Getting braces is a step-by-step process that takes between 1 to 3 years and costs between $3,000 to $7,000 on average. The process includes six main steps: getting a referral, having a consultation, creating a treatment plan, placing the braces, regular adjustments, and finally removing them.
This guide will walk you through each step so you know exactly what to expect. From your first appointment to the day you get your braces off, we’ll cover everything you need to know about costs, timelines, and what happens at each visit.
Why Do People Get Braces?
Braces fix many common dental problems that affect both how your teeth look and work. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, approximately 4.5 million Americans are currently undergoing orthodontic treatment, showing just how common these issues are.
Common Problems Braces Fix
Crooked or crowded teeth make it hard to brush and floss properly. This can lead to cavities and gum disease over time.
Bite problems like overbites, underbites, or crossbites can cause jaw pain and make chewing difficult. Some people also have trouble speaking clearly.
Gaps between teeth can trap food and affect how you smile. While small gaps might just be cosmetic, larger ones can cause problems with eating.
Protruding front teeth are more likely to get damaged in accidents or sports. They can also affect speech and confidence.
Step 1: Getting a Referral or Scheduling Your First Visit
Most people start their braces journey through their family dentist. During regular checkups, dentists look for signs that you might need braces. If they see crowding, spacing, or bite problems, they’ll recommend visiting an orthodontist.
Do You Need a Referral?
You don’t actually need a referral to see an orthodontist. You can call and make an appointment yourself. However, having your dentist’s recommendation is helpful because they know your dental history and can explain what they’ve noticed.
When to See an Orthodontist
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This doesn’t mean getting braces right away – it just helps catch problems early.
For adults, there’s no age limit for braces. By 2022, an estimated one million Americans over 18 wore braces, and this number keeps growing.
Step 2: Initial Consultation and Examination
Your first visit to the orthodontist is all about getting to know your mouth and what problems need fixing. This appointment usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes and doesn’t hurt at all.
What Happens During the Consultation
Physical examination – The orthodontist will look closely at your teeth, gums, and jaw. They’ll check how your teeth fit together when you bite down.
X-rays and photos – Digital X-rays show the roots of your teeth and any hidden problems. Photos help track your progress later.
Discussion of concerns – This is your chance to talk about what bothers you most about your teeth. Maybe you’re self-conscious about gaps, or perhaps you have jaw pain.
Treatment options – The orthodontist will explain different types of braces and which ones might work best for your situation.
Getting Impressions
Sometimes during this first visit, the orthodontist will take impressions of your teeth. This involves biting down on a putty-like material that hardens to create an exact copy of your teeth. These days, many offices use digital scanners instead, which is much more comfortable.
Questions to Ask
Don’t be shy about asking questions! Here are some good ones:
- How long will treatment take?
- What type of braces do you recommend for me?
- How much will it cost?
- What payment options do you offer?
- How often will I need to come in for adjustments?
Step 3: Treatment Planning and Getting Ready
After your consultation, the orthodontist creates a custom treatment plan just for you. Every mouth is different, so your plan will be designed to fix your specific problems.
Creating Your Treatment Plan
Using the X-rays, photos, and impressions from your consultation, the orthodontist maps out exactly how your teeth need to move. They’ll determine:
- Which type of braces will work best
- How long treatment will take
- What movements need to happen first
- Whether you need any special procedures
Pre-Treatment Preparation
Sometimes you’ll need to get your mouth ready before braces go on:
Dental cleaning – Your teeth need to be spotless before brackets can be attached. Some people need a deep cleaning first.
Cavity treatment – Any cavities must be filled before braces go on. It’s much harder to fix them once brackets are in the way.
Spacers or separators – If your back teeth are too close together, tiny rubber bands might be placed between them a week before your braces appointment. This creates room for the metal bands that go around your back teeth.
Tooth extraction – In cases of severe crowding, one or more teeth might need to be removed to make space. This isn’t as scary as it sounds, and your orthodontist will refer you to an oral surgeon if needed.
Insurance and Payment
This is also when you’ll figure out the financial side of treatment. The average cost of braces in the United States is around $6,000, but this varies based on your location and treatment needs.
Most orthodontic offices offer payment plans to spread the cost over your treatment time. Many also accept insurance, though coverage varies widely.
Step 4: Getting Your Braces Put On
The day you get your braces is exciting! This appointment typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on the type of braces you’re getting.
The Process Step by Step
Cleaning and drying – Your teeth get thoroughly cleaned and dried. Even a little saliva can prevent the brackets from sticking properly.
