How long does orthodontic treatment in Greenwood Village take? How many visits will you make to Dr. Straffon‘s chair? Our 303 Smiles team gets that; you want to know when you’ll see real progress. These are normal questions, and you deserve direct answers. Here are a few things to remember about your treatment timeline.
The Usual Treatment Timeline
Most orthodontic treatments average anywhere from 12 to 24 months. That might sound like a long time, but each mouth is different. One person might complete treatment right at 12 months. Another might need closer to 24 months if their teeth need some extra TLC.
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Keep in mind that these numbers aren’t set in stone. You have your own needs and goals, and you can discuss those with Dr. Straffon. Plus, no two sets of teeth move at the exact same speed. Still, knowing this timeframe helps you get a sense of what to expect.
Key Factors That Affect Your Treatment Duration
Here are some things to pay attention to that can affect how long your 303 Smiles treatment will take.
1. Age and Growth
Your age can greatly affect how fast your teeth move during treatment. Kids’ and teens’ jaws are often still growing, which sometimes makes tooth realignment easier. Adult teeth, on the other hand, can still move during treatment. But grownups’ jaws are fully developed. That means it can take more time.
Still, you’re never “too old” for braces or aligners. Adults often see great results with orthodontic care. The process might just require a little more patience.
2. Type of Treatment
Are you leaning toward traditional braces? Maybe you prefer clear aligners like Invisalign? Different treatments come with different timelines.
Metal braces tend to stay on for 18 to 24 months. However, if your treatment only needs small tooth movements, you might be done faster.
These use brackets made from ceramic or other clear materials. They often follow the same timeline as metal braces.
Aligners like Invisalign can speed things up for mild to moderate adjustments, sometimes finishing around the one-year mark. If you need more tooth movement, expect a lengthier schedule.
Damon Braces
Damon braces are self-ligating, which means they use a special clip to help reorient your teeth. Fewer appointments for you!
Pitts21 Braces
Pitts21 braces are Smaller and smoother brackets made with advanced technology that gives you a stronger, brighter smile in less time.
3. Severity of Misalignment
Minor spacing or a slightly crooked tooth might only need 6 to 12 months. If your bite is off or your teeth need a lot of shifting, it may extend to 18 months or more.
4. Your Compliance
You have a lot of power over how fast your orthodontic treatment goes. This might sound surprising, but it’s true. When you follow the plan set by your orthodontist, things often move along nicely.
For instance, if you wear clear aligners, you’ll need to keep them on about 22 hours a day. If you forget to pop them back in after meals or skip a day or two, you might slow your progress. It’s the same with braces and rubber bands. If you skip wearing your elastics, your teeth won’t move as planned.
5. Oral Hygiene Habits
Clean teeth move better. Buildup and other issues can delay your progress. You can help keep your treatment on track by brushing and flossing daily, along with attending routine checkups. Good habits protect your teeth and allow them to shift without delay.
Breaking Down the Timeline of Orthodontic Treatment
Getting braces or aligners from Dr. Straffon isn’t just one step. It’s a process made up of several phases. Having a roadmap can help you see how each phase takes time but also leads to results.
Consultation and Exam
You start by talking with our 303 Smiles team about your smile goals. We’ll take a close look at your teeth, jaw, and overall bite. Our Greenwood Village team can help you figure out your best plan. We’ll likely take photos or X-rays, too. You’ll walk away knowing how long treatment might last and what it will cost.
Planning Your Treatment
Dr. Straffon reviews your scans or X-rays. Then, he designs a plan for tooth movement. This part often happens behind the scenes, but it’s crucial. A clear plan saves time later because every step is mapped out.
Starting Your Treatment
Braces: Our team carefully places each bracket on your teeth. You might feel mild soreness for a few days.
Aligners: You get your first set of trays. You’ll swap them out as your teeth shift.
Regular Adjustments
You’ll visit our Greenwood Village office about every 6 to 8 weeks if you have braces. We’ll tighten your wires and check your progress. For aligners, you may switch trays every 1-2 weeks, with occasional office visits to make sure you’re on track. These routine check-ins keep your treatment moving. Skipping them can add to your total time.
Final Phase
Once your teeth reach their target positions, it’s time to remove the braces or finish your last aligner tray. But you’re not done yet. You still have one more important step: retainers.
Retainer Use
After braces come off, you want to maintain your new smile. Retainers hold your teeth in place while the bone and gum around them settle.
Common Questions About Orthodontic Timelines
Here are some questions Dr. Straffon frequently gets about treatment timelines.
1. Can I Speed Up My Orthodontic Treatment on My Own?
Yes. Please stick to the plan our team provides. Wear your rubber bands or aligners as directed. Eat healthy foods and skip crunchy or sticky snacks that can damage your braces. And keep brushing and flossing.
2. Will My Teeth Move Back If I Stop Wearing My Retainer?
They might. Teeth have a way of drifting back to their old spots if you don’t wear your retainers. To keep your smile stable, use your retainer for as long as Dr. Straffon asks.
3. Should I Be Worried About Pain Extending My Treatment?
It’s normal to feel some soreness the first few days after you get braces or switch aligner trays. Usually, any soreness fades quickly, and it rarely slows down your tooth movement.
4. What If I Move or Go on Vacation?
If you plan to be out of Greenwood Village for an extended time, let our team know. We can schedule your visits around your plans. Missing appointments or waiting too long between checkups can add a few weeks to your total time.
5. When Will I See Changes in My Smile?
Many people notice slight changes within the first few months. Spaces might close, or crooked teeth may look straighter. By the halfway point, you can often see clear progress.
Making the Most of Your Orthodontic Experience
Though braces or aligners might sound like a big commitment, they come with lasting rewards. Straight teeth can boost your self-esteem, help you chew, and even protect your oral health in the long run. Think about why you decided on braces or aligners in the first place. That can keep you motivated if the process ever feels long.
Here are a few tips:
- Stay Organized: If you wear aligners, keep them in a safe spot when you eat. Set a reminder on your phone so you don’t forget to put them back in.
- Keep Your Eye on the Goal: Snap a photo of your teeth before treatment starts. Compare later pictures to see how far you’ve come.
- Ask Questions: Our Greenwood Village team is here to help. If you ever feel confused or worried about your progress, let us know.
- Celebrate Milestones: Is it your halfway point? Treat yourself (in a braces-friendly way). Enjoy soft treats or plan a small get-together with family. Little celebrations keep you excited.
Ready to Begin?
If you’re in or near Greenwood Village, consider 303 Smiles for your care. The team can talk with you about metal braces, clear braces, or clear aligners. You’ll leave with a clear plan from Dr. Straffon—one that fits your goals and lifestyle. Visit us here to schedule your free consultation.