One of our most frequently asked questions!

One of the first questions a patient asks when they go to an orthodontist is ‘how long will it take to straighten my teeth?’. Treatment duration varies on a case by case basis, but these guidelines can be used as a general indication.

Teeth straightening treatment times can differ significantly between patients, depending on the severity of crowding, spacing and bite issues, and the treatment option recommended. In adults, because the jaws have finished growing, this will often extend the treatment time, simply because teeth move more slowly through bone that is no longer growing than in through the bone of a growing person in their teens.

Your own biology can also affect your teeth straightening treatment time, meaning that your teeth may naturally shift into alignment faster or slower than someone else’s.

Everyone is different, and each patient’s teeth will respond uniquely to treatment.

There are now several treatment options available. In addition to traditional metal braces, you can choose from clear aligners and ceramic braces. These different options provide effective ways to straighten teeth, however not all options may be suitable for your smile.

For the majority of patients, teeth straightening with Braces or Invisalign may take anywhere between 6 months and 3 years, which is a huge range! After examining you, your orthodontist will be able to give you an accurate estimate of how long your treatment will take based on her experience treating patients with similar requirements.

Be compliant!

Failure to comply with your Orthodontist’s instructions will mean your treatment takes longer. If you follow the directions of your Orthodontist, your treatment will progress smoothly on schedule. The most important things to remember about compliance are:

• Be thorough and consistent with teeth cleaning.
• Take care when eating, avoid hard, sticky and chewy foods.
• Stick to your appointments with your Orthodontist and follow her directions.
• Don’t delay making an appointment to repair breakages as this could allow teeth to move back towards their original positions.