How Long Do Braces Take to Work?

Every day our patients ask us, “how long do you have to wear braces?” We enjoy answering this question because it allows us to talk about what makes Vinson Orthodontics such an incredible place to start your smile journey. 

Our patients are shocked to learn that we can shorten treatment time by several months. The average braces treatment time at our practice ranges from a few weeks to 24 months. The bottom line is that we can provide a better smile in less time. 

Get the answer to how long does it take for braces to work now! 

a teenage girl with a yellow sweater smiling to show off her metal braces

What’s the Average Damon Braces Treatment Time?

Braces technology has undergone significant changes. Breakthroughs like Damon Braces have significantly shrunk the average braces treatment time. While other options can take as much as 36 months to see results, the average Damon braces treatment time can vary between 5-23 months. 

There is a wide range of treatment times because no two people have the exact same needs. During your free exam, we will examine the underlying factors affecting your teeth and design a more attractive and healthy smile. 

Some factors that influence your treatment plan include:  

  • Age 
  • Scope of treatment 
  • The complexity of your case

Keep in mind that incredible results are the product of a fantastic orthodontist. During your free exam, we will narrow down your treatment window and provide you with a comprehensive timeline for your treatment.

Braces Treatment Time by Type

How long do braces take to work? The answer to that question depends on the type of treatment you pick and who you choose for your orthodontic care. 

There are more options than ever before for improving the health of your bite. Popular orthodontic appliances include:

Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces use a bracket system that requires manual adjustments. These appointments require time and can cause soreness that lasts for 1-3 days after an adjustment. Because they utilize a less efficient approach than Damon Braces, it can take 10-36 months to see results with braces.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are affixed to the back of your teeth and are virtually undetectable to others. While these appliances provide a less noticeable treatment experience, they require the same painful adjustment appointments as metal braces.

The design of lingual braces limits the effectiveness of the braces, creating the need for more in-office appointments and longer treatment times. It can take 18-24 months to complete your treatment with lingual braces.

Invisalign and Clear Aligners

Since 1997, Invisalign clear aligners have provided straighter, healthier smiles without the need for brackets and wires. These remarkable aligners are customized to your needs, making them comfortable to wear and designed to create your ideal smile quickly.

Invisalign transforms your smile in as little as 12 weeks to 18 months. A comprehensive 2019 research paper from BMC Oral Health found that people with aligners may experience a quicker treatment time than those with fixed appliances.

Vinson Orthodontics is an Invisalign Diamond Provider. We have unique insight into how to use these aligners to give you the smile of your dreams. Learn more about Invisalign, including our options for kids, teens, and adults.

a girl with very curly hair smiling with her traditional metal braces

Find Out How Long Your Braces Treatment Will Take in Wake Forest and Clayton

At the end of the day, the quality of your orthodontist influences your treatment time as much as the appliance.

Dr. Vinson and the skilled team at Vinson Orthodontics have improved many lives with excellent orthodontic care. Our passion and commitment have established our reputation as the leader of orthodontic care in Wake Forest and Clayton.

Schedule a free exam today to learn more about orthodontic treatment!