dr. Dhavalkumar Rana is a friendly dentist with over 20 years of experience helping patients enjoy healthier smiles. A graduate of New York University, he has advanced training in multiple fields of dentistry and regularly pursues continuing education. Dr. Rana is an active member of the Texas Dental Association and the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry. Call (469) 399-7288 to schedule an orthodontic consultation at TrueCare Dentistry or visit our website to learn more.