How Long Do You Need to Wear Braces? Here’s What Affects Treatment Time

Getting braces is a big step toward achieving a healthy, beautiful smile. One of the most common questions people ask when starting orthodontic treatment is, “How long will I have to wear braces?” While the average treatment time ranges from 18 to 24 months, this can vary significantly depending on several factors. In this blog, we’ll explore what influences how long braces need to stay on and what you can do to stay on track.

Average Duration for Wearing Braces

Orthodontic treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. For some, braces may only be necessary for a year, while others may need them for three years or more. On average, most people wear braces for about 1.5 to 2 years, but your orthodontist will give you a more personalized estimate based on your needs.

1. Severity of the Case

The most significant factor affecting the duration of treatment is the complexity of the dental issue. Minor misalignments or spacing issues may only take a few months to correct. On the other hand, more complicated issues like severe crowding, bite misalignment (overbite, underbite, crossbite), or jaw issues may require extended treatment.

For instance, a patient with a simple gap between two front teeth may wear braces for just 6–9 months. Someone with major jaw alignment issues, however, might need treatment for over 2 years.

2. Age of the Patient

Age plays a key role in how quickly teeth can be moved. Younger patients—typically children and teens—tend to respond faster to orthodontic treatment. Their bones are still developing, making it easier to guide teeth into proper positions.

Adults can still achieve excellent results with braces, but treatment may take a bit longer. This is because adult bone structures are fully developed, making them less responsive to movement. However, modern orthodontic technology has significantly improved treatment times for adults as well.

3. Type of Braces

The kind of braces you choose also impacts how long you’ll need to wear them. Traditional metal braces are often the most efficient at correcting complex cases. Ceramic braces and lingual braces (which go behind the teeth) offer a more discreet look but might take a little longer due to their design and limitations.

Clear aligners like Invisalign can be a great option for milder cases, and they generally have comparable treatment times to traditional braces—provided they are worn consistently (at least 20–22 hours per day).

4. Patient Compliance

Believe it or not, you play a huge role in how long your braces need to stay on. Skipping appointments, not wearing rubber bands as instructed, or neglecting oral hygiene can slow down progress and even cause setbacks.

Maintaining a good oral care routine, following your orthodontist’s advice, and showing up for your scheduled check-ups all help keep your treatment on track—and may even help shorten it.

5. Genetics and Individual Response

Every mouth is different. Some people’s teeth naturally move faster, while others may need more time. Factors like bone density, tooth shape, and even your body’s biology can influence how quickly treatment works. These are things neither you nor your orthodontist can control, but they’ll be taken into account when planning your treatment timeline.

Staying on Track

The best way to ensure your treatment doesn’t take longer than necessary is by staying committed. Follow your orthodontist’s guidelines, keep your teeth and braces clean, and wear any additional appliances (like elastics or retainers) exactly as directed.

If you ever have concerns about how your treatment is progressing, don’t hesitate to reach out to your provider. A quality dental clinic near you should always be ready to answer questions and make adjustments if needed.

Ready to Start Your Braces Journey?

Every smile is unique, and so is every treatment plan. The best way to find out how long you’ll need to wear braces is by scheduling a consultation with a trusted orthodontist. If you're looking for professional care in Alberta, our dental clinic NE Calgary offers customized treatment options to help you achieve your dream smile as efficiently as possible. We also specialize in braces NE Calgary, serving patients of all ages with modern and comfortable solutions.