How Long Does Getting Braces Take?
February 10, 2025
If you’re about to start your orthodontic journey, you might be wondering, “How long does it take to get braces put on?” The thought of sitting in the dental chair for hours can feel overwhelming, but the truth is, the process is often much smoother and quicker than you might expect.
Braces play a crucial role in correcting misaligned teeth, improving oral health, and enhancing your smile. Understanding the step-by-step process can help ease any concerns and prepare you for what’s ahead. In this article, we’ll break down each phase of getting braces, from your initial consultation to the final placement. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect and how to ensure a comfortable start to your orthodontic treatment.
Initial Consultation for Braces
Your initial consultation is a crucial first step in your orthodontic journey. This appointment allows your orthodontist to assess your unique dental needs and develop a personalized treatment plan. It’s an opportunity to ask questions, understand your options, and get a clear picture of what lies ahead.
During your consultation, your orthodontist will:
- Examine your teeth and bite to evaluate alignment issues.
- Take X-rays to get a detailed view of the positioning of your teeth and jaw.
- Create impressions or digital scans to map out your dental structure.
- Discuss treatment options, including the type of braces that will best suit your needs and goals.
If any preliminary treatments are necessary—such as cavity fillings, extractions, or gum treatment—your orthodontist will address these before moving forward with braces. In some cases, spacers may be placed between your molars to create the necessary room for orthodontic bands.
This initial stage is essential for ensuring that your braces work effectively from the very beginning. It sets the foundation for a smooth and successful treatment process, bringing you one step closer to achieving a healthier, more confident smile.
Preparation Before Placement for Braces
Before getting braces, your teeth must be in the best possible condition to ensure a smooth and effective treatment. Your orthodontist will conduct a thorough assessment to identify and address any dental issues that could interfere with the process. Taking the time to prepare properly helps prevent complications and ensures your braces work as intended from day one.
What Needs to Be Done?
- Professional Dental Cleaning – A deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar, preventing bacteria from getting trapped under the braces and reducing the risk of cavities and gum inflammation.
- Treating Cavities and Gum Health Issues – Any existing cavities must be filled, and gum disease should be treated before braces are applied to avoid delays or complications during treatment.
- Placement of Spacers (If Needed) – In some cases, small rubber spacers are placed between the molars a few days before getting braces. These create the necessary space for orthodontic bands, which help secure the braces in place.
By ensuring your teeth and gums are in optimal health before the placement, you’re setting the stage for a successful orthodontic experience. Once these preparations are complete, you’ll be scheduled for the big day—getting your braces!
The Braces Placement Procedure
The day has arrived! The actual placement of braces is a straightforward procedure and typically takes 1 to 2 hours.
Step-by-Step Breakdown:
- Cleaning and Drying the Teeth
- Your orthodontist will start by thoroughly cleaning and drying your teeth. This ensures that the brackets adhere properly.
- Applying Bonding Glue and Attaching Brackets
- A special bonding adhesive is applied to each tooth.
- Brackets (the small metal or ceramic pieces) are then placed onto the teeth.
- Placing the Archwire
- The orthodontist threads a thin metal wire (the archwire) through the brackets.
- This wire is what helps move your teeth into their correct positions over time.
- Securing with Elastic Bands
- Small elastic bands are placed to hold the archwire in place.
- You may have the option to choose colorful bands for a personalized touch.
Once everything is in place, your orthodontist will check that everything is properly aligned, and you’ll receive instructions on how to care for your new braces.
Post-Placement Expectations
Now that your braces are in place, you might be wondering what to expect in the days ahead. The adjustment period is different for everyone, but it’s completely normal to experience some mild discomfort as your mouth adapts to the new appliances. While braces are working to gradually shift your teeth into alignment, your gums, cheeks, and jaw may take a little time to get used to them.
Common Experiences After Getting Braces
In the first few days, you may notice:
- Mild soreness or pressure as your teeth begin adjusting to the braces.
- Slight irritation on the inner cheeks and lips from the brackets and wires.
- Increased saliva production, which is a temporary reaction as your mouth gets accustomed to the new appliances.
Fortunately, these sensations are temporary and can be managed with a few simple adjustments to your routine.
Tips to Manage Discomfort with Braces
To ease any soreness and make the transition as smooth as possible, consider the following:
- Stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, soups, and smoothies to avoid unnecessary pressure on your teeth.
- Use orthodontic wax to cover any areas where brackets may be rubbing against your cheeks or lips.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, if needed—but only as recommended by your orthodontist.
- Rinse with warm salt water to help soothe any gum irritation and promote healing.
Most of the initial discomfort will fade within a few days, and within a week, you'll likely feel much more comfortable with your braces. As your treatment progresses, adjustments may cause temporary soreness, but these sensations typically lessen over time as your teeth continue moving into their ideal positions.
Follow-Up Appointments
Braces require regular adjustments to ensure that your teeth continue shifting into the correct position as planned. These follow-up appointments are a critical part of your orthodontic treatment, helping to maintain steady progress and address any potential issues along the way.
Typically, follow-up visits are scheduled every four to eight weeks, depending on your specific treatment plan. During these appointments, your orthodontist will make necessary adjustments, such as tightening or replacing the archwire to keep the movement of your teeth on track. In some cases, new elastics or bands may be placed to improve alignment and ensure proper bite correction.
If you experience any issues, such as a broken bracket or loose wire, your orthodontist will address them during these visits. Regular check-ups not only help prevent delays in your treatment but also allow your orthodontist to monitor your progress and make modifications as needed. To achieve the best results in the shortest time possible, it’s important to attend every scheduled appointment and follow your orthodontist’s care instructions between visits.
Conclusion
Getting braces is an exciting step toward achieving a healthier, more confident smile. While the actual placement takes only 1 to 2 hours, the process involves multiple steps, from your initial consultation to follow-up appointments. The key to a smooth experience is being prepared, following your orthodontist’s guidance, and maintaining good oral hygiene throughout your treatment.
If you're ready to take the next step toward a beautifully aligned smile, Parsons Orthodontics is here to help. Our expert team provides personalized orthodontic care to ensure you achieve the best results. Schedule your consultation today and start your journey to a healthier smile!
