The braces process takes 18 to 24 months on average for most patients in the United States. You start with a consultation and records appointment, move to braces installation, attend monthly adjustments, and finish with removal followed by the retainer phase. The exact timeline depends on your age, case complexity, and how closely you follow the plan.
You book the first orthodontic visit and wonder exactly what the braces process will look like from start to finish. Parents scheduling for teens, adults starting treatment later in life, and anyone comparing fixed braces with clear aligners all want the same clear picture. This guide walks you through every stage of the braces process so you know what happens at each appointment, how long it really takes, and the practical details that make the difference between smooth treatment and surprises. You will finish ready to ask smart questions at your consultation and set realistic expectations for the full journey.
The Braces Process Step by Step
The braces process follows a clear sequence that every orthodontist follows. Each step builds on the last so your teeth move safely and predictably.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Records
Your first appointment lasts 45 to 90 minutes. The orthodontist examines your bite, takes photos, X-rays, and 3D scans or impressions to create detailed records. This is when you discuss goals, review treatment options, and receive a personalized timeline and cost estimate. Many offices offer this visit at no charge or credit it toward treatment if you start.
Step 2: Braces Installation Appointment
Getting braces on usually takes 60 to 90 minutes. The orthodontist cleans and dries your teeth, places a small amount of adhesive on each tooth, positions the brackets, and cures them with a special light. Next comes the archwire threaded through the brackets and secured with ligatures or clips. You leave with instructions on care, foods to avoid, and what soreness to expect over the next few days. Teeth often feel tenderest 6 to 8 hours after the appointment.
Step 3: Monthly Adjustments
You return every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments. The orthodontist checks progress, changes or tightens the archwire, replaces elastics or power chains, and fixes any broken parts. These visits last 15 to 30 minutes and keep your teeth moving on schedule. Consistent attendance prevents delays that stretch the braces process by weeks or months.
Step 4: Braces Removal and Retainer Phase
When the orthodontist confirms your bite is correct, removal takes 30 to 60 minutes. The brackets come off easily, adhesive is polished away, and you get a custom retainer the same day. You wear the retainer full time for the first few months, then nights only for life to lock in your new smile.
Factors That Affect the Braces Process Timeline
The braces process timeline stays predictable for most patients but stretches when appointments are missed, brackets break, or rubber bands are skipped. Non-compliance with elastics is the top reason orthodontists see treatment run 3 to 6 months longer. Poor oral hygiene leads to cavities or white spots that pause adjustments. Complex cases with extractions or TADs naturally take longer. Younger patients whose jaws are still growing often finish Phase 2 faster than adults.
Braces Process Cost and Pricing Guide
The full braces process cost depends on the type of braces you choose and how long treatment lasts.
Price Comparison Table
| Brace Type | Average Cost (USD) | Treatment Time | Best For |
| Traditional metal braces | $3,000–$7,000 | 18–24 months | Most malocclusions, budget-friendly |
| Ceramic braces | $4,000–$8,500 | 18–24 months | Aesthetic focus, moderate cases |
| Lingual braces | $8,000–$13,000 | 18–36 months | Adults wanting completely hidden braces |
| Self-ligating braces | $4,000–$8,000 | 12–24 months | Patients wanting fewer adjustments |
| Clear aligners (Invisalign or Spark) | $3,000–$8,000 | 6–18 months | Mild cases, removable convenience |
Cost Breakdown by Age Group
- Children (7–11): $3,000–$5,500. Phase 1 keeps the process shorter and less expensive.
- Teens (12–17): $3,500–$6,500. Full Phase 2 treatment is the most common.
- Adults (18+): $4,000–$7,000 or higher for longer cases.
What Drives Price Up or Down
Case complexity raises the total the most. Shorter treatments for minor spacing lower it. Location matters—coastal cities run 20–30% higher. Check the state cost index on Brass Smile for your area.
Insurance, HSA/FSA, and Payment Options
Most dental plans cap orthodontic benefits at $1,000–$3,000 lifetime maximum and cover patients under 19 only. You can use HSA or FSA funds tax-free for the entire braces process.
Without full coverage, discount dental plans, orthodontic schools like NYU or University of Michigan, and office payment plans help. Expect 20–30% down and $100–$300 monthly over 18–36 months. CareCredit is a common 0% interest option.
Hidden Costs to Budget For
Retainers run $150–$600 after removal. Emergency visits for a broken bracket cost $50–$150. Lost elastics or extra refinements add up if you miss appointments.
About BrassSmile
BrassSmile launched in 2023 after founder Alex Rivera spent two years guiding her own children through orthodontic treatment. She saw the need for honest, independent information that cuts through marketing hype and affiliate blogs.
Editorial Team
- Alex Rivera, Founder & Lead Writer (LinkedIn)
- Dr. Lisa Chen, DMD, ABO diplomate, Medical Reviewer (LinkedIn)
- Jordan Patel, DDS, Content Editor
Every article receives review by a board-certified orthodontist before publication. We update this page every six months or sooner when AAO or ADA guidelines change. We cite only peer-reviewed sources and official data from the American Dental Association (ADA), American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), and CDC dental health statistics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first step in the braces process?
The first step in the braces process is the initial consultation and records appointment where the orthodontist examines your bite and creates a custom treatment plan.
How long does getting braces on take?
Getting braces on takes 60 to 90 minutes. The orthodontist bonds brackets and places the first archwire so your teeth begin moving right away.
How often are braces adjustment appointments?
Braces adjustment appointments happen every 4 to 8 weeks. Each visit lasts 15 to 30 minutes and keeps your teeth moving on schedule.
Does missing appointments affect the braces process?
Missing appointments lengthens the braces process by weeks or months because progress pauses until you return.
What happens during the retainer phase?
During the retainer phase you wear a custom retainer full time for several months, then nights only for life to keep teeth from shifting.
Can the braces process take longer than 24 months?
The braces process can take longer than 24 months for severe malocclusion, extractions, or poor compliance with elastics and hygiene.
How much does the full braces process cost?
The full braces process costs $3,000 to $13,000 depending on type. Most patients pay $3,500 to $7,000 for traditional metal braces.
Do clear aligners follow the same braces process?
Clear aligners follow a similar braces process with records, regular check-ins, and a retainer phase, but you change trays at home instead of monthly adjustments.
What should I expect after braces removal?
After braces removal you receive your retainer the same day and feel smooth teeth for the first time in months.
How can I make the braces process go faster?
You can make the braces process go faster by attending every appointment, wearing elastics exactly as directed, and keeping excellent oral hygiene.