Medically reviewed by Oghenefejiro Okifo | MD, Harvard Medical School | Henry Ford Hospital - Detroit, MI on November 22nd, 2023. Updated on May 27th, 2026
Orthodontic appliances apply 20-26 grams of force per tooth to gradually shift position through bone remodeling, with most treatments lasting 18-24 months for adults and 12-18 months for children.
Ceramic brackets cost 20-50% more than metal but are nearly invisible, while lingual systems placed behind teeth can add 6-12 months to treatment time due to technical complexity.
Plaque accumulation increases 3-5 times with fixed appliances, requiring interdental brushes, water flossers, and fluoride rinses to prevent white spot lesions that affect 50% of patients.
Clear aligner systems like Invisalign require 20-22 hours daily wear and work best for mild to moderate crowding, with compliance rates dropping below 80% leading to treatment failure.
Post-treatment relapse occurs in 70% of cases without proper retention—fixed retainers on lower incisors reduce this to 10%, while removable retainers need nightly wear indefinitely after the initial 6-month full-time period.
Braces cost between $3,000 and $10,000 depending on the type and length of treatment - and choosing the right type can make a real difference in comfort, cost, and results. Braces are dental appliances that apply gentle pressure to teeth over time, gradually shifting them into the correct position. Below we cover every type of braces, how they work, how long treatment takes, and what to expect along the way.
There are several types of braces to choose from, depending on your needs and preferences:
Metal/Traditional Braces: These are the most common type of braces, made of stainless steel brackets and wires. They are the most noticeable but also the most effective.
Ceramic Braces: Also called clear braces, these work just like metal braces but are made of tooth-colored ceramic, making them less noticeable.
Lingual Braces: These braces attach to the backs of your teeth, keeping them hidden from view. They can be more difficult to clean and adjust to than other types of braces.
Self-Ligating Braces: These braces use clips instead of rubber bands to hold the wire in place, which can mean fewer adjustments and less friction.
Clear Aligners (Invisalign): A popular alternative to traditional braces, clear aligners are removable plastic trays that fit over your teeth. They are nearly invisible and can be removed for eating and cleaning.
Braces consist of brackets that are attached to your teeth, and wires that connect the brackets. The wires are tightened over time, putting pressure on your teeth and gradually moving them into the correct position. You may also have rubber bands, springs, or other appliances to help with the process.
Treatment with braces typically takes 1-3 years, depending on the severity of your case. You will need to visit your orthodontist every 4-8 weeks for adjustments and progress checks.
One of the most common questions people ask before starting orthodontic treatment is how long they'll need to wear braces. The honest answer: it depends on how much movement your teeth need, but most people can expect to be in treatment for 12 to 36 months.
Mild cases — minor crowding or small spacing issues — often resolve in 12 to 18 months. These are typically patients whose bite is already fairly well aligned and only a few teeth need repositioning.
Moderate cases — more noticeable crowding, slight overbite or underbite — generally take 18 to 24 months. This is the most common range for teens and adults getting braces for the first time.
Complex cases — significant jaw misalignment, severe crowding, or bite problems that require elastics or additional appliances — can take 24 to 36 months or longer. In some situations, jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) may be needed alongside braces, which extends the overall timeline.
Several factors influence treatment length beyond the starting condition of your teeth:
Age: Teeth move more easily in younger patients because the bone is still developing. Adults often see slightly longer treatment times than teens.
Type of braces: Traditional metal braces are typically the fastest option for complex cases. Clear aligners can be just as efficient for mild to moderate cases, but only if worn 20–22 hours per day as prescribed.
Patient compliance: Missing orthodontist appointments, breaking brackets, or not wearing rubber bands as directed all add time to treatment.
Retention phase: After the braces come off, you'll enter the retention phase. This isn't counted in the active treatment window, but it's just as important — skipping your retainer is one of the most common reasons teeth shift back.
The best way to get an accurate timeline is to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist. They'll take X-rays, assess your bite, and give you a realistic estimate based on your specific case. If the timeline feels long, keep in mind that most people find the result — a straighter, healthier smile — well worth the wait.
Proper oral hygiene is especially important when you have braces. Food can easily get stuck in the brackets and wires, leading to plaque buildup and tooth decay. To keep your teeth and gums healthy:
Brush your teeth after every meal with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Use a Proxabrush or "Christmas tree" brush to clean between the braces.
Floss daily using a floss threader or orthodontic flosser.
Avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods that can damage your braces.
Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups.
If a bracket or wire breaks, contact your orthodontist right away to schedule a repair. In the meantime, you can use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges and relieve irritation.
Once your braces come off, your teeth will be straight, but they won't stay that way on their own. You'll need to wear a retainer to keep them in their new position. Retainers can be removable or fixed, and you'll typically wear them full-time for 4-6 months, then only at night after that.
To keep your retainer clean, brush it daily with a soft toothbrush and soak it in a denture cleanser once a week. Avoid exposing it to heat, which can warp the plastic.
If you're considering braces for yourself or your child, the first step is to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist. They will examine your teeth, take X-rays and impressions, and recommend the best course of treatment for your individual needs.
Braces cost typically ranges from $3,000 to $7,000 for traditional metal braces, while ceramic braces run $4,000–$8,000 and clear aligners like Invisalign can reach $8,000–$10,000. Treatment length, case complexity, and your location all affect the final price. Many orthodontists offer monthly payment plans, and dental insurance often covers a portion — commonly $1,000–$2,000 — for patients under 18.
Remember, a straight, healthy smile is an investment that can last a lifetime. With proper care and maintenance, your braces will give you the confidence to show off your smile for years to come.
For more information on braces and orthodontic treatment, visit:
Braces cost typically ranges from $3,000 to $10,000 depending on the type. Traditional metal braces are the most affordable at $3,000–$7,000, while clear aligners like Invisalign can reach $8,000–$10,000. Dental insurance often covers $1,000–$2,000 for patients under 18, and most orthodontists offer payment plans to spread out the cost.
The main types of braces are metal (traditional), ceramic (tooth-colored), lingual (hidden behind teeth), self-ligating, and clear aligners like Invisalign. Metal braces are the most effective for complex cases, while clear aligners offer the most discreet option for mild to moderate alignment issues. Your orthodontist can help determine which type suits your needs and budget.
Most people wear braces for 12 to 36 months depending on the severity of their case. Mild crowding may be corrected in as little as 12 months, while complex bite issues can take 2–3 years. Following your orthodontist's instructions — including wearing rubber bands and keeping appointments — helps keep treatment on track.
Braces can cause soreness and pressure, especially in the first few days after placement and after each adjustment appointment. The discomfort is typically mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. Orthodontic wax can be used to cushion any brackets or wires that irritate the inside of your cheeks.
Yes — wearing a retainer after braces is essential to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Most people wear a removable retainer full-time for the first 4–6 months, then switch to nights-only wear long term. Skipping the retainer is one of the most common reasons people need orthodontic treatment again.
Successful orthodontic treatment depends on choosing the right system for your specific bite issues and maintaining excellent oral hygiene throughout the 1-3 year process. The biggest factor in long-term success is committing to lifelong retainer wear, as teeth naturally tend to shift back toward their original positions. If you're considering orthodontic treatment, Doctronic can help you understand which option might work best for your situation.
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