How Long Will I Need Braces?

Hello again, El Paso! Dr. Teng is back with you for another orthodontic deep dive. This week, we’re tackling a question I hear all the time: “How long will I have to wear these things?”

I know, I know. Braces aren’t exactly known for being a quick fix. But the truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Treatment time varies from person to person depending on a number of factors.

What Impacts Treatment Time?

Here are some of the key things that influence how long you’ll need to wear braces:

Severity of Your Case

Simply put, the more complex your orthodontic issues, the longer your treatment is likely to take. A minor overbite might only require 12 months of treatment, while a severe underbite could take 24 months or more.

Your Age

While we can successfully treat patients of all ages, younger patients (especially children and adolescents) tend to respond to treatment more quickly than adults. This is because their jaws are still growing and developing.

Your Compliance

This is a big one! Following our instructions carefully, including wearing your elastics as directed and maintaining good oral hygiene, can significantly impact the efficiency of your treatment. Missed appointments or broken brackets can also cause delays.

The Type of Braces

Traditional metal braces are often the most efficient option, but we also offer clear aligners (like Invisalign) and ceramic braces, which may have slightly different treatment timelines.

The Average Timeline

While every case is unique, most patients wear braces for somewhere between 18 and 30 months.

Making the Most of Your Time in Braces

Here are a few tips to help ensure your treatment stays on track:

Keep those appointments! Regular check-ups allow us to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments.
Be a diligent brusher and flosser. Braces create more nooks and crannies for food to get trapped, so maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential.
Wear your elastics as instructed. Elastics help to correct your bite and ensure proper alignment.
Avoid sticky and hard foods. These can damage your braces and prolong your treatment time.

Have More Questions?

We’re always happy to discuss your individual treatment plan and estimated timeline in detail during your consultation. Come see us at one of our two convenient locations:

Westside: 5551 N Mesa, Suite A, El Paso, TX 79912. Call us at (915)-581-5476.
Eastside: 3030 Trawood Drive, El Paso, TX 79936. Reach us at (915) 855-6616.

See you soon!

Warmly,
Dr. Teng JT Orthodontics

i had an amazing experience with Dr Teng and all the staff. they were friendly and helpful:) i highly recommend them!!

Jackie Magallanes

My experience with Dr. Teng started with a transfer from a different orthodontist. They made my transfer easy. My treatment didn’t take long, and they made every step of the way as smooth as possible!

Erick Salazar

This has been the best experience and the best orthodontist to work with my teeth and I’m very grateful they gave me this beautiful smile. Thank you for Dr Jt and his staff for helping my out in this experience

Sylvia Mendoza

All the staff are very friendly and helpful I’d definitely recommend this establishment to anyone looking to get braces. They have done so much to help me with my teeth alignment. But it goes beyond that as it helps with breathing, sleeping, exercising and of course your confidence. Thank you Dr. Teng and staff I will definitely be bringing my kids when they are of age.

Alfred Hernandez

Dr. Teng and his whole staff are amazing! Super professional and kind, explaining everything clearly along the way. I highly recommend them.

Flavia Davis

My treatment couldn’t have gone better! Dr. Teng and his team were very helpful and so kind throughout the process.

Briana Gutierrez

What Impacts Treatment Time?

Making the Most of Your Time in Braces

Have More Questions?

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