Orthodontic Treatment Timeline in Gainesville and Oakwood, GA
Step 1: First Visit and Smile Evaluation
Your timeline begins with a friendly exam and conversation about your concerns. For children, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first checkup by age 7. At this age, the orthodontist can spot early signs of crowding or bite issues and decide whether to start treatment soon or simply monitor growth.
Step 2: Records and Custom Plan
If treatment is recommended, the team gathers diagnostic records such as photos and X-rays. For Invisalign, advanced 3D planning helps map your tooth movement from start to finish. You will review your options and costs, then choose the appliance that fits your lifestyle and treatment needs.
Step 3: Choose Your Appliance
Sosebee & Britt Orthodontics offers several proven options, and each can fit into your orthodontic treatment timeline.
- Metal braces: Small, durable brackets with the option for colorful elastics.
- Clarity ADVANCED ceramic braces: Clear brackets that blend in with teeth for a low-profile look.
- SmartClip self-ligating braces: A modern bracket design that holds the wire without elastic ties and supports efficient tooth movement.
- Invisalign clear aligners: A nearly invisible, removable system for teens and adults who want a discreet path to a straight smile.
Your orthodontist will recommend the appliance that matches your case and goals.
Step 4: Active Treatment and Visit Rhythm
During active treatment, you will have regular checkups to track progress and make adjustments. Many adult cases are seen about every 8 to 10 weeks. Invisalign users often enjoy easy, efficient visits since aligners are changed on a set schedule at home with periodic in-office checks. Typical comprehensive treatment for many patients finishes in about 15 to 18 months, though complex cases or specific bite corrections may take longer. Teens often progress well because most or all permanent teeth have erupted and their metabolism supports tooth movement.
Step 5: Special Considerations for Kids and Teens
Some children benefit from early treatment to guide jaw growth, create space for incoming teeth, reduce the risk of impaction, or correct habits like thumb-sucking. If a child is not ready for braces yet, the office may place them in an observation program with growth checkups about every 6 to 8 months. For adolescents, comprehensive treatment is common between ages 11 and 15 when permanent teeth are in and bite issues are easier to see.
Step 6: Life With Braces or Aligners
You will get clear instructions on brushing, flossing, and foods to avoid so your appliances stay clean and intact. Sticky, hard, and extra-crunchy foods can break brackets or bend wires. Good daily care helps keep gums healthy and treatment on time.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
As you near the end of active treatment, the team focuses on fine details such as bite balance and tooth edges. For braces, this may include lighter wires and minor adjustments. For aligners, it may include additional trays to perfect small movements.
Step 8: Retainers and Smile Protection
Once teeth are aligned, retainers hold them in their new positions while bone and gums stabilize. Most patients wear removable retainers full time for the first two months, then nighttime wear long term to maintain results. Some patients also receive a fixed retainer wire behind the front teeth. Wearing and caring for retainers as directed is the key to keeping your new smile straight for years to come.
Step 9: When Jaw Surgery Is Part of the Plan
Certain adult or severe bite problems may require orthognathic surgery in partnership with an oral surgeon. Your orthodontist will explain timing and how braces or aligners work with surgery to achieve a healthy, stable bite.
Your Next Step
Whether you are considering metal braces, ceramic braces, SmartClip self-ligating braces, or Invisalign, the team at Sosebee & Britt Orthodontics builds a personalized plan and timeline for you. If you are in Gainesville or Oakwood, GA, schedule your first visit to learn what your smile needs and how long it may take.