How Long Do Braces Stay On?

If you’re thinking about getting braces, you’ve probably asked: How long do braces stay on for.

It’s one of the first questions that comes to mind, especially if you’ve seen others wearing them for what feels like forever.

You want results and a better smile. But not a drawn-out journey filled with monthly changes and sore gums.

No one wants to wear brackets longer than they have to. We’ve seen it countless times in our practice; patients of all ages are curious (and sometimes anxious) about the timeframe.

And rightfully so. Most dentists agree that treatment time depends on consistency, lifestyle, and following the orthodontist’s instructions closely.

How Long Do Braces Stay On For?

There’s no universal timeline for braces. But averages tell us a lot.

On average, orthodontic treatment time ranges from 6 to 24 months for most people.

In complex cases, such as severe jaw misalignment or multiple missing teeth, it can extend up to 3 years (36 months).

What Can Extend Braces Treatment Time?

Some delays are avoidable. Others aren’t. Here are specific causes that can increase your treatment time by 3 to 9 months or more:

• Delaying appointments: Missed monthly check-ups can significantly delay treatment; each missed visit could cost 4 to 6 weeks of progress.
• Broken wires or brackets: Each break can pause the pressure needed to move teeth. It may add 2–4 weeks to the treatment timeline per break.
• Not wearing rubber bands: For patients correcting bite issues (like overbite or underbite), failure to wear elastics daily can delay treatment by 3 to 6 months.
• Poor oral hygiene: Infections like gum disease or tooth decay can pause treatment entirely. Your braces may need to come off to treat dental issues.
• Not following the orthodontic plan: Skipping aligner wear, not brushing after meals, or chewing hard food can all disrupt the orthodontic treatment plan.

Factors That Affect Orthodontic Treatment Time

Some people wear braces for a year. Others, closer to three. The reason is, your mouth isn’t like anyone else’s.

Here’s what affects how long your braces stay on:

1. Complexity of Dental Issues

Fixing misaligned teeth, severe overbite, or jaw alignment problems will take longer.

Mild crowding requires a shorter time. Complex bite issues need longer treatment.

2. Age and Growth Stage

Younger patients (especially teens) respond quickly. Their jaws and gums are still developing. Adults can still straighten their teeth, but it often takes more time due to a fully developed bone structure.

3. Oral Health and Hygiene Habits

Bad hygiene can cause tooth decay and gum disease, which can slow down treatment. You’ll need to maintain top-notch oral hygiene daily.

4. Compliance with Orthodontist’s Advice

Skipping appointments or ignoring the orthodontist’s instructions can add months to your timeline.

Following every instruction is key to a successful treatment.

5. Type of Braces You Choose

There are so many types of braces to choose from:

Traditional Metal Braces

Treatment Time: 6 to 24 months

Traditional metal braces are the most common and efficient. They apply consistent pressure and are ideal for moderate to severe misaligned teeth or jaw alignment issues.

Ceramic Braces

Treatment Time: 9 to 36 months

Ceramic braces function like metal braces but use tooth-coloured or clear brackets.

They’re less visible but can break more easily and may require longer orthodontic treatment time, especially in teens or active adults.

Clear Aligners (e.g. Invisalign®)

Treatment Time: 6 to 18 months, depending on case severity

These are custom-made trays worn 20–22 hours daily. Treatment only progresses if you wear them consistently. Missing days can add weeks or months. It’s the best for mild to moderate crowding or spacing

Lingual Braces

Treatment Time: 18 to 36 months

They’re attached to the back of the teeth, so they’re invisible from the front. However, they’re harder to clean and adjust, and treatment tends to take longer than traditional metal braces.

What’s the Average Wear Time for Braces?

Most people wear braces for 6 to 24 months. But how long braces have to stay on for really depends on how closely you stick to the plan.

Here’s what the Dental Board of Australia advises:

Most orthodontic treatments range between one to three years, depending on the patient’s age and dental condition.

Some cases resolve faster, especially with clear aligners for minor crowding. Others, like those needing clear ceramic braces for aesthetic reasons, might take longer due to more delicate materials.

Even among different types of braces, wear time can vary.

How to Look After Your Teeth While You Wear Braces

Your job doesn’t stop after installation.

You’ve got to work with your braces every single day. Now, here’s how to look after your teeth while on braces.

Following the Treatment Plan

Don’t miss appointments.

Reschedule quickly if you do. Wear rubber bands if your orthodontist gives you some.

Every skipped step delays the desired position you’re aiming for.

Maintaining Good Dental Hygiene

Braces create hiding spots for food. Here’s what helps:

• Brush twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush
• Floss with interdental brushes or a water flosser
• Rinse with fluoride mouthwash
• Use dental wax for irritation spots

This helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease, both of which can interrupt your orthodontic treatment time.

Avoiding Certain Foods and Activities

Stay away from the sticky, crunchy, and hard foods. Here’s a list to avoid:

• Popcorn
• Chewy lollies
• Nuts
• Ice cubes
• Tough meats

Choose soft foods like yoghurt, soup, mashed potato, and bananas. They’re easier on brackets and reduce the risk of broken wires.

Regular Visits to the Orthodontist

Your orthodontist needs to adjust the constant pressure applied by your braces. These visits are essential for real progress.

We’ve seen people skip a few check-ins and then need extra months added. Attending regular appointments keeps things moving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can braces fix teeth in 2 months?

In most cases, no. Two months is too short for effective tooth movement using traditional braces or clear aligners. You’ll need at least 6 to 12 months for even the mildest orthodontic cases to stabilise. Mild relapse cases (e.g. post-braces shifting) may respond to aligners in 3 to 6 months, but complete correction still requires longer.

What is the shortest time for braces?

The shortest full treatment time is around 6 months, typically with systems like Invisalign Express or other clear aligners. These are only suitable for very minor spacing or crowding issues.

Most patients need 12 to 24 months, especially if bite correction or jaw positioning is involved.

Is it normal to wear braces for 7 years?

No, 7 years is far beyond normal. The average treatment time is 18 to 24 months, with some complex cases extending to 36 months.

Braces worn longer than that usually indicate non-compliance, irregular appointments, or unresolved dental issues such as tooth decay or gum disease. Ongoing reassessment should be done if treatment exceeds 3 years.

How do you know when braces are ready to come off?

Braces are removed only when your teeth have reached their desired position, your bite is balanced, and the jaw functions well. Our orthodontist at Alpha Dental and Implant Centre will evaluate your alignment, perform bite tests, and compare results with your orthodontic treatment plan. Final x-rays or scans may also be done to confirm readiness.

Do clear ceramic braces take longer than metal ones?

Yes. Clear ceramic braces can extend treatment time by 2 to 6 months on average. The ceramic material creates more friction, and brackets are more fragile, so orthodontists adjust them more carefully. They’re best for people prioritising aesthetics over speed.

Let’s Talk About Your Timeline

Still wondering how long do braces usually stay on for? Let’s answer that in person. Call us on (08) 8269 3311 or visit Alpha Dental & Implant Centre in Prospect.