Waiting for something great is never easy—just ask anyone counting down to patio season at Maple Tavern or gearing up for summer hikes at Lake Rebecca Park Reserve! Orthodontic treatment is no different. Patients at Kottemann Orthodontics, led by Dr. William Kottemann, Dr. Kraig Kottemann, Dr. Scott Kottemann, and Dr. Alisha Holt, often wonder how long it will take to see their final results, and the answer depends on a mix of factors like age, treatment type, and consistency. Let’s explore what influences the timeline and how to make the process as smooth (and efficient) as possible.
What Factors Affect Orthodontic Treatment Time?
Every smile has a different starting point, which means treatment length isn’t the same for everyone. The Kottemann Orthodontics team considers several factors when determining how long a patient may need braces or aligners. Here’s what plays a role:
Age Plays a Role
- Younger patients, especially kids and teens, often see faster progress because their jaws are still growing.
- Adults can still get fantastic results, but since their bone structure is fully developed, tooth movement can take slightly longer.
Complexity of the Case
- Minor spacing or crowding can often be corrected in a year or less.
- More complex issues, such as bite misalignment or severe crowding, may take closer to two years.
Treatment Type
- Braces (Metal or Clear): Typically 18–24 months, though some cases finish sooner.
- Clear Aligners: Often 12–18 months, but patient compliance plays a huge role.
- Early Interceptive Treatment: When used in younger children, treatment may last 6–12 months before a second phase is needed.
Patient Compliance
- Wearing clear aligners for the recommended 20–22 hours per day is crucial for staying on track.
- Following instructions for rubber bands and retainers and avoiding foods that can damage braces helps keep everything on schedule.
Understanding these factors can help set realistic expectations. Up next, let’s look at whether certain treatments can speed up the process.
Can Treatment Be Completed Faster?
Nobody wants to spend more time in braces or aligners than necessary, and the good news is that orthodontic advancements have made treatment more efficient than ever. Dr. William Kottemann, Dr. Kraig Kottemann, Dr. Scott Kottemann, and Dr. Alisha Holt use modern techniques at Kottemann Orthodontics to help patients achieve results as quickly as possible without compromising quality.
Advanced Treatment Options
- High-Tech Brackets & Wires – Today’s braces use lightweight materials and memory-shape wires that apply continuous, gentle pressure to move teeth efficiently.
- Clear Aligner Advancements – With precise treatment planning, aligners can shift teeth more effectively than ever before, sometimes shortening overall treatment time.
- Accelerated Orthodontics – Some patients may be candidates for devices or techniques designed to stimulate bone remodeling, which can speed up tooth movement.
Staying on Track
While technology plays a role, patient cooperation is just as important. Keeping up with scheduled appointments, wearing rubber bands or aligners as instructed, and maintaining good oral hygiene all help prevent unnecessary delays.
Next, let’s explore what patients can do to keep their treatment timeline on schedule.
How to Keep Your Treatment on Track
While Dr. William Kottemann, Dr. Kraig Kottemann, Dr. Scott Kottemann, and Dr. Alisha Holt use the latest orthodontic technology to speed up treatment, patients play a huge role in keeping everything on schedule. Small habits can make a big difference in how smoothly things progress.
Stick to Your Appointment Schedule
- Regular check-ins at Kottemann Orthodontics allow your orthodontist to make necessary adjustments.
- Skipping or delaying visits can prolong treatment time.
Follow Your Orthodontist’s Instructions
- If you’re wearing clear aligners, keeping them in for 20–22 hours per day is non-negotiable.
- Rubber bands, expanders, and other appliances only work if worn as prescribed.
Take Care of Your Braces or Aligners
- Damaged brackets or lost aligners can add weeks to treatment.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods, and store aligners in their case when not in use.
Keep Up with Oral Hygiene
- Gum inflammation or cavities can slow progress if dental work is needed mid-treatment.
- Brushing and flossing properly helps keep everything moving forward.
Staying consistent with these habits can help patients finish their treatment on time—or even a little early. Next, let’s address some common questions about orthodontic timelines.
Common Questions About Treatment Time
Patients at Kottemann Orthodontics often have questions about how long their orthodontic care will take. Dr. William Kottemann, Dr. Kraig Kottemann, Dr. Scott Kottemann, and Dr. Alisha Holt have heard it all—so let’s break it down with some quick answers.
Can I speed up my treatment?
While advanced technology can help, the best way to keep treatment moving is by following your orthodontist’s instructions. Wearing aligners as directed and attending regular appointments make a big difference.
Do clear aligners work faster than braces?
Sometimes! Aligners can move teeth efficiently for mild to moderate cases. More complex cases may take a similar amount of time as braces.
What if I miss an appointment?
Rescheduling ASAP is key. Delaying adjustments or check-ins can add extra weeks to treatment.
Do I have to change what I eat?
Braces require some food restrictions—skip the popcorn at Mann Theatre in Plymouth! Clear aligners? Just take them out before eating.
Will I need a retainer after treatment?
Yes! Retainers help keep teeth in place so all that effort doesn’t go to waste.
Now that you have a better idea of what to expect, the process might not seem so overwhelming. No matter your treatment plan, Kottemann Orthodontics will be with you every step of the way to make sure everything stays on track.
The Time Will Pass Anyway—Why Not Smile Through It?
Waiting for the perfect smile might feel like a commitment, but the results last a lifetime. With expert care from Dr. William Kottemann, Dr. Kraig Kottemann, Dr. Scott Kottemann, and Dr. Alisha Holt, your time in treatment will be well spent. No matter if you’re in Maple Grove, Chaska, Orono, or Plymouth, Kottemann Orthodontics is ready to help you get started. Schedule your free consultation today and take the first step toward a smile you’ll love for years to come!