Waiting for the “perfect time” to start orthodontic treatment? You’re not alone. One of the first questions patients ask Dr. John Kittleson at Kittleson Orthodontics is, “How long will this take?” The answer depends on a few different factors, but with modern treatments and advanced technology, getting the smile you want might take less time than you think. Let’s break down what determines treatment length and what you can do to keep things on track.
What Determines Your Treatment Time?
No two smiles are the same, which means orthodontic treatment timelines can vary. Some people are in and out of braces or aligners in a year, while others need a little more time to reach their goals. Dr. John Kittleson at Kittleson Orthodontics creates customized plans based on several factors that influence how long treatment will take.
The Complexity of Your Case
Small adjustments, like minor spacing or mild crowding, often take less time to correct. More involved cases—such as bite realignment or severe tooth movement—require additional time and precision.
Your Age
Younger patients typically see faster results because their jawbones are still developing, making tooth movement more efficient. While adults may require a little extra time, advancements in orthodontic technology make treatment just as effective at any stage of life.
The Type of Treatment You Choose
Metal braces, ceramic braces, and clear aligners all work at different speeds. Some methods apply continuous pressure, while others rely on patient compliance.
How Well You Follow Instructions
Sticking to the plan makes all the difference. Wearing aligners for the required hours, attending scheduled adjustments, and maintaining good oral hygiene help keep treatment on track—or even shorten it.
Now that we know what affects treatment time let’s look at how different orthodontic options compare.
How Long Do Different Treatments Take?
Not all orthodontic treatments work at the same pace. Some options move teeth more quickly, while others take a bit longer but provide more flexibility. Dr. John Kittleson at Kittleson Orthodontics offers several choices, and the right one for you will depend on your goals, lifestyle, and how much correction is needed.
- Metal Braces: The classic choice, metal braces typically take 18 to 24 months, though some patients finish in as little as a year. They’re highly effective for complex cases and work around the clock.
- Ceramic Braces: These work like metal braces but blend in more with your teeth. The treatment time is usually similar, though they may require slightly more time due to their more delicate material.
- Clear Aligners (Invisalign & SureSmile): These removable trays shift teeth over time and are a popular choice for adults. Treatment generally lasts 12 to 18 months, but minor cases may be completed in as little as 6 months.
- Early Orthodontic Treatment: Some children benefit from Phase 1 treatment, which lasts 6 to 12 months and helps create space for incoming adult teeth. If needed, a second phase in their teens may follow.
Treatment time is just one part of the equation—what you do during the process plays a big role in how quickly you see results. Let’s explore ways to keep your treatment on track.
How to Stay on Track and Finish Sooner
Once treatment begins, the timeline isn’t set in stone. Your habits and commitment can make a real difference in how quickly you reach the finish line. Dr. John Kittleson and the team at Kittleson Orthodontics help patients in Mequon keep their treatment moving smoothly, but there are a few things you can do to stay on schedule—or even finish ahead of time.
- Wear Aligners as Directed – If you’re using Invisalign or SureSmile, wearing your trays for 20–22 hours a day is non-negotiable. The more consistent you are, the better (and faster) the results.
- Keep Your Appointments – Skipping or delaying orthodontic check-ups can set you back. Regular visits allow adjustments to be made on time, keeping progress steady.
- Watch Your Diet – Braces and certain foods don’t mix. Hard, sticky, or chewy foods can break brackets or wires, leading to extra visits and treatment delays.
- Take Care of Your Teeth – Poor oral hygiene can cause problems like cavities or gum inflammation, which can slow treatment. Brushing and flossing daily is a simple way to keep things on track.
- Use Rubber Bands as Instructed – If your treatment includes elastics, wearing them as prescribed is key to keeping everything moving as planned.
Following these steps makes a real difference in how quickly you see results. But what if you’re wondering whether there’s a way to speed up treatment even more? Let’s look at what’s possible.
Can You Speed Up Orthodontic Treatment?
Patience pays off when it comes to orthodontics, but some patients wonder if there’s a way to reach the finish line faster. While there’s no magic shortcut, there are a few strategies that may help teeth move more efficiently. The team at Kittleson Orthodontics uses advanced techniques to make treatment as smooth as possible, but patient cooperation is just as important.
- High-Tech Braces & Aligners – Modern orthodontic appliances and treatment techniques, like customized clear aligners and AI-guided placement of braces, are designed to move teeth more precisely, reducing unnecessary delays.
- Accelerated Treatment Options – Some orthodontic techniques, such as vibration devices or high-frequency aligner wear schedules, may help encourage teeth to shift more efficiently.
- Perfect Compliance – The easiest way to speed up treatment is to follow all instructions exactly. Wearing aligners or rubber bands as prescribed, avoiding foods that could damage braces, and keeping up with hygiene all play a role in keeping progress on track.
While some factors are out of your control, sticking to your plan can make a big difference in how quickly you see results. Dr. John Kittleson and the team at Kittleson Orthodontics are here to make the process as easy and stress-free as possible!
Timing Is Everything—And So Is Your Smile!
Good things take time, and a great smile is no exception. No matter if your treatment lasts six months or two years, every step brings you closer to a healthier, more confident grin. Dr. John Kittleson and the team at Kittleson Orthodontics are here to make the process smooth, efficient, and even enjoyable.
The best time to start? Right now. Schedule a free consultation at our Mequon office and let’s get the countdown to your new smile started!