How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment Take?

Starting orthodontic treatment is an exciting step toward a smile you can feel proud of — but we know one of the first things you want to know is, “How long will it take?” The short answer: it depends. Every smile is unique, and so is every treatment plan. At Molly Hottenstein Orthodontics, we take the time to get to know you, your goals, and your lifestyle so we can give you the most accurate timeline possible. Whether you’re a teen starting braces for the first time or an adult choosing clear aligners, we’ll guide you through the process so you know exactly what to expect.

What Affects Your Treatment Time

Several factors influence how long you’ll be in treatment, and some of them are in your control! Here are the big ones:

Type of Treatment
Metal braces, ceramic braces, and Invisalign® clear aligners all work differently. Some treatments move teeth more quickly than others, while others focus more on aesthetics during the process.

Severity of Your Case
If we’re making small adjustments, your timeline will likely be shorter. If we’re correcting a more complex bite issue, expect more time so we can achieve the healthiest, longest-lasting result.

Your Age
Younger patients often see faster results because their jaws are still growing, making tooth movement easier. Adults can still get incredible results — it just may take a bit longer.

Your Commitment
Wearing aligners as prescribed, keeping up with elastic wear, and showing up for appointments all make a big difference. Your dedication can keep your treatment moving right on schedule.

General Timelines to Keep in Mind

While everyone’s journey is different, here’s what we typically see:

• Braces: Around 18–24 months, sometimes a little less or a little more depending on your case.
  
  
• Invisalign®: Often 12–18 months, but can vary based on complexity and how consistently you wear your aligners.
  
  
• Early Orthodontics: For younger patients with interceptive treatment, timelines can be shorter — but may be followed by a second phase later on.
  
  

We’ll always give you an estimated finish date during your consultation, and we’ll keep you updated as we go.

Why Your Check-Ups Matter

Think of your regular visits as your “smile tune-ups.” Every appointment allows Dr. Molly to:

• Adjust your braces or provide your next set of aligners
  
  
• Make sure your teeth are moving as planned
  
  
• Address any concerns you have along the way
  
  

Skipping or delaying these visits can push your end date back, so it’s worth keeping your appointments a top priority.

How to Help Keep Your Treatment on Track

You play a big role in making sure your treatment stays on schedule. Here’s how:

• Follow every instruction from Dr. Molly — especially when it comes to elastics or aligner wear.
  
  
• Keep your teeth and appliances clean to avoid delays caused by dental issues.
  
  
• Avoid foods that can damage your braces or slow your progress.
  
  
• Let us know right away if something feels off or an appliance breaks.
  
  

The more we work together, the smoother — and faster — your journey will be.

Let’s Map Out Your Smile Journey in Wyomissing

At Molly Hottenstein Orthodontics in Wyomissing, we believe orthodontic treatment should be just as much about the experience as the results. From the moment you walk into our bright, welcoming Wyomissing office to the day your braces come off, we’ll make sure you feel informed, comfortable, and excited about every step.

If you’re ready to find out how long it might take to achieve your perfect smile, come see us for a free consultation. We’ll create a personalized plan, give you a clear timeline, and get you started on a path that’s just right for you.