When it comes to achieving a healthy smile with straight teeth, braces and retainers are two of the most common orthodontic tools. Additionally, Invisalign clear aligners have gained popularity in recent years, since they are less noticeable in the mouth but, in most cases, just as effective as traditional braces. But how long do orthodontic treatments take? In this article, we answer this question and discuss three primary orthodontic methods.
How Long Do Orthodontic Treatments Take?
An orthodontic treatment typically takes 6 to 24 months, with most cases lasting about 18 months. The length of your treatment will depend on the complexity of the case, the severity of the issues, and how well you follow your dentist’s recommendations. Severe crowding or bite issues can take longer to correct, while minor misalignments may be resolved more quickly. Patient age also plays a role, as children’s teeth tend to move faster than adult teeth.
An Orthodontic Treatment with Braces
Traditional braces are an effective and reliable method for treating a wide range of issues, including severe crowding and bite alignment problems. As we mentioned before, on average, an orthodontic treatment with traditional braces takes around 18 months.
To ensure your orthodontic treatment with braces proceeds as planned and does not exceed the predicted timeline, you must attend all appointments with your dentist. During these appointments, your dentist will make necessary adjustments to the braces to advance the treatment.
An Orthodontic Treatment with Invisalign
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, can be used to treat mild to moderate misalignment of teeth and the bite. However, this method may be less effective for severe misalignment, in which case your doctor is likely to recommend traditional braces instead.
An orthodontic treatment with Invisalign typically takes the same amount of time as with traditional braces, provided that similar issues are being treated. However, this is only the case if you wear your Invisalign trays consistently.
It is recommended to wear clear aligners for at least 22 hours a day, removing them only to eat and for oral hygiene. If you do not adhere to these guidelines, the teeth might start shifting back to their original positions, and the treatment will be prolonged and require additional expenditures for additional trays to put the treatment back on track.
An Orthodontic Treatment with Retainers
Retainers are often used in orthodontics for kids when the tooth misalignment is mild, there are no major bite issues, and treatment is started early. Retainers apply very light forces, which are usually not strong or precise enough for moderate or complex corrections.
Adults can sometimes be treated with retainers if the issues are minor. Still, retainers are most often used to preserve the results of prior orthodontic treatment with traditional braces or clear aligners. Wearing your retainer consistently after the main treatment is complete is essential, as adult teeth tend to shift into their original positions.
When a retainer is used to maintain the results of orthodontic treatment, it is recommended to wear it full-time for 3 to 6 months, then every night for several years, or sometimes indefinitely.
Get an Orthodontic Treatment at Santa Ana Magic Smile
Schedule a consultation with an experienced orthodontic dentist at Santa Ana Magic Smile to determine how long your treatment will take and which appliances are best suited to your case. We are looking forward to your visit.
