One question our patients ask every day is how long orthodontic treatment takes. We understand that orthodontics requires a significant time investment, and we recognize your commitment to improving your oral health.
While each patient is different and timelines may vary, we can share approximate timelines for different case types. This information can help you understand why certain procedures take longer and give you a starting point for a conversation with our doctor.
Orthodontic Treatments We Offer and Approximate Timelines
Invisalign and Invisalign Teen
Timeline: For mild cases involving small gaps or other minor corrections, Invisalign treatment may take as little as 6 months. However, most patients can expect treatment to last about 12 to 18 months. Treatment times could be extended if you wear your aligners inconsistently or for less than 20-22 hours daily.
Many patients ask why the Invisalign timeline varies so much between case types. Invisalign is a versatile treatment option. It can treat a range of orthodontic issues, from mild to moderate corrections.
Invisalign can fix alignment issues as diverse as a small gap between the front teeth to moderate bite differences. The more correction needed, the longer treatment will take. Overall, Invisalign is a gentle, efficient way to improve your smile, with the added benefits of comfort and discretion.
Two-Phase Orthodontics
Timeline: Two-phase orthodontics typically takes about 6 to 18 months for the first phase. After the first phase, the child enters a resting period before braces or Invisalign complete the corrections. For children with moderate to severe tooth or jaw alignment issues, undergoing phase one treatment may significantly shorten the timeline for braces treatment. The entire two-phase orthodontics process generally takes 2 to 4 years, excluding the resting period in the middle.
Two-phase orthodontics combines early orthodontic treatment with classic braces. At about age 7, we recommend that all children receive an evaluation to determine whether they could benefit from two-phase orthodontics. If children show signs of a developing orthodontic issue, we inform their parents and create a treatment plan.
Traditional Braces
Timeline: For most patients, traditional braces take about 12 to 18 months. As with Invisalign treatment, patients with more complex needs could take longer to achieve final results.
Traditional braces are versatile and reliable. Parents need not worry that their children will lose or forget to wear their clear aligners, which can lead to more consistent treatment. Braces can also correct more severe alignment and bite issues than clear aligners.
Orthognathic Surgery
Timeline: Orthognathic (corrective jaw) surgery is a lengthy process from start to finish, including preparatory work, the surgery itself, and a healing period. Before surgery, you will need to wear either braces or clear aligners for 12 to 24 months to ensure your teeth are in the best possible positions.
Surgery is the middle step and begins an extended healing period. Initial surgical healing takes about 5-8 weeks. From 3 to 6 months, you will wear braces again to help your teeth settle in their final positions. Complete healing after surgery takes about a year.
TMJ Treatment
Timeline: Healing from TMJ can take from several weeks to several months once you begin treatment. Most patients respond well to non-invasive methods such as diet and lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and targeted exercises. For patients with more severe issues, the process may take up to a year.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics
Which is better: braces or Invisalign?
Both treatments are highly effective when supervised by a well-qualified orthodontist. During an orthodontic consultation for yourself or your child, we will review all your options and explain the pros and cons of each in your particular case. We also offer Invisalign Teen, tailored for younger patients with special features that make it easier for adolescents to complete treatment successfully.
What is the right age for a child to receive braces?
If a child doesn't need early treatment, the average age to receive standard braces is early adolescence. This is the optimum time window because the permanent teeth are in, but the jaw is still growing. However, there is no upper age limit to wear braces. The process may take longer for adults but can be equally effective.
What are the symptoms of TMJ syndrome?
TMJ, also known as temporomandibular joint syndrome, causes symptoms that can range from mild jaw discomfort to pain that interferes with eating, sleeping, and relaxing. The most common signs of TMJ include:
- Jaw pain
- Aching facial pain that can radiate to the ears and eye area
- Headaches
- Tooth sensitivity or toothache
- Clicking and popping sounds from the jaw when accompanied by discomfort
- Difficulty opening or closing the jaw
If you suffer from any of these symptoms, don’t wait for an evaluation. We can create a plan that helps you overcome this disorder.
How often should I see the orthodontist for follow-up appointments?
Typically, we see our braces patients roughly every 4 to 6 weeks. Invisalign appointments may be spaced a little further apart at 6 to 8 weeks. These guidelines are approximate and vary from patient to patient based on your treatment plan.
Why does it take so long to heal from orthognathic surgery?
Orthognathic surgery is a major procedure that involves cutting and repositioning the jawbone. The bone and soft tissue need an extended time to heal. The process requires patience and determination, but when you experience complete results, you will enjoy better oral health and an improved quality of life.
We understand that orthodontic treatment can feel intimidating. We are here to provide an honest assessment of the care you need and give you a personalized treatment plan indicating how long we believe it will take to see final results. Hass Family Orthodontics invites you to contact us and schedule a consultation today.