Serving Kissimmee, Florida. Kendrick Orthodontics also serves nearby areas.
How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment Take?
Short answer: most orthodontic treatments take 12–24 months, depending on bite complexity, appliance choice, and consistency.
Simple alignment can finish in 6–12 months. Complex bite corrections may take 24–30 months. Invisalign® is commonly 6–18 months when trays are worn 20–22 hours per day. Every smile is different, and the right plan depends on your bite, your goals, and how consistently treatment is followed. Our job at Kendrick Orthodontics is to design a plan that fits your life and gets you to the finish line efficiently and safely.
What actually sets your timeline?
• Case complexity. Crowding, spacing, impacted or missing teeth, and bite problems (overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite) add steps and therefore time.
• Growth and age. Kids and teens sometimes move a little faster because bones are still developing. Adults achieve fantastic results, too; movements may just require more precise sequencing.
• Appliance choice. Braces and Invisalign can both be highly efficient when used for the right diagnosis. Responsibilities differ, but results can be equally strong.
• Consistency. Aligners must be worn 20–22 hours per day. Elastics should be used exactly as prescribed. Missed wear or broken brackets adds weeks.
• Appointments and hygiene. Regular visits, great brushing and flossing, and avoiding “repair” emergencies keep momentum steady.
• Biology and health. Some medications, gum conditions, and smoking can slow the biology of tooth movement. We factor this into your plan from the start.
Typical treatment timelines
• Braces (kids/teens): usually 12–24 months
• Braces (adults): usually 12–24 months
• Invisalign (all ages): usually 6–18 months with full-time wear
• Limited cosmetic alignment: sometimes 6–12 months when bite correction isn’t needed
• Complex bite or surgical cases: often 24–30 months (occasionally longer)
Remember, these are averages. Your exact time depends on your diagnosis and the goals you set together with Dr. Kendrick.
Phase 1 (Early Treatment) — for growing kids
The American Association of Orthodontists recommended a first orthodontic check-up by age 7.
Phase 1—sometimes written Phase I—is early, interceptive orthodontic treatment for children who still have a mix of baby and adult teeth. The purpose is to guide jaw growth, create needed space, and prevent problems from getting worse so the final phase of treatment is simpler and more predictable. Typical reasons to consider Phase 1 include crossbites or underbites, narrow upper jaws that benefit from palatal expansion, severe overcrowding that needs space created early, and habits or posture issues that affect the bite or airway.
Typical duration for Phase 1 is about 6–18 months, depending on the goal: expansion, bite correction, space creation, or habit control. After Phase 1 finishes, most children enter a “resting” or observation period while adult teeth continue to erupt. Phase 2—full braces or aligners once most adult teeth are in—completes alignment and bite, and typically lasts 12–24 months. Not every child needs two phases; many complete treatment in one comprehensive phase during the teen years. The first orthodontic checkup is recommended around age seven so we can choose the right timing for your child, not simply the fastest calendar.
Braces vs. Invisalign — does one take longer?
Both systems can be equally fast when matched to the right case. Braces are always on, so there’s no “wear time” to remember; they offer excellent control for detailed tooth movements. Invisalign can be very efficient for certain alignment and bite issues, and some patients love the flexibility—just remember that trays must be in 20–22 hours each day to keep your timeline on track. We’ll recommend the option that fits your bite and your lifestyle and be honest about the time each will take for you.
Can you make treatment faster?
We focus on efficient, healthy tooth movement—no shortcuts that risk gum health, roots, or jaw joints. Tools that streamline care at Kendrick Orthodontics include digital treatment planning and 3D scanning (no goop impressions), custom bracket systems with precise wire sequences, elastic strategies that correct the bite while you sleep, and selective accelerated options when appropriate. For children, smart early guidance in Phase 1 can make Phase 2 shorter and simpler. The goal is steady progress, fewer surprises, and the fewest possible repair visits.
How you can keep things on time
• Follow wear time. Aligners should be in 20–22 hours/day; switch trays exactly on schedule.
• Use elastics as prescribed. Keep a spare pack in your bag or car.
• Protect your braces. Avoid sticky, hard, and crunchy foods that pop off brackets; wear a mouthguard for sports.
• Brush and floss like a pro. An electric toothbrush plus floss threaders or a water flosser keeps gums healthy and appointments productive.
• Keep appointments. If you miss a visit, reschedule quickly so wires or aligners are changed on time.
• Tell us about changes. New medications, dental work, or discomfort—all of that helps us keep the plan efficient.
What happens after braces or Invisalign?
Finishing treatment is step one; holding the result is step two. You’ll wear retainers while the bone and gums stabilize around the new tooth positions. Most patients start with full-time wear briefly, then transition to nights only. Teeth naturally try to drift over a lifetime—nightly retainers are the easiest insurance policy you’ll ever use to protect your investment.
Frequently asked questions
How soon will I see changes?
Most patients notice small changes within a few weeks and obvious progress by 8–12 weeks.
Do adults take longer?
Not necessarily. Adults often follow instructions very closely, which balances out natural biology differences.
Can minor crowding really finish in six months?
Sometimes—when bite correction isn’t needed and you’re consistent with aligners or elastics. We’ll tell you honestly what’s realistic at your consultation.
What if I break a bracket or lose aligners?
Let us know right away. Repairs and lost wear time are the most common reasons timelines stretch. Quick fixes keep you on schedule.
Start today—smile sooner
Serving Kissimmee, Florida. Kendrick Orthodontics also serves nearby areas. Have questions about Phase 1, braces, or Invisalign timelines? Still wondering how long dose orthodontic treatment take? We’re happy to help. Schedule a free consultation
(407) 870-9848.
