How long is orthodontic treatment?

The duration of orthodontic treatment is a question that is often asked.

Some may have finished ahead of schedule, while others may have lingered.

Duration of orthodontic treatment is about 1 to 3 years（average）

The total duration of orthodontic treatment is usually between one and three years. This is the period during which the orthodontic appliances are worn.

However, in some cases, it may take up to five years if the teeth are less aligned than others, if there are problems with the gums or if gum disease takes longer to heal.

On the other hand, people who do not need orthodontic treatment very often may complete the process in a few months.

The length of time depends on the condition of the teeth and the treatment method.

Steps in orthodontic treatment

Orthodontic treatment is divided into three steps.

• The period between the check-up and the making and fitting of the appliance to suit each individual.
• The period during which the teeth are moved (orthodontic appliance wearing period)
• Period of time during which teeth are held in place (period of wearing retention appliances( Retainer )

1, Check-up – time period until orthodontic appliances are made and fitted.

It does not take much time from the check-up to the fitting of the custom-made mouthpiece.

After a thorough examination and detailed treatment plan, the treatment period is decided upon, and the time from the production of the mouthpiece to its fitting is approximately one to two months.

2, Duration of tooth movement.

The period during which the teeth are moved is the period during which the orthodontic appliances are fitted and the teeth are moved to the desired position.

It generally takes between one and three years, although it may take less than a year if not much movement is required.

3, Duration of tooth fixation.

The period during which the teeth are fixed is also called the retention period.

The period during which the orthodontic appliance is removed and the retainer is worn after the teeth have been moved to the desired position.

Depending on the orthodontic condition, the duration of use may vary, for example, all day long or only at bedtime.

The period of time during which the braces are in place can also be a time to be careful, as the braces may return to their original position if they are not used in accordance with the doctor’s instructions.

What is the difference between ‘quick’ and ‘prolonged’ treatment?

Some people say that their orthodontic treatment ‘finished earlier’ or ‘lasted longer’ than the expected duration.

What are the differences between them?

People whose treatment was completed quickly.

• The metabolism of the tissues around the teeth was more active and moving faster.
• The dentition was less disturbed.

Apart from the ease of tooth movement and less disruption to the dentition, the time taken also depends on the skill of the dentist.

People with prolonged treatment.

• Did not adhere to wearing time with mouthpiece orthodontics.
• Did not properly retain the braces and they have fallen back.

If the mouthpiece or retention appliance is removable by you, some people forget to put it on or wear it less than the allotted time.

Be aware that if you do not keep to the set time, your braces may not work and you may continue to wear them for years.

Orthodontic treatment takes time.

The orthodontic period can take years.