Conditioning – A special solution is painted on your teeth to help the brackets bond better. This might taste a little sour but doesn’t hurt.
Bracket placement – Each bracket is carefully glued to the center of each tooth. The orthodontist uses a special light to harden the glue quickly.
Wire insertion – Once all brackets are secure, the archwire is threaded through each bracket. This wire is what actually moves your teeth.
Final touches – Elastic bands (sometimes called ligatures) hold the wire in place. If you’re getting colored bands, this is when you choose your colors!
Different Types of Braces
Traditional metal braces are the most common and usually the least expensive option. They’re made of high-grade stainless steel and are much smaller than braces used to be.
Ceramic braces work the same way as metal braces but use tooth-colored brackets that blend in better. They cost a bit more but are less noticeable.
Clear aligners like Invisalign are removable trays that gradually move your teeth. They’re nearly invisible but require discipline to wear them 20-22 hours per day.
Lingual braces attach to the back of your teeth, making them completely invisible from the front. They’re the most expensive option and can be harder to clean.
What to Expect After Getting Braces
Your teeth and gums will likely be sore for a few days after getting braces. This is completely normal and means the braces are working! Your orthodontist might recommend:
- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers
- Eating soft foods like soup, pasta, and smoothies
- Using orthodontic wax on brackets that irritate your cheeks
- Avoiding hard, sticky, or crunchy foods
Step 5: Regular Adjustments and Monitoring
Once your braces are on, you’ll visit your orthodontist every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments. These appointments are much shorter than when you got your braces – usually 20 to 40 minutes.
What Happens at Adjustment Appointments
Progress check – The orthodontist examines how your teeth have moved since your last visit.
Wire changes – You’ll get a new wire that’s slightly stronger or shaped differently to continue moving your teeth in the right direction.
Elastic changes – If you’re using rubber bands between your upper and lower teeth, you’ll get fresh ones with specific instructions on how to wear them.
Problem solving – If a bracket has come loose or a wire is poking you, it gets fixed during this visit.
Staying on Track
The average amount of time for braces is between 1 and 3 years, but following your orthodontist’s instructions can help keep treatment on schedule.
Wear your elastics – If you’re supposed to wear rubber bands, do it! Not wearing them can add months to your treatment time.
Avoid forbidden foods – Hard candy, popcorn, and sticky foods can break brackets and slow down progress.
Keep good oral hygiene – Brush after every meal and floss daily. Poor hygiene can cause problems that delay treatment.
Don’t miss appointments – Regular adjustments are crucial for keeping your teeth moving in the right direction.
Managing Discomfort
Each adjustment might cause some soreness for a few days. This is normal and shows that your teeth are moving. The discomfort is usually less intense than when you first got your braces.
Step 6: Braces Removal and Retention
The day your braces come off is one to celebrate! After months or years of treatment, you finally get to see your new smile without any metal in the way.
The Removal Process
Bracket removal – Special pliers gently squeeze each bracket to release it from your tooth. This doesn’t hurt, though you might feel some pressure.
Adhesive cleanup – Any leftover glue is carefully polished off your teeth. This can take a while but leaves your teeth smooth and clean.
Final impressions – New impressions are taken to make your retainers.
Photos and celebration – Most orthodontists take “after” photos to show your amazing transformation!
Retainers Are Essential
Your journey isn’t quite over once the braces come off. It can take over a year for the bone to form properly around teeth and ensure they do not shift back into their original position, so retainers are crucial.
Removable retainers are the most common type. You’ll wear them full-time at first, then usually just at night for several years – possibly forever.
Fixed retainers are thin wires bonded to the back of your front teeth. They stay in place permanently and help ensure your teeth don’t move.
Maintaining Your Results
Your beautiful new smile will last a lifetime with proper care:
- Wear your retainer as directed
- Keep up with regular dental checkups
- Continue good oral hygiene habits
- Contact your orthodontist if you notice any changes
Costs and Insurance Coverage
The cost of braces varies widely depending on several factors. Understanding these can help you budget for treatment and find ways to make it more affordable.
Average Costs by Type
| Type of Braces | Average Cost Range |
| Traditional Metal | $3,000 – $7,000 |
| Ceramic | $4,000 – $8,000 |
| Clear Aligners | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Lingual | $5,000 – $13,000 |
According to the American Dental Association, the average price of comprehensive orthodontic treatment, which includes braces, is $5,000 to $6,000.
Factors That Affect Cost
Treatment complexity – Simple cases cost less than complex ones requiring longer treatment times.
Geographic location – