How long does orthodontic treatment really take? It’s one of the first questions patients ask when considering braces or clear aligners, and the answer depends on several factors. Dr. Ken Dillehay and Dr. JK Dillehay at Dillehay Orthodontics customize treatment plans based on each patient’s needs, making sure Wichita and Derby families get results as efficiently as possible. So, what influences the timeline, and what can you do to stay on track? Here’s what you need to know.
What Shapes Your Treatment Timeline?
Just like no two smiles in Wichita or Derby are exactly the same, the time it takes to straighten teeth varies from person to person. Dr. Ken Dillehay and Dr. JK Dillehay at Dillehay Orthodontics design treatment plans around each patient’s dental needs, lifestyle, and goals. Here’s what makes a difference in how long treatment lasts:
How Teeth Need to Move
Small spacing adjustments can take a few months, while correcting crowding or bite issues may take longer.
Braces or Aligners?
Metal braces, clear braces, lingual braces, and clear aligners all work at different speeds depending on the complexity of the case.
Commitment to the Process
Wearing aligners as recommended, avoiding foods that can damage braces, and keeping up with checkups all play a role in staying on track.
Age and Biology
Younger patients often see faster movement because their bones are still developing, but adults can still achieve great results with a little extra time and precision.
Every treatment plan is tailored to fit the patient, but how long do different options typically take? Let’s look at the general timelines for braces and aligners.
How Long Do Different Treatment Options Take?
The time needed for orthodontic treatment depends on the approach used. The Dillehay Orthodontics team helps patients in Wichita and Derby choose the best option based on their needs and lifestyle.
Metal and Clear Braces
- Effective for mild to complex cases.
- Typically worn for 18 to 36 months with regular adjustments.
Clear Aligners (3M™ Clarity™ & Simply Clear In-House Aligners)
- A nearly invisible option for teens and adults.
- Treatment lasts 6 to 24 months, depending on consistency with wear time.
Lingual Braces
- Hidden behind the teeth for a discreet look.
- Timelines mirror traditional braces at 18 to 36 months.
Interceptive Orthodontics (For Kids)
- Phase 1 treatment helps with early dental development.
- Usually lasts 6 to 12 months, with further treatment possible later.
Surgical Orthodontics
- Used for cases requiring jaw alignment.
- Total treatment can span 12 to 36 months.
Each method follows its own timeline, but there are ways to keep things on track. Let’s explore what helps treatment move as smoothly as possible.
How to Keep Treatment on Track
While orthodontic treatment follows a general timeline, what you do along the way can make a big difference. Patients at Dillehay Orthodontics in Wichita and Derby who stay consistent often complete their treatment on time—or even sooner. Here’s how to help things move along smoothly:
- Stick to Appointments – Regular visits allow Dr. Ken Dillehay and Dr. JK Dillehay to make necessary adjustments and keep progress on track.
- Follow Wear-Time Guidelines – Clear aligners should be worn 22 hours a day, and rubber bands for braces should be used as instructed.
- Be Mindful of Your Diet – Sticky, hard, or crunchy foods can break brackets and wires, causing delays.
- Take Care of Your Appliances – Damaged braces or lost aligners can add extra months to treatment.
- Prioritize Oral Hygiene – Keeping teeth and gums healthy helps avoid issues that might slow things down.
Sticking to these habits makes a big impact on treatment time. But what happens when things don’t go as planned? Let’s look at some common reasons for delays and how to avoid them.
What Can Slow Down Orthodontic Treatment?
Even with the best intentions, treatment can take longer than expected. Patients at Dillehay Orthodontics in Wichita and Derby who understand common setbacks can take steps to avoid them. Here’s what can slow things down:
Not Wearing Aligners as Directed
Skipping days or wearing trays for less than 22 hours a day can extend treatment time.
Damaged braces mean extra visits for repairs, delaying progress.
Missed Appointments
Regular check-ins with Dr. Ken Dillehay and Dr. JK Dillehay keep treatment moving. Skipping them can create setbacks.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Cavities and gum issues can pause treatment while dental problems are addressed.
Skipping Rubber Bands or Other Appliances
Elastics, expanders, and retainers all play a role in moving teeth efficiently. Ignoring them can add months to treatment.
While these factors can extend timelines, staying consistent with treatment recommendations helps avoid delays. Now, let’s talk about what happens once the active phase of treatment is complete.
What Happens After Braces or Aligners?
Reaching the end of treatment is exciting, but keeping teeth in place afterward is just as important. Patients at Dillehay Orthodontics in Wichita and Derby finish their active treatment with a retention phase to maintain their new smile.
- Retainers Are a Must – Teeth naturally want to shift back over time, so wearing retainers helps keep them in place.
- Types of Retainers – Options include removable clear retainers and fixed retainers bonded behind the teeth. Dr. Ken Dillehay and Dr. JK Dillehay help patients choose the best option.
- Wear Time Matters – Full-time wear is typically recommended for the first few months, followed by nightly wear long-term.
- Routine Checkups Help – Periodic visits help ensure retainers fit properly and teeth stay where they should.
With the right care and regular checkups, patients can enjoy long-lasting results and the confidence that comes with a well-maintained smile.
Smiles Don’t Run on a Stopwatch
Orthodontic treatment takes time, but every step brings lasting benefits. Patients at Dillehay Orthodontics in Wichita and Derby leave not just with straighter teeth, but with better oral health and confidence that lasts. Dr. Ken Dillehay and Dr. JK Dillehay create treatment plans built around your needs, making the process as smooth as possible. Schedule your free consultation and before you know it, you’ll be wondering why you didn’t start sooner!