How Quickly Can I Straighten My Teeth?

Posted on May 11, 2022

If you’re thinking about straightening your teeth, you might be wondering how long orthodontic treatment will take. The length of treatment depends on a number of factors, including your individual situation, your age, and the type of treatment you choose. Let’s review some common choices.

Braces

Braces are the traditional treatment for orthodontics. They’re a popular choice for teens between the ages of 12 and 18 because it’s easy to move the teeth into position while they are still growing in. You can also get braces as an adult.

With braces, the length of treatment ranges from 6 months to 2 years but averages 18 months to 2 years. Individual needs determine the length you have to wear the braces. After the braces come off, you will have to wear a retainer for a while.

Invisalign

Invisalign is becoming more popular for teens and adults because the clear aligner trays are convenient, comfortable, and nearly invisible. The Invisalign system gradually straightens your teeth and are as effective as braces for almost everyone. The trays need to be adjusted about every two weeks.

Aligners are removable but must be worn between 20 and 22 hours per day for maximum effectiveness. The average time needed to straighten your teeth ranges from 12 to 18 months, a little shorter time than traditional braces. Just as with braces, you will have to wear a retainer when treatment is finished.

Two-Phase Treatment

Two-phrase treatment is used for children whose teeth are still growing in. The purpose of Phase 1 is to align the teeth and prevent overcrowding while the teeth are growing in. It may involve pulling baby teeth to make room or wearing a retainer.

After a 6 month waiting period, the child may not need further orthodontic treatment. If more straightening is needed, braces will be applied. The child will wear the braces between 1 and 2 years, depending on the extent of treatment needed.

The type of treatment you choose and your unique dental needs will determine how soon you can be finished, but it’s rare that treatment needs to last more than 3 years. In general, Invisalign is faster than other teeth straightening methods, but your orthodontist will advise you on the best treatment for you.

If you’re looking for orthodontic treatment in the Saginaw area, see what MI Smile Journey can do for you.