How long is the treatment time?
Deciding to get braces can raise many questions. One of the most prominent is how long the treatment will take. Like many other medical procedures, the answer isn't always straightforward, as it depends on several variables.
Factors affecting treatment time:
- Patient age: The age of the patient can significantly impact the duration of treatment. For younger patients, especially teenagers, the process is often faster, as their jaws are still developing, making teeth and jaws more susceptible to movement.
- Complexity of the case: The complexity of the dental issues—along with time consumption and severity of the orthodontic treatment—varies. Therefore, we always recommend that patients consult a specialized orthodontist before considering treatment, regardless of how simple the condition may seem.
- Treatment method: While some modern methods, such as Invisalign, can offer faster results for some, traditional metal braces may be more effective for others. Invisalign treatments can typically be completed within 12 to 18 months, provided that the aligners are worn for the recommended amount of time each day. On the other hand, traditional braces can take anywhere from 18 months to 3 years, depending on the individual patient's needs and the complexity of the issue.
- Patient compliance: The patient's own effort also plays a critical role. Following the orthodontist's instructions, attending regular check-ups, and properly caring for the braces can all contribute to speeding up treatment.
Special considerations for different types of braces
Here are the different treatments we offer, providing an overview of their advantages and disadvantages.
Invisible braces: Many choose invisible braces for their discreet design, as they are placed behind the teeth. Although they offer an aesthetic advantage, the treatment time can often be longer than with traditional braces due to the complexity of adjusting teeth from the back.
Metal braces: These are the most common and well-known type of braces. They consist of metal brackets attached to the teeth with a wire running through them. Treatment time varies based on the individual patient’s needs but typically ranges from 18 months to 3 years. The exact duration depends on how much movement the teeth require and how well the patient follows care instructions.
Invisalign: This is a more modern approach to orthodontics, where the patient receives a series of clear plastic aligners that gradually move the teeth into the desired position. One of the biggest advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are nearly invisible and can be removed while eating and while brushing teeth. Typically, an Invisalign treatment can last from 12 to 18 months, but this varies based on the patient's specific needs.
The extent of your dental alignment issues usually determines how long the treatment will take and which treatment is appropriate. Therefore, it is important to discuss these options with a specialized orthodontist to choose the solution that best fits your needs and preferences.
Sornsiri Sae-Wang
Founder, manager and orthodontist at OrthodonticsCPH with extensive experience in treating children, adolescents and adults.