You’re not alone if you’ve ever wondered how long orthodontic treatment takes. Some people breeze through the process in under a year, while others take a bit longer to reach their final results. Dr. Fred Alba and Dr. Jeff Alba at Alba Orthodontics in Mechanicsburg customize every treatment plan, so timelines vary based on factors like age, treatment type, and how consistently instructions are followed. Let’s look at how long different treatments take and what determines how long you’ll be in treatment.
How Long Do Different Orthodontic Treatments Take?
Not all orthodontic treatments work at the same pace. Some options move teeth more efficiently, while others take a little longer but offer added benefits like extra discretion or fewer office visits. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect with different treatment types at Alba Orthodontics:
Spark Clear Aligners
One of the most flexible options, aligners usually take 6 to 24 months, depending on how much movement is needed. Because they’re removable, sticking to the recommended 22 hours of daily wear is what keeps progress on track—skip too much time, and your teeth won’t get the memo to move!
Damon Clear Braces
These braces use self-ligating technology, adjusting more smoothly over time and typically requiring fewer appointments. Most patients finish treatment in 12 to 24 months—sometimes even faster than with traditional braces.
InBrace (Lingual Braces)
These braces are completely hidden behind the teeth, making them a popular choice for adults. Because they require precise adjustments, treatment time, similar to clear or ceramic braces, ranges from 12 to 24 months.
Traditional Metal Braces
The classic choice, metal braces, works for all types of cases and generally take 18 to 30 months, depending on complexity. They’re highly effective for more involved corrections, but they do require regular visits for adjustments.
While these timelines give a general idea, every case is different. Next, let’s break down what determines how long each treatment option typically takes.
What Determines How Long Orthodontic Treatment Takes?
There’s no magic number when it comes to orthodontic treatment time—it all depends on what your teeth need and how they respond. Dr. Fred Alba and Dr. Jeff Alba at Alba Orthodontics help Mechanicsburg patients choose the best option based on their goals, lifestyle, and timeline. Here’s a look at how long different treatments typically take:
- Age Isn’t Everything— Younger patients often see faster progress since their bones are still developing, but adults can get just as great results with the right approach.
- Different Treatments, Different Timelines— Spark Clear Aligners, Damon Clear Braces, and InBrace all move teeth in their own way, which means the type of treatment you choose influences how long it takes.
- More Complex Cases Take Longer— A little spacing or mild crowding might be fixed in six months, but bite corrections or major shifts can take closer to two years.
- Consistency Speeds Things Up— Sticking to aligner wear times, attending appointments, and taking care of your teeth all help keep treatment moving at the right pace.
Now that we know what affects the timeline, we’ve got some tips on how to keep things moving as quickly as possible.
How to Keep Your Orthodontic Treatment on Track
Success in orthodontic treatment goes beyond what happens in the clinic—what you do every day plays a huge role in how quickly you see results! Dr. Fred Alba and Dr. Jeff Alba at Alba Orthodontics help Mechanicsburg patients stay on schedule with a few simple but effective strategies. Want to reach the finish line faster? Here’s how:
- Follow Your Treatment Plan— Whether you’re wearing Spark Clear Aligners or Damon Clear Braces, sticking to the recommended wear schedule makes all the difference. Aligners should be worn at least 22 hours a day, and braces need regular check-ups to stay on track.
- Keep Up with Your Appointments— Skipping or delaying visits can slow down progress. Alba Orthodontics offers flexible scheduling to make it easier for busy families and professionals in Mechanicsburg to stay on top of appointments.
- Take Care of Your Teeth— Cavities or gum issues can delay treatment, so it’s essential to brush, floss, and get regular cleanings. Dr. Fred Alba and Dr. Jeff Alba always remind patients that healthy teeth move more efficiently.
- Be Mindful of What You Eat— Avoiding hard, sticky, or crunchy foods can help prevent broken brackets and unnecessary delay if you have braces. If you’re wearing aligners, removing them only for eating and drinking (except water) helps maintain consistent progress.
- Wear Your Retainer After Treatment— Once your braces come off or your last aligner is complete, wearing your retainer is the only way to keep everything in place. Skipping this step can lead to unwanted shifting, and no one wants to redo their orthodontic treatment!
Sticking to these simple habits can keep your treatment on schedule and help you see results as quickly as possible. Before you know it, you’ll be finishing treatment and enjoying the confidence that comes with a well-balanced smile!
One Step Closer to the Smile You’ve Always Wanted
Every transformation takes time, but the finish line is always worth it. Dr. Fred Alba and Dr. Jeff Alba at Alba Orthodontics have helped Mechanicsburg patients reach that moment when they see their new smile for the first time. Starting treatment now means getting results sooner, and there’s no better way to invest in yourself. Schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward a smile that feels as good as it looks—because the sooner you start, the sooner you’ll be showing it off!