How Long Does Teeth Straightening Take? Answers from a Dentist

Almost everyone experiences a need for teeth straightening treatment. However, some people ignore the need due to the time commitment. While the treatment time differs for everyone, it can be helpful to get a general idea of how long the process may take. Keep reading to find out more!

FAQs about teeth straightening timelines

Outlined below are some commonly asked questions and answers about how long teeth straightening treatment takes. This information should be reviewed when considering any type of braces or aligners.

1. How long does teeth straightening with braces take?

Teeth straightening with braces tends to take anywhere from nine months to two years. If the crookedness, crowding or gaps are mild then the timeline tends to be shorter, whereas, more severe issues may take up to two years. 

2. How long does teeth straightening take with clear aligners?

According to a general dentist, clear aligners for teeth straightening may be as short as six months or as long as a year and a half. 

3. What teeth straightening treatment works the fastest?

The two main teeth straightening options are braces and clear aligners. According to some general dentists, braces may take longer since the brackets individually shift each tooth, whereas aligners move the teeth altogether at once. 

4. Is there a way to speed teeth straightening treatment up?

There is not a set way to speed up teeth straightening treatment. However, general dentists do recommend that oral hygiene is maintained, as this will ensure that treatment produces positive results. Additionally, if clear aligners are chosen as the teeth straightening treatment then dentists advise patients to remain disciplined and wear the aligners for at least 22 hours a day. 22 hours a day is the minimum amount of time needed each day in order to avoid delayed treatment times. 

5. What factors play into how long teeth straightening treatment takes?

According to a general dentist, there are a lot of factors that play into how long the teeth straightening process takes. Outlined below are some of them. 

• The severity of the dental problem. For example, if there are multiple teeth protruding then treatment may take a year or so
• How disciplined the patient is. If clear aligners are chosen for teeth straightening then the patient has to remain disciplined and actually wear them for 22 hours a day or else the treatment time could take longer
• The treatment option that is chosen, i.e. braces or clear aligners
• How healthy the patient's teeth and gums are when teeth straightening starts

Find out more from a general dentist

Want further information on how long teeth straightening takes? Talking with a general dentist is the next step to take. The dentist can perform an evaluation to determine which teeth straightening option is most suitable. Additionally, the patient can ask questions and go over any concerns that they have. Reach out today to learn more or to get scheduled for a consultation appointment. 

Request an appointment here: https://www.smilesbydesignhuntsville.com or call Smiles by Design, PC at (256) 660-3233 for an appointment in our Huntsville office. 

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