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

Patients Love Us!

Can’t thank Dr. Teng and his entire staff enough for the care and results I received! I originally went to another orthodontist who recommended jaw surgery for my slightly receded jaw and bite issues. Not fully comfortable with such an invasive route, I decided to get a second opinion—and I’m so glad I did.

Dr. Teng took the time to really assess my case and offered a non-invasive treatment plan that ended up working beautifully. Not only did he correct my bite, but he also helped improve the alignment of my jaw—all without surgery. The process was smooth, the results exceeded my expectations, and every appointment was met with kindness, professionalism, and patience from the entire team.

If you’re looking for an orthodontist who genuinely cares about their patients and goes the extra mile to find solutions that fit your needs, Dr. Teng is the one. I’m so grateful I found him!

Kurt Rey

Update: Grateful for the turnaround in care

I originally left a review expressing disappointment with my experience, particularly around communication and the outcome of my treatment. However, after a recent visit, I feel it’s important to update my review to reflect the positive changes.

At my latest appointment, the team took my concerns seriously, addressed every issue I raised, and made real efforts to fix the problems. They also offered a sincere apology and took full accountability for what had gone wrong previously—which I really appreciated.

My smile is now back on track, and I’m genuinely happy with the results I’m seeing. I’m grateful they took the time to listen and act on feedback. It made a big difference and changed my overall perspective on the care they provide.

Aloe Valenzuela

Today was the day for my braces removal. Eliana helped me again and as always she makes the process fun and explains everything to me so I know what to expect.

sharita gonzalez

We are extremely happy with the results of my son's braces treatment at JT Orthodontics. From start to finish, the service was great. The entire staff was always friendly, and we were consistently seen in a timely manner. Dr. Teng took the time to explain every step of the process thoroughly, ensuring that we were always informed. We couldn't be more pleased with the outcome and highly recommend Dr. Teng and his entire team for their professionalism and care!

Cristina Guillen

The best experience I’ve ever had in a dentist office. Incredible staff, always made me feel super comfortable and Dr. Teng is the best, incredible attention to detail. Gave me back my pretty smile.

Ana Ramos

Best choice ever!! Dr. Teng and the staff at JT Orthodontics are absolutely amazing. The treatment plan was clearly explained and excellently executed. I could not be more pleased with the final result and I absolutely love my smile. If I could give more than five stars, I would. —JJ

Mel P.