If you’re curious about how much time braces need to straighten teeth, the answer depends on several factors. That includes the complexity of your case, the appliance you choose, and how well you follow your orthodontist’s instructions. In this post, you’ll discover typical timelines, what impacts them, and how Smiles by Lorino’s full scope of services supports your journey to a confident smile.
Timeline for Orthodontic Treatment at Smiles by Lorino
On average, most orthodontic treatment takes around 1 to 2 years, with adult braces spanning 18 to 30 months, depending on individual conditions.
- Minor cosmetic adjustments, such as light crowding, may be completed closer to the 6-month mark.
- Moderately complex cases, including severe crowding or bite misalignment, typically require 12 to 24 months.
- More severe or adult-specific issues, like jaw discrepancies, can extend treatment to 30 months or more.
What Influences How Long Do Braces Take to Straighten Teeth?
Severity & Type of Issue
Issues such as overbite, underbite, open bite, crossbite, crowding, gapping, or jaw misalignment all affect how long braces need to set teeth straight.
Appliance Type
Smiles by Lorino offers a broad range of tools beyond traditional braces that influence how long treatment might take. They are as follows:
- Traditional fixed braces (metal or ceramic) – dependable for complex corrections
- Clear aligners (Invisalign) – removable, more discreet, and often faster if worn consistently
- Space maintainers – used to preserve space for adult teeth, typically in early childhood cases
- Jaw repositioning appliances (splints) – helpful for TMJ-related alignment issues
- Lip and cheek bumpers – relieve pressure from soft tissues that may be altering your tooth position
- Palatal expanders – widen the upper jaw to make room and improve alignment
- Headgear – slows jaw growth in growing children; less common today but still used when needed
- Removable retainers – critical post-treatment tools to maintain your results
Biological Response & Age
How long do braces take to straighten teeth depends on age. Children, teens, and adults respond at different rates. Younger patients often see quicker results thanks to more adaptable bone and gum structures, while adults may take longer. On average, treatment may last 18 to 30 months.
Compliance & Regular Adjustments
When asking how long do braces take to straighten teeth, it’s important to remember that removable options like Invisalign require discipline. Consistent wear 20 to 22 hours a day is crucial. Missing adjustments or follow-ups can extend treatment time. With our personalized care at Smiles by Lorino, we help you stay on track with properly scheduled visits for the best outcome.
Our Orthodontic Services at Smiles by Lorino
Smiles by Lorino provides holistic, patient-focused treatment options:
- Braces (metal & ceramic) – reliable, effective, and customizable to your aesthetics
- Aligners (Invisalign) – modern, discreet, and comfortable for eligible cases
- Dentofacial Orthopedics & Two-Phase Treatment – for young patients requiring early intervention (Phase One), followed by a Phase Two (typically braces)
- Surgical Orthodontics – orthognathic surgery for severe jaw misalignments uncorrectable through braces alone
- TMJ / TMD Appliances – jaw repositioners or splints to manage temporomandibular joint disorders
- Retainers – specially made dental retainers that help preserve your smile long-term
Treatment Type and Timeline Expectations
At Smiles by Lorino, the amount of time braces take to straighten teeth depends on the complexity of your case and your treatment goals. While every smile is unique, here’s what you can typically expect:
- Minor Crowding – When teeth require only small adjustments, braces may achieve the desired results in as little as 6 months to 1 year. These cases are often cosmetic, involving minimal tooth movement.
- Standard Braces for Adults – For most adult patients with moderate spacing, crowding, or bite issues, treatment usually takes 12 to 24 months. This allows enough time for safe, gradual movement and proper bite correction.
- Complex Braces Cases – Severe crowding, bite misalignment, or jaw-related concerns can require 30 months or more to fully resolve. These situations often involve more intricate adjustments to ensure lasting results.
- Two-Phase Braces Treatment for Children – In some pediatric cases, braces may be part of a two-phase plan. After an initial phase to guide jaw growth, the second phase with braces typically lasts 12 to 24 months to fine-tune alignment.
- Braces After Orthognathic Surgery – When jaw surgery is needed to correct severe misalignment, braces are worn before and after the procedure. The full process can take 2 years or longer, including preparation and recovery.
By understanding these general timeframes, you’ll have a realistic picture of how long braces treatment might take in your specific situation. During your consultation, Smiles by Lorino will create a personalized plan based on your orthodontic needs, ensuring the most efficient path to your ideal smile.
Tips to Reduce How Long Braces Can Take to Correct Teeth
- Attend Every Appointment – check-ups allow for timely adjustments that keep progress on track
- Follow Appliance Instructions – consistency is key, especially with removable aligners
- Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene – clean teeth prevent delays from issues like cavities or gum problems
- Use Appliances as Directed – every tool serves its part, so use them as directed
- Communicate Discomfort or Damage – early fixes prevent setbacks
Every step you take, from brushing twice a day to wearing your retainers faithfully, helps you get the most efficient, safe, and rewarding orthodontic journey.
How Long Braces Take to Make Teeth Straight: What to Expect
- Typical Range: Most patients reach their new smiles in 1–2 years.
- Smiles by Lorino: Adult cases often last between 18–30 months, depending on intricacy.
- Modern Options: Invisalign and early interventions may reduce time, but compliance is everything.
- Comprehensive Care: From braces and expanders to TMJ appliances and retainers, Smiles by Lorino offers treatments tailored to your orthodontic needs.
- Your Role: Attend appointments, follow instructions, and stay vigilant about oral health.
Ready to Find Out How Fast Braces Straighten Teeth?
Wondering how long braces take to straighten teeth? It’s a common and important question. Whether you’re looking to fix mild misalignments or prepare for orthognathic surgery, Smiles by Lorino offers expert care, customized appliances, and supportive services to guide your transformation efficiently and comfortably.
With your commitment and a trusted orthodontist as your partner, your journey to a confident, beautifully aligned smile is designed to be smooth, effective, and worth every stage. Schedule your appointment with us now!
