How long do my braces need to stay on?

One of the most common questions asked of me is "how long do my braces stay on?" There is no easy answer and is dependent on each patient's. On average, the majority of treatment times range from 18-24 months. However, treatment times can be as little as 6 months and as long as 36 months or, in rare cases, even longer.

As orthodontists, we specialize and undergo a rigorous education. Our job entails focusing on braces and nothing else. Our goal is to provide three things. First is the most obvious, provide straight teeth. Second, to coordinate the bite in the best possible way. And third, is to provide facial harmony.

For example, if a patient presents with all their permanent teeth with little crowding and their jaws are in harmony, then treatment can be completed in less than a year. These cases are generally the easiest to treat.

If patients present with some crowding without the need for the removal of teeth and the placement of an expander/spacer, then treatment lengths are generally around 15-18 months.

One final example of a more severe case would include the extraction of teeth due to severe crowding or the necessity of jaw surgery to coordinate the bite. These cases can last 2-3 years.

We as individuals are unique. Our teeth come in all different shapes and sizes just as we do. Treatment is customized to your individual needs. Not only will an orthodontist provide you with a perfect smile but we will also give you the best bite possible so that you may keep your teeth for a very long time.