Braces treatment are a common solution for straightening teeth and improving your bite. If you’re thinking about getting braces, you probably want to know one thing: How long will I have to wear them?
The simple answer is—it depends. Treatment times vary for each person. On average, most people wear braces for 12 to 24 months, but your exact time can be shorter or longer.
Let’s break down what affects treatment time and how you can help speed things up.
What Affects How Long I’ll Wear Braces?
1. Your Dental Needs
Everyone’s teeth are different. If your teeth are only slightly crooked, you may only need braces for 6 to 12 months. However, if you have a more complicated case—like an overbite, underbite, or crowded teeth—you may need to wear them for up to 2 or even 3 years.
Also, if you have more than one dental issue, your treatment could take longer. Your orthodontist will explain the expected time based on what needs fixing.
What is a Good Age to Get Braces?
2. The Type of Braces You Choose
Different types of braces work in slightly different ways:
- Metal Braces: These are the traditional kind and often used for complex cases. They usually take between 18 to 36 months.
- Clear Braces (Ceramic): These work like metal braces but are less noticeable. Treatment time is usually the same.
- Self-Ligating Braces: These use special clips instead of rubber bands. They can reduce treatment time and may be more comfortable.
- Clear Aligners (like Invisalign): These are removable trays. For mild cases, they can work in 6 to 18 months, but they must be worn for 20–22 hours a day to stay on track.
- Lingual Braces: These sit behind your teeth. They are discreet, but may take a bit longer to work than front-facing options.
3. Your Age
Braces work well at any age. However, younger patients often see faster results. This is because a child’s jaw is still growing, making it easier to move the teeth.
Adults can get great results too, but treatment might take a bit longer. Don’t worry—your orthodontist will create a plan that suits your needs.
Can I Shorten My Braces Treatment Time?
Yes! Your actions can make a big difference. Here’s how to help your braces work faster:
1. Follow Instructions
Wear your elastics or removable aligners exactly as told. Missing days or not following the plan can delay your treatment.
2. Take Care of Your Braces
Avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods. These can break your brackets or wires. Damaged braces often mean extra visits and more time in treatment.
3. Keep Up with Hygiene
Brush and floss properly every day. Clean teeth help braces work better. If you get a cavity or gum problem, it may pause your orthodontic progress.
4. Don’t Miss Appointments
Your orthodontist checks and adjusts your braces regularly. Skipping visits can set you back weeks or even months.
What Happens After Braces Come Off?
Wearing braces is just one part of the process. Once they’re removed, your teeth can still shift.
That’s why you’ll need to wear a retainer. This keeps your teeth in their new position. Some retainers are removable and worn at night, while others are fixed behind your teeth.
Your orthodontist will explain how long you’ll need to wear your retainer, which is usually for several months or more.
Why Treatment Time Varies
Here’s a quick summary of what affects how long you wear braces:
| Factor | Impact on Treatment Time |
|---|---|
| Dental issue severity | Mild = shorter, Complex = longer |
| Braces type | Aligners may be quicker for simple cases |
| Age | Younger patients often finish faster |
| Patient habits | Good hygiene and following rules = shorter time |
| Appointment consistency | Skipping visits = delays |
Final Thoughts
“How long do I have to wear braces?” is one of the most common questions people ask. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, most treatments last between one and three years.
The good news is—you can help speed things up. Look after your teeth, follow instructions, and stick to your appointments. Your future smile will thank you for it!
Book your consultation today!
Book Your Consultation at Visage Orthodontics in Aberdeen
Ready to start your journey towards a straighter smile? At Visage Orthodontics in Aberdeen, we offer tailored orthodontic treatments for children, teens, and adults. Whether you’re considering metal braces, clear aligners, or advanced self-ligating systems, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Book your consultation today to find out how long your treatment will take and discover the best options for your smile. Let’s make your dream smile a reality—comfortably, efficiently, and with care.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the average time for wearing braces?
Most people wear braces for 12 to 24 months, though some may need treatment for up to 3 years. The time depends on how complex your dental issues are, the type of braces used, and how well you follow your orthodontist’s advice.
2. Can braces work faster for children than adults?
Yes. Braces often work faster for children because their jawbones are still growing, making it easier to move teeth. Adults can still achieve excellent results, but treatment may take slightly longer due to mature bone structure and tooth position.
3. What happens if I don’t follow my braces care plan?
Ignoring instructions—like skipping rubber bands or eating forbidden foods—can delay treatment. Broken wires, missed appointments, and poor oral hygiene can all cause extra visits and extend how long you’ll need to wear braces.
4. Can I get my braces off earlier than planned?
Sometimes treatment can finish earlier, especially if you follow all instructions carefully. Using self-ligating braces or newer technologies may also reduce time. However, rushing the process can damage teeth or reverse results, so patience is key.
5. Will I need a retainer after braces?
Yes. After your braces come off, your orthodontist will give you a retainer to keep your teeth in their new position. Wearing your retainer as directed is essential to prevent your teeth from shifting back.
