If you’re thinking about getting braces or already have them, one of the first questions you probably have is, “How long is this going to take?” It is a fair question and one that comes up often.

The answer is not so straightforward, though. The time it takes for the braces to completely straighten your teeth and give you the dentition of your dreams often hinges on quite a few things. Your bite, your age, your habits, and even the type of braces you choose all play a part.

That’s not to say that there’s no specific timeline for you to keep in mind. On the contrary, there are a few. Otherwise, this article wouldn’t exist.

In this post, we’ll walk you through what to expect, what affects treatment time, and how you can speed up the process.

Average Time Braces Take to Straighten Teeth

According to the pros at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), braces typically take 18 to 24 months to fully straighten your teeth. But do not get too attached to those numbers just yet. Some patients complete treatment in under a year, while others take closer to three years.
Mild alignment issues, like slightly crooked front teeth, often take less time, closer to 6 to 12 months. But more complex concerns, like severe crowding or bite correction (especially in adults), will naturally stretch the timeline.
An orthodontist will give a more tailored estimate after an initial evaluation, but the first few months are often spent preparing the mouth. That means getting used to the appliance, spacing teeth correctly, and setting the foundation for real movement.

5 Factors Influencing the Duration of the Treatment

Severity of the Misalignment

If your teeth are just a little out of place, they will not need to move as far or as dramatically, which means less time in braces. But if the bite needs correction or the teeth are very crowded or rotated, treatment will take longer. Some patients arrive with what looks like a straightforward case, but once X-rays are taken, impacted teeth or hidden issues may require more attention.

Type of Braces You Choose

Not all braces move teeth at the same speed. Traditional metal braces are powerful and often the fastest for complex cases. Clear aligners like Invisalign are great for mild to moderate issues, but may take longer if worn inconsistently. Lingual braces, which are placed behind the teeth, are discreet but can be a bit slower because adjustments are more involved.

Your Age

Yes, age matters. Teens and younger patients tend to respond more quickly to orthodontic treatment because their jaws are still developing. Adults can absolutely achieve great results. It just might take a little longer because the bone is denser and less responsive.

How Well You Follow Instructions

Wearing elastics if prescribed, not skipping appointments, and avoiding hard or sticky foods that can break brackets all play a big role in treatment time. There have been cases where treatment was delayed by months simply because patients were not wearing rubber bands consistently.

Your Body

People’s biologies are different, even the most identical of twins. Some people’s teeth move quickly, while others take their sweet time. This has nothing to do with effort or age. It’s just biology. You can’t control it, but your orthodontist can adjust your treatment to make things better.

Types of Braces and How Long They Take to Straighten Teeth

Traditional Metal Braces

These are what most people picture when they think of braces. Besides being able to take a beating, metal braces are the best kind of braces for folks with more complex dental problems. We have found that traditional metal braces typically take between 18 to 24 months, but in some moderate cases, we have seen teeth straighten beautifully in about 12 months. They are also the most precise option when teeth need major movement.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces work like metal ones, but they are made of clear or tooth colored materials. As such, they’re less noticeable. While they work like their metal counterparts, they’re a bit more fragile and will typically require more adjustments. All of this means the timeline is longer. To be precise, it’s between 18 to 30 months.

Lingual Braces

These braces sit behind your teeth, making them invisible when you smile. Folks love the discretion they offer, but they do come with a learning curve for both the patient and the orthodontist. Adjustments take more time and precision, which can stretch the treatment to about 20 to 36 months. For adults who want an invisible option and are committed to the long haul, lingual braces are a way to go.

Clear Aligners (like Invisalign)

Clear aligners are a popular choice for adults and teens with mild to moderate alignment issues. They are removable, discreet, and comfortable. But (and this is a big but!) they only work if you wear them as directed, usually 20 to 22 hours a day. When used properly, most cases take about 12 to 18 months. However, if you forget to wear them or misplace trays, that timeline can stretch quickly.

DentSpa offers advanced, customized aligner treatments designed for your unique smile goals. Learn more about clear aligners at DentSpa

Which Braces Are Right for Me?

Every smile is unique—and so is every treatment plan. At DentSpa, our expert orthodontic team will assess your case, explain your options, and guide you toward the treatment that best fits your lifestyle and goals. Book a consultation today and let’s find the perfect solution for your smile.

Final Thoughts

Braces don’t just straighten teeth—they boost confidence, improve oral health, and change lives. While the average treatment time ranges from 12 to 36 months depending on your case and choice of braces, the end result is always worth the wait.

Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or ready to commit to a better smile, knowing what affects your timeline can help you make smart, informed decisions.

Still not sure what’s best for you? Let the experienced team at DentSpa guide you through every step. From consultation to your final retainer, we’re here to make your smile journey smooth, comfortable, and effective.

Ready to get started? Book your free consultation at DentSpa