Braces are one of the most effective and time-tested ways to straighten teeth and improve bite alignment — but one of the most common questions we hear is: “How long will I have to wear braces?”
The answer? It depends on your unique smile.
At Peach Orthodontics, we help patients throughout Hayden, Post Falls, and the surrounding areas understand what to expect during their orthodontic treatment. From mild crowding to more complex bite correction, here’s what really determines how long braces take — and how to get the best results as efficiently as possible.
What’s the Average Time for Braces?
For most patients, braces take between 18 and 24 months to complete treatment. However, this range can vary based on several key factors, including:
- The severity of the orthodontic issue
- Your age and stage of jaw growth
- The type of braces used
- How well you follow your orthodontist’s instructions
Some patients may finish treatment in as little as 12 months, while others with more complex cases may need up to 30 months or more.
Remember: your orthodontic timeline is designed to achieve the best long-term outcome — not just speed.
What Affects Braces Treatment Time?
No two smiles are the same, which means treatment plans are tailored to your specific needs. These are the biggest factors that affect how long you’ll wear braces:
1. Severity of the Case
Mild crowding or spacing usually takes less time to correct than more severe alignment issues like:
- Deep overbites or underbites
- Crossbites or open bites
- Severe crowding or spacing
- Jaw misalignment
More complex problems may require additional appliances or longer treatment timelines.
2. Type of Braces
Different types of braces may also impact how long your treatment takes:
- Traditional metal braces — Reliable and effective for all types of cases
- Clear (ceramic) braces — Similar timeline, but may require slightly more care
- Self-ligating braces — May reduce the number of visits and offer shorter treatment in some cases
- Invisalign — Best for mild to moderate cases; timeline is comparable when aligners are worn consistently
Our team will help you choose the best option for your needs, lifestyle, and smile goals.
3. Age of the Patient
Younger patients — especially those in their early teens — may complete treatment more quickly because their jaws are still growing, making teeth easier to move.
Adults can absolutely benefit from braces, too, but treatment may take slightly longer in mature jaws with fully set bone structures.
4. Patient Compliance
You play an important role in your own treatment timeline. Things that can affect how quickly your treatment progresses include:
- Attending all scheduled appointments
- Following appliance care instructions
- Maintaining excellent oral hygiene
- Avoiding foods that can damage brackets or wires
- Wearing elastics or other prescribed appliances as directed
Poor habits or missed appointments can delay results — while staying consistent can actually speed things up.
What to Expect During Your Braces Journey
If you’re thinking about braces or just getting started, knowing what to expect can help ease any anxiety and keep you on track.
Here’s a general breakdown of the stages of braces:
1. Initial Placement (Day 1)
Brackets and wires are placed. You may feel some pressure or soreness as your mouth adjusts, but it usually fades after a few days.
2. Active Treatment Phase (Ongoing)
You’ll return every 6–8 weeks for adjustments. These visits allow your orthodontist to monitor progress, tighten wires, and make changes as needed.
3. Elastics and Appliances (If Needed)
Rubber bands or other devices may be added to correct bite issues. Wearing these as directed is crucial to staying on schedule.
4. Braces Removal (Final Visit)
Once your teeth are aligned and bite is stable, your braces come off — revealing your new smile!
5. Retention Phase (After Braces)
You’ll receive a retainer to maintain your results. Retainers are essential to keeping your teeth in their new positions and preventing shifting.
Can I Get My Braces Off Sooner?
We totally understand the excitement of finishing treatment — and we want you to get there as efficiently as possible! While there’s no “fast-forward” button, these tips can help keep your treatment on track:
- Wear your rubber bands exactly as prescribed
- Avoid biting into hard or sticky foods that can break brackets
- Brush and floss daily to prevent delays due to oral health issues
- Keep all your appointments — adjustments keep your progress moving forward
- Ask questions if anything feels off or uncomfortable
Your cooperation matters. Orthodontic treatment is a team effort — and you’re the MVP.
Why Longer Treatment Isn’t a Bad Thing
While it’s natural to hope for the shortest timeline, longer treatment isn’t always a negative. In fact, a slower, more controlled approach is often the best way to:
- Protect your roots and surrounding bone
- Ensure long-term stability and retention
- Address multiple concerns (like crowding and bite issues)
- Reduce the risk of relapse
At Peach Orthodontics, we focus on creating healthy, beautiful smiles that last — not just quick fixes.
Why Choose Peach Orthodontics for Braces?
Choosing an experienced orthodontist can make a huge difference in your treatment time, comfort, and overall experience.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Advanced technology — Digital imaging and treatment planning
- Personalized plans — Tailored timelines based on your specific case
- Supportive team — We make the process comfortable and easy to follow
- Flexible scheduling — So you never miss key appointments
- Transparent communication — You’ll always know what to expect
Dr. Rickheim and Dr. Smith have helped thousands of patients across Hayden, Rathdrum, and Post Falls achieve beautiful results — and they’re here to do the same for you.
Ready to Get Started?
Still wondering how long braces might take for your specific case? Let’s find out — together. Schedule your free consultation at Peach Orthodontics in Hayden and get a clear, personalized treatment plan built around your goals and timeline.
We’re here to support you at every step of your orthodontic journey.