Orthodontic treatment usually takes between 6 and 24 months, depending on the type of braces used, the complexity of the case, and how well patients follow treatment instructions.
Mild alignment issues treated with invisible braces may take less than a year, while more complex bite corrections using ceramic braces can take closer to two years.
According to Verywell Health, the average comprehensive orthodontic treatment time for fixed braces is between 14 and 33 months.
At Bass Orthodontics, treatment plans are designed individually for every patient using discreet options such as Invisible Braces and Ceramic Braces.
Invisible braces usually take between 6 and 18 months to straighten teeth, depending on the severity of crowding and bite issues. Mild cosmetic corrections can often be completed relatively quickly, while more complex cases take longer.
Clear aligners work by gradually moving teeth through a series of removable trays. Each tray is worn for around one to two weeks before switching to the next. Patients must wear aligners for around 20–22 hours per day for treatment to stay on schedule.
At Bass Orthodontics, patients benefit from advanced 3D treatment planning and individually designed aligners that help improve efficiency and precision throughout treatment. Regular reviews are also carried out to monitor progress and make adjustments where needed.
Ceramic braces typically take between 18 and 24 months, although treatment can sometimes be slightly longer for more complicated orthodontic problems. Ceramic braces work similarly to traditional metal braces but use tooth-coloured brackets to make them less noticeable.
Many adult and teenage patients choose ceramic braces because they combine strong tooth movement with a more discreet appearance. At Bass Orthodontics, we consider ceramic braces as offering “the best of both worlds” by balancing aesthetics with effective treatment.
Although ceramic braces are highly effective, treatment time still depends on the complexity of the bite and how well patients attend appointments and care for their braces.
Several factors can extend orthodontic treatment time. One of the biggest causes is poor compliance. Patients using invisible aligners who do not wear them for the recommended number of hours each day often experience delays.
Missed appointments can also slow treatment because braces need regular adjustments and monitoring. Most patients attend review appointments every 4–8 weeks so the orthodontist can check tooth movement and make necessary changes.
Other issues that may increase treatment time include:
At Bass Orthodontics, regular monitoring helps identify problems early and keep treatment progressing as smoothly as possible.
Regular orthodontic check-ups are essential because they allow your orthodontist to monitor tooth movement safely and efficiently. During these visits, braces may be adjusted, aligners reviewed, and any issues identified before they cause delays.
These appointments also help protect your oral health during treatment. Teeth can be harder to clean while wearing braces, which means regular professional guidance is important for avoiding decay and gum problems.
At Bass Orthodontics, every treatment plan includes ongoing support and careful supervision to help patients achieve the best possible results as efficiently as possible.
Thinking about starting orthodontic treatment? Get in touch to arrange a consultation and find out which treatment option is right for your smile.
