Duration of orthodontic treatment typically ranges from one to three years, depending on the growth of the patient’s mouth and face, and severity of the problem. Patients grow at different rates and respond differently to orthodontic treatment.
Factors such as patient compliance also play an important role in treatment duration. Patients who are compliant in brushing, wearing of rubber bands, as well as keeping scheduled appointments are more likely to finish on time. Patients who eat foods that cause bracket breakage, don’t brush, or are non-compliant with prescribed instructions will likely not finish on time.
Dr. Engen will give you what he believes to be a realistic estimate of treatment time. It should be noted that Dr. Engen treats to the result, not to the calendar. If treatment time goes beyond the estimate, it is because you do not yet have the result we want. If we go over on our time estimate, it does not cost you any more.
If you are interested in accelerating your treatment, please visit our section on Accelerated Orthodontics.