Determine the Right Treatment for You

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, one of the first questions you might have is, "How long will this take?" The answer varies from person to person, depending on several factors like the complexity of your dental issues, the type of treatment you choose, and how well you follow your orthodontist’s recommendations.

At Stroede Orthodontics, serving Olathe, Overland Park, and Spring Hill, KS, we understand that knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable with your orthodontic journey. Here’s what you need to know about the timeline for orthodontic treatment.

1. Severity of Your Dental Issues

The more complex your orthodontic case, the longer treatment will likely take. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Mild Alignment Issues (Minor Crowding or Spacing):
  Treatment typically takes 6 to 12 months. These cases involve slight adjustments and may be treated effectively with clear aligners or braces.
• Moderate Misalignment (Gaps, Mild Bite Problems):
  Expect treatment to last between 12 to 24 months. This category includes common orthodontic issues like overbites, underbites, and moderate crowding.
• Severe Cases (Complex Bite Issues, Jaw Misalignment):
  Treatment may take 24 to 36 months or longer. Severe cases might also involve additional procedures, such as jaw surgery in Olathe or Overland Park, to achieve the best results.

A personalized consultation with an orthodontist will help determine the expected duration based on your unique needs.

2. Type of Orthodontic Treatment

Your choice of treatment can significantly affect the length of your orthodontic journey:

• Traditional Braces:
  Braces are often recommended for complex cases and typically require 18 to 36 months of treatment. They provide precise control over tooth movement, making them effective for a wide range of issues.
• Clear Aligners:
  Clear aligners are a popular choice for mild to moderate alignment issues and can achieve results in as little as 6 to 18 months. However, success depends on wearing them consistently—at least 20-22 hours per day.
• Early Orthodontic Treatment:
  For younger patients, early intervention can help guide jaw development, potentially reducing the need for more extensive treatment later. In some cases, early orthodontic care can shorten overall treatment time.

3. Patient Compliance

One of the most critical factors influencing treatment time is patient compliance. Following your orthodontist’s instructions can help keep your treatment on track and even shorten the timeline. Here’s how you can stay on schedule:

• Wear your appliances as directed.
• Attend all scheduled appointments for adjustments and progress checks.
• Maintain excellent oral hygiene to prevent delays caused by dental issues like cavities or gum disease.

If dental issues do arise, you may need additional treatments, such as wisdom teeth extraction in Olathe or dental implants in Overland Park, which can extend your timeline.

4. Age of the Patient

Orthodontic treatment is generally faster in children and teenagers because their jaws are still growing, making teeth easier to move. However, adults can also achieve excellent results—treatment might just take a bit longer due to the maturity of their bone structure.

That said, adults often see great results with cosmetic enhancements like veneers in Olathe or Overland Park, paired with orthodontic care to achieve a perfect smile.

5. The Retention Phase

Once your braces come off or you’ve completed clear aligner treatment, you’ll enter the retention phase. This involves wearing a retainer to maintain your results and prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions. While this phase doesn’t actively move your teeth, it’s essential for long-term success.

Combining Orthodontics with Other Dental Treatments

In some cases, orthodontic treatment is part of a comprehensive dental plan. For example:

• Veneers in Overland Park or Olathe can enhance the appearance of your smile after alignment is complete.
• Teeth whitening treatments can brighten your smile once your orthodontic work is done.
• Dental implants or dental crowns in Olathe may be necessary to restore missing or damaged teeth after orthodontic correction.

Your orthodontist will coordinate with your general dentist or oral surgeon to ensure the best possible outcome.

Ready to Start Your Orthodontic Journey?

No matter your age or dental needs, the team at Stroede Orthodontics is here to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Whether you’re in Olathe, Overland Park, or Spring Hill, KS, we offer personalized orthodontic treatment plans tailored to your unique situation.

From orthodontic care to complementary services like jaw surgery in Olathe, veneers in Overland Park, or dental implants, we’re here to support your smile goals every step of the way.



Contact us today to schedule your consultation and find out how long your orthodontic journey will take!