Braces begin working within hours to days, as teeth start shifting and soreness often sets in around 4-6 hours. Visible changes, like initial straightening or gap closure, typically appear in weeks to a few months.
Initial Effects
Teeth movement starts almost immediately upon brace placement, with noticeable soreness confirming activity within the first day. For minor crowding or spacing, substantial progress can occur in 4 months.
Full Treatment Time
Complete results average 18-24 months, though simple cases may finish in 6-12 months and complex bite issues extend to 2-3 years. Factors like age, compliance, and brace type influence the duration.
Key Influences
- Patient age: Children often see faster, more predictable movement.
- Severity: Mild crowding takes 6-8 months; severe malocclusions need 15-24 months.
- Compliance: Following hygiene and diet rules speeds progress.