How Long Will My Orthodontic Treatment Take?
Dr. Brooks Barefoot, Dr. Kevin Theroux and Dr. Elizabeth Donahue customize every plan to match your unique needs, because no two smiles move at the same pace. They help patients understand what influences treatment time, what to expect with braces or Invisalign, and how to stay on track for the best results.
What Factors Influence Treatment Length
Every smile is different, and so is every orthodontic timeline. The average treatment lasts 12 to 24 months, but some people finish faster while others may need more time. Your orthodontist will evaluate several factors, including:
- Severity of Alignment Issues
Mild crowding or spacing can often be corrected faster than more complex cases involving bite adjustments. - Type of Treatment
Traditional braces and Invisalign both effectively move teeth, but each has its own pace and process. - Age
Younger patients often experience quicker tooth movement because their jaws are still growing and bone tissue is more adaptable. - Patient Compliance
Following instructions is key. Whether it’s wearing aligners for 20–22 hours a day or attending adjustment appointments on time, consistency helps treatment stay efficient. - Biological Response
Everyone’s teeth and bone structure respond differently. Some people’s teeth shift faster, while others need a bit more time for movement to stabilize.
How Long Does Treatment Take with Braces
Braces remain one of the most trusted and effective ways to straighten teeth. They work continuously, applying gentle pressure to guide each tooth into position.
Type of Case | Estimated Time Frame | Notes |
Mild crowding or spacing | 12–18 months | Faster movement with consistent hygiene and visits |
Moderate misalignment | 18–24 months | Most common duration |
Complex bite correction | 24–30 months | May require elastics or special appliances |
At Total Orthodontics, we use advanced technology and digital imaging to plan precise movements, often shortening overall treatment time compared to traditional methods.
What About Invisalign Treatment Time
Invisalign treatment can be just as effective as braces for many cases and typically lasts 12 to 18 months on average. Some mild alignment cases can finish in as little as 6 months, while more complex movements can take longer.
However, Invisalign relies heavily on patient compliance. Aligners must be worn nearly all day and changed according to your orthodontist’s schedule to stay on track.
Tips to stay on schedule with Invisalign:
- Wear aligners for 20–22 hours daily.
- Change aligners on the prescribed date.
- Store aligners properly to avoid damage or delays.
- Keep up with your regular check-ins at Total Orthodontics.
Can Treatment Be Completed Sooner
Sometimes, patients are eager to speed up their results, and that’s understandable. While orthodontic movement can’t be rushed without risking damage, there are safe ways to stay efficient:
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene to prevent delays caused by broken brackets or inflamed gums.
- Avoid missing appointments or rescheduling too often.
- Follow all care and elastic wear instructions exactly as prescribed.
- Eat foods that are safe for orthodontic treatment to protect your braces from damage.
Why Do Some People Need More Time
Certain cases require more careful monitoring, especially if:
- There are jaw alignment issues that need correction.
- You have impacted teeth that take longer to move into position.
- You’ve had missing teeth or prior dental work affecting spacing.
- Your teeth move more slowly due to bone density or health factors.
Your orthodontist will review progress at each visit to ensure movement is healthy and consistent. Adjustments or refinements may extend your timeline slightly, but they help ensure long-term stability and a lasting smile.
How Retainers Affect the Final Stage
Even after braces or Invisalign are complete, your journey isn’t quite over. Retainers help keep your smile stable while your teeth settle into their new positions.
Most patients wear their retainer full-time at first, then transition to nightly use. Skipping this step can cause shifting, which may lead to additional treatment later. Think of retainers as your smile’s best insurance policy.
How Technology Helps Reduce Treatment Time
At Total Orthodontics, we use cutting-edge technology like digital scans and 3D treatment planning to improve accuracy and efficiency. This means fewer surprises, smoother adjustments, and a clear understanding of your progress every step of the way.
Digital systems allow our team to plan tooth movements with precision, minimizing unnecessary corrections and helping many patients finish faster than expected.
Keeping Your Smile Journey On Track
Your smile journey is unique, and at Total Orthodontics, our doctors work closely with you to ensure every step feels rewarding and stress-free. With convenient offices in Lone Tree and Greenwood Village, we make expert orthodontic care accessible and personalized.
If you’re ready to start or have questions about your treatment timeline, schedule your consultation today. Dr. Barefoot, Dr. Theroux, and Dr. Donahue will help you understand your options and create a plan that fits your smile goals perfectly.
Your dream smile is worth the time, and we’ll make every moment count.
Quick FAQ Recap: Orthodontic Treatment Timelines
Is treatment faster with braces or Invisalign?
Braces typically take 18 to 24 months. Invisalign often ranges from 12 to 18 months, but only if aligners are worn as directed.
What affects how fast my teeth move?
Case severity, age, treatment type, oral hygiene, and how your teeth naturally respond all influence treatment length.
Can I finish treatment sooner?
Yes, by maintaining great hygiene, avoiding broken brackets, wearing elastics as prescribed, and attending all scheduled appointments.
Do I still need a retainer afterward?
Yes. Retainers keep your teeth from shifting after treatment and protect the results you worked hard to achieve.
