Waiting for orthodontic treatment to be finished can feel like watching the Parkway traffic inch forward on a summer weekend—slow at times but always moving in the right direction. Dr. Stephen, Dr. Brian, and Dr. Dinesh at Bosonac Orthodontics get asked all the time, “How long will this take?” The truth is that treatment timelines vary based on the type of braces, the complexity of the case, and how closely patients follow instructions. Let’s break down what affects the process and what can help speed things up.
What Affects the Length of Orthodontic Treatment?
Not all smiles follow the same roadmap—some take the scenic route, while others move full speed ahead. Dr. Stephen, Dr. Brian, and Dr. Dinesh at Bosonac Orthodontics create custom treatment plans for each patient, but a few factors influence how long the process takes.
What Impacts Treatment Time?
- Complexity of Tooth Movement: Minor adjustments wrap up faster than cases involving bite correction or crowding.
- Age: Younger patients often experience quicker results since their jaws are still growing, but adults can still see great changes with a little patience.
- Type of Treatment Chosen: Metal braces, clear aligners, and other appliances all work on slightly different timelines.
- Consistency Is Everything: Missed appointments, broken brackets, or not wearing aligners as instructed can all add extra months to treatment.
While some things are beyond your control, there’s plenty you can do to keep your treatment moving smoothly. Let’s go over some simple ways to stay on track and get the most out of your orthodontic treatment.
How to Keep Your Treatment on Track
Braces or aligners won’t do all the work on their own, so they need a little teamwork to keep things moving. The team at Bosonac Orthodontics has seen firsthand how a few smart habits can help patients finish treatment on time (or even sooner).
Ways to Stay on Schedule:
- Stick to Your Appointments: Regular check-ins allow adjustments to be made as needed. Skipping visits can slow progress.
- Follow Wear Instructions: If you have clear aligners or rubber bands, wearing them as directed makes a huge difference.
- Protect Your Braces: Broken brackets or lost aligners mean setbacks. Skip the sticky, crunchy snacks, and if you’re hitting the field, a mouthguard is your best defense against unexpected delays.
- Keep Your Teeth and Gums Healthy: Cavities and gum issues can delay treatment, so brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings are a must.
A little extra care goes a long way when it comes to finishing on time. But what about those who want to speed things up even more? Let’s talk about accelerated treatment options.
Can You Speed Up Orthodontic Treatment?
Waiting for the big reveal can feel like watching paint dry, but some treatments can help things move along a little faster. While there’s no magic wand for instant results, here’s a few options that may help shorten the timeline:
Here are some ways to potentially reduce treatment time:
High-Frequency Vibration Devices
Tools like Propel or AcceleDent use gentle vibrations to encourage faster tooth movement.
Self-Ligating Braces
These braces adjust more smoothly than traditional ones, which may reduce overall treatment time.
Shorter Aligner Change Cycles
Some patients can switch clear aligners every 7-10 days instead of every two weeks, depending on their progress.
Minor Surgical Assistance
In some cases, small procedures can help teeth move more efficiently.
While these options can help in certain cases, the best way to keep things moving is still sticking to the plan. But what happens if treatment takes longer than expected? Let’s look at some common reasons for delays.
What Can Slow Down Orthodontic Treatment?
Even with the best efforts, sometimes treatment takes longer than expected. Dr. Stephen, Dr. Brian, and Dr. Dinesh at Bosonac Orthodontics have seen a few common reasons why orthodontic plans hit speed bumps—and the good news is, many of them can be avoided.
Missed or Delayed Appointments
Regular check-ins allow for adjustments that keep progress on track. Skipping visits or pushing them back too often can extend treatment time.
Not Wearing Aligners or Rubber Bands as Directed
Clear aligners need to be worn at least 22 hours a day, and rubber bands play a major role in bite correction. Not following instructions can add months to your timeline.
Broken Brackets or Lost Aligners
Every time a bracket breaks or an aligner goes missing, treatment slows down. Avoid hard, sticky foods, and keep your aligners in their case when not in use.
Oral Health Issues
Cavities and gum problems can stall treatment. Brushing, flossing, and keeping up with dental cleanings help avoid setbacks.
Even when things don’t go exactly as planned, orthodontic treatment keeps moving forward. Once your braces or aligners come off, what happens next? Let’s talk about retainers and why they’re a must.
What Happens After Braces or Aligners?
Getting braces off or finishing clear aligner treatment is a big moment, but keeping your results requires one final step—retainers. Dr. Stephen, Dr. Brian, and Dr. Dinesh at Bosonac Orthodontics help patients in Brick and Clark maintain their smiles long after treatment ends.
Why Are Retainers Important?
Teeth naturally try to shift back to their original positions. Retainers keep everything in place and help maintain long-term results.
Types of Retainers
- Removable Retainers – Worn full-time at first, then nightly.
- Fixed Retainers – A small wire bonded behind the teeth for continuous support.
Caring for Your Retainer
- Brush daily with mild soap and a soft toothbrush.
- Store in a case—never in a napkin (they tend to get thrown away!).
- Keep away from hot water to avoid warping.
Retainers may seem like a small step, but they make a huge difference in keeping your new smile right where it belongs. After months of treatment, a little maintenance goes a long way. Dr. Stephen, Dr. Brian, and Dr. Dinesh are always here to help, making sure your smile stays just the way you like it!
Patience Pays Off—And So Does Your Smile!
Good things take time, and orthodontic treatment is no exception. Dr. Stephen, Dr. Brian, and Dr. Dinesh at Bosonac Orthodontics make sure every step leads to lasting results. The finish line isn’t just about braces coming off—it’s about a smile that looks great and feels even better. Schedule your free consultation in Brick or Clark, and let’s get your smile moving in the right direction!