Invisalign or Braces Timeline: What to Expect From Start to Finish

Thinking about getting Invisalign or braces? Whether you’re just starting the journey or already have your consultation booked, it’s natural to wonder how long the whole process takes.

The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But at Ward + Campbell Orthodontics, we can break it down so you know what to expect at every stage, from your first visit to the day your treatment is finished.

Phase 1: The Complimentary Consultation (Week 1)

This is your first step. You’ll meet with one of our orthodontists to talk through your goals, ask questions, and get a personalized evaluation. 

What happens:

• No more impressions! Yay! Photos, digital X-rays, and a 3D scan of your teeth.

• A review of bite alignment, crowding, and jaw position

• A customized treatment plan, including options like metal braces, ceramic braces, or Invisalign

• A timeline estimate based on your needs

For most patients, this appointment takes about an hour. For all all patients, the consultation is free. 

Tip: Bring a list of questions and any dental records from your regular dentist. You can schedule a free consultation at any time.

Phase 2: Preparation & Placement (Weeks 2–4)

*depending on time and your desire to get started, we often have opportunities for patient to start treatment immediately after their consultation. 

Once you’ve decided to move forward, we’ll schedule the placement of your braces, typically 1–3 weeks after your consultation.

Here’s what you can expect:

Pre-Placement

• Any necessary dental work (cleaning, fillings, or extractions) should be completed
• Spacers may be inserted a week beforehand if your molars are too close together

Placement Day

• For braces: Brackets are bonded to your teeth and connected with archwires
• For Invisalign:  4-5  weeks after you have been scanned for your trays, we will have your customized plan ready and you will come in to have your first set of trays fit to your teeth.
  
• You’ll get detailed instructions for care and hygiene
  
• Your mouth may feel sore or tight for a few days as your teeth begin adjusting
  

This appointment takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. Once it’s done, you’re officially in treatment.

Phase 3: Active Treatment (6–30 Months)

This is the part most people think of when they hear “braces.”

Treatment time varies depending on:

• The severity of alignment or bite issues
  
• Your age and jaw development
  
• Your consistency with appointments, wearing elastics, and hygiene
  

On average:

• Minor corrections may take 6–12 months
  
• Moderate cases typically run 18–24 months
  
• Complex cases may extend up to 3 years
  

During this phase, you’ll come in every 6–12 weeks for adjustments. These visits keep your treatment on track and ensure your treatment is working properly.

Phase 4: Invisalign or Braces Removal (The Big Day!)

Once your teeth are in their final positions, we’ll schedule your removal appointment.

What to expect:

• Brackets and wires, or Invisalign attachments are carefully taken off
  
• Your teeth are cleaned and polished
  
• Final X-rays, pictures, and a 3D scan of your teeth will be taken for your retainer
  
• You’ll receive a customized retainer (and instructions on wearing it)
  

This appointment is usually quick and painless, and yes, you’ll feel amazing when it’s done.

Phase 5: Retainer Phase (Ongoing)

This part matters just as much as your Invisalign or braces did. After treatment, your teeth naturally want to shift back, and your retainer prevents that from happening.

Here’s what to know:

• You’ll wear a removable retainer at nights
  
• A fixed retainer may be recommended for certain bite types
  
• Consistency is key. Wearing your retainer ensures your new smile stays in place
  

We’ll give you care tips and show you how to keep your retainer clean and functional.

What Can Speed Up or Delay Your Treatment Timeline?

Some things are in your control, and others aren’t, but knowing the common factors helps:

Things That Help:

• Keeping every scheduled appointment
  
• Following all hygiene and food guidelines
  
• Reporting broken brackets or wires promptly
  
• Wearing rubber bands or appliances exactly as instructed (this is a big one!)
  

Things That Can Cause Delays:

• Skipping visits
  
• Damaging braces from hard/sticky foods
• Missing rubber band wear or ignoring care instructions
• Inconsistent wearing of Invisalign trays (less than 22 hours a day)
  
• Inconsistent retainer use post-treatment
  

We’ll work with you closely to avoid delays and make the process as smooth as possible.

Total Time Commitment: What’s the Average?

Here’s a quick breakdown:

From your first appointment to braces removal, most patients complete the process in 1.5 to 2 years.