What Is The Average Age-Related Duration Of Orthodontic Treatment?

Getting orthodontic treatment takes time, and that wait can feel endless. You want straight teeth but also want to know how long it will take. The timeline varies based on age, the type of correction needed, and how well you follow the therapy plan. If you are looking for an orthodontist in Silver Spring to address your concerns or are already undergoing treatment, you may be curious about the process. Understanding the average duration for different age groups helps set realistic expectations.

How Age Affects Treatment Time

Your age plays a significant role in how long oral procedures last. The younger you are, the easier it is to move teeth into place. Let us break it down: 

Phase 1: Early Dental Treatment (7-12 Years Old)

Phase 1, called interceptive treatment, is for children whose permanent teeth have not fully developed. 

At this stage, early intervention helps correct existing or potential problems before they get worse. Treating issues early can prevent more abrasive procedures later. It also reduces the total duration of the procedure, making phase 2 easier or even unnecessary in some cases. 

This stage usually lasts 6 to 18 months. Routine checkups help determine when the next phase should begin. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) suggests that children see an orthodontist for evaluation by age seven. 

Phase 2: Full Dental Treatment (12-18 Years Old)

Phase 2 begins when almost all the adult teeth have erupted. This stage focuses on the final alignment using braces, aligners, or other orthodontic tools. The goal is to ensure proper jaw function, prevent discomfort, and improve overall appearance. 

Most treatments in this phase last 12 to 20 months, but this varies depending on the patient’s oral complexity. 

Phase 3: Orthodontic Treatment For Adults (18 Years And Older)

Phase 3 usually lasts 18 to 30 months, but severe conditions take longer. Since the jaw is fully developed, moving teeth requires more time and effort. Adults often opt for aligners as they offer a discreet way to straighten teeth without the hassle of wires and brackets. 

However, traditional braces are recommended for severe misalignment. 

Consistency in wearing aligners or following brace adjustments contributes to the therapy’s success. Regular checkups help track progress and make changes if required. 

Factors That Slow Down Treatment Time And Results

Besides age, several aspects impact how long you wear your orthodontic appliance. They are: 

• Complexity of Oral Health: Minor adjustments take less time, while severe misalignment or bite issues need more time.
• Type of Treatment Used: If the condition is serious, an orthodontist in Silver Spring suggests conventional braces over aligners for better results. Wearing Invisalign will also resolve the cause but will take a longer duration. 
• Patient Compliance: Wearing dental devices as instructed and maintaining good hygiene helps keep treatment on track.
• Bone Density: Adults often need more extended regimens because their bones become weak. 

Orthodontic care is a conscious step for your health and confidence. The duration depends on age, case complexity, and how well you follow the plan instructed by the dentist. Our team at Maryland Dental Specialty Group helps patients get the best results for an improved smile. Whether you need braces for your child or Invisalign as an adult, we will create personalized plans to fit your needs. Visit us now to explore your options.