How long does orthodontic treatment take

A step-by-step timeline – Kingston Orthodontics, Surrey

Are you interested in braces but wondering how long orthodontic treatment takes? Discover the full braces and aligner timeline from consultation to retainers with Kingston Orthodontics. At Kingston Orthodontics, based in Kingston upon Thames, we understand that starting orthodontic treatment is a big decision. Knowing what to expect and how long treatment will take, helps you plan your brace journey confidently.

Every smile is unique however most patients follow a predictable orthodontic treatment plan and orthodontic timeline. Here’s a detailed look at each stage, from your first consultation to your final retainer check.

Average Orthodontic Treatment Time in the UK

Most orthodontic treatments take between 12 and 36 months. Your treatment length depends on several factors, including:

• The complexity of your case
• Your age and growth rate
• The type of treatment such as traditional braces, ceramic braces, or clear aligners
• The need for tooth extractions
• The need for more than one brace type such as a removable brace followed by traditional braces or clear aligners
• How well you follow your orthodontist’s instructions

At Kingston Orthodontics, our specialist orthodontists create personalised treatment plans tailored to your concerns and your orthodontic needs in order to deliver fantastic treatment results as efficiently as possible.

Step 1: Week 0

Initial Consultation – Timeline 1-2 weeks

Your journey begins with a friendly consultation with one of our specialist orthodontists at our practice in Kingston upon Thames.
During your visit, we will:

• Discuss your concerns and your goals
• Fully examine your teeth and bite alignment
• Take clinical photographs to allow for a thorough discussion
• Take digital scans or X-rays as necessary
• Discuss your goals and all the suitable orthodontic treatment options
• Provide you with an estimated treatment duration
• Explain the cost breakdown and payment options
• Present you with the suitable appliance choices – traditional braces, ceramic braces, or Invisalign® aligners

Step 2: Week 0-3

Treatment Planning & Records – Timeline 1-3 weeks

Once you decide to go ahead with treatment, we develop your personalised orthodontic treatment plan using your clinical photographs, X-rays and advanced digital scans. This tailored treatment plan is sent to your general dentist and a copy is also sent to you so that you are fully aware of the plan.

Step 3: Month 1

Fitting Braces or Aligners

Appointment length: 1 hour

This is where your treatment journey begins!

• For fixed braces, we’ll carefully bond the orthodontic brackets to your teeth and place your first wires. We will talk you through all the cleaning and dietary instructions so you feel comfortable with how to manage your braces
• For clear aligners, you’ll receive your first aligner trays and we will show you how to insert and remove them. We will provide you with full instructions on how to wear and care for your aligners

Expect:

• Discomfort which may require pain relief in the first few days after traditional braces are fitted
• A feeling of pressure or tension in the initial days after each new aligner is worn

Step 4: Month 12 – 36 months

Active Orthodontic Treatment

Appointment length: 20 – 30 minutes

During this treatment phase, your teeth move gradually to their ideal positions and your bite correction takes place. You’ll have an appointment every 4–8 weeks for brace adjustments or new aligners. Your orthodontist will monitor your level of oral hygiene to ensure that it remains excellent throughout your treatment.

Expect:

• Minor tightness or pressure after adjustments which is completely normal and a sign that your teeth are moving as planned
• Visible progress within months

Step 5: Month 12-36

Braces Removal or Completion of Aligner Treatment

Appointment length: 1 hour

When your teeth are perfectly aligned and your bite has been corrected, we’ll remove your braces or your final aligners. This is a moment worth celebrating!

Expect:

• Your traditional brace to be gently removed from the surfaces of your teeth and the adhesive will then be carefully cleaned away
• For those wearing clear aligners, your attachments will be carefully removed from the surface of your teeth
• Permanent bonded retainers will be fitted behind your upper and lower front teeth (if clinically appropriate in your case)
• A digital scan will be taken to construct your custom made retainers which will be ready to fit one week after your brace removal and completion of treatment

Step 6:

Retention Phase

To maintain your beautiful new smile, you’ll be given custom made retainers in order to reduce the chance of your teeth shifting back. Your orthodontist will advise you on the ideal retention regime and hours of wear for your individual case. Be prepared in the long term, to wear your retainers nightly to maintain your fantastic orthodontic treatment result that you’ve worked so hard to achieve!

Orthodontic Timeline Summary

Factors That Reduce Treatment Time

• Excellent oral hygiene
• Following aligner wear advice
• Regular brace adjustment appointments
• Following advice regarding the wear of elastics with traditional braces or clear aligners

Why Choose Kingston Orthodontics?

At Kingston Orthodontics, our expert team uses the latest techniques and digital technology to deliver efficient, comfortable, and discreet treatment. Our focus is simple: exceptional results, tailored care, and smiles that last a lifetime. We are a well established private practice and a lot of our patients choose Kingston Orthodontics due to word of mouth as well as our 5 star Google and Trustpilot reviews.

Whether you choose Invisalign®, ceramic braces, or traditional braces, we’ll ensure your journey is smooth from start to finish. Book your consultation with Kingston Orthodontics today and get a personalised timeline for your treatment.

FAQ – Common Questions About Orthodontic Treatment Time

1. How long do braces take to straighten teeth?
   Most patients complete treatment in 18–24 months, although very mild cases may take as little as 6 months. Your orthodontist will provide you with a range of treatment options tailored to your specific orthodontic concerns and requirements

2. Do clear aligners work faster than braces?
   For mild to moderate cases, clear aligners like Invisalign® can work just as efficiently as fixed braces. In some cases, aligners can work slightly faster due to controlled, digital tooth movement and excellent compliance which may allow you to change your aligners more frequently

3. Can I shorten my treatment time?
   Yes! Following your orthodontist’s instructions, maintaining good oral hygiene, and attending every appointment can all help keep your treatment on schedule

4. How long do I need to wear retainers after braces?
   We recommend full-time wear of removable retainers for the first week after brace removal, then night-time wear indefinitely to prevent your teeth from relapsing