How long do braces last?

Usually orthodontic patients need to see the orthodontist once per month. During these visits the orthodontist is going to change & adjust the wires, springs, or rubber bands to make sure that the orthodontic braces are applying the right amount of pressure on the teeth to move them to their new position.

Important factors in determining the duration of an orthodontic treatment (and the orthodontics cost as well) are :

• the severity of the case, complexity of the orthodontic problem that requires correction
• patient’s age
• state of health of the teeth & gums
• the width of distance that teeth should be moved
• location of teeth to be moved
• growth and tissue response to treatment
• the cooperation of the patient (he should attend all his appointments on time and take care not to damage appliances)
• proper use of retainers after the braces removal
• expertise of the orthodontist
• treatment plan and technique

It is not always easy for the orthodontist to make an exact prediction of the time that a specific patient will need for treatment. Especially for young patients the pattern on which the jaw bones and teeth grow in relation to each other is very important. Unusual, uneven growth may lead to the need of changing the treatment plan. In this case the orthodontic treatment will last longer than expected.

Treatment time is also longer when oral surgery and recovery is needed before or during the braces treatment.

You should also know that orthodontic treatment does not always end when the dental braces are removed. After the braces are removed, many orthodontic patients need to wear a removable appliance (retainer) for a while to keep their teeth in place.

During this time, you'll still need to visit the orthodontist regularly. Every patient wears a retainer for a different length of time, but typically they should be used all the day for six months & later for some more time only during the sleeping hours. It is very important to wear this removable appliance so your teeth do not go back to their old position.

Length of treatment for orthodontic corrections has decreased in the recent years thanks to the development of new techniques and modern materials for orthodontic appliances. But everything comes with a cost, and novel techniques using advanced materials (such as invisalign) are not affordable for everyone.

Typical orthodontic treatment time is expected to be from one to three years, although two years is the average. But in some cases treatment may last up to 6 years.

The cost of orthodontic treatment can be significant and many patients may not afford it if they are not covered by their dental insurance. Learn how to choose a dental insurance plan that will provide the best dental treatment to you and your family.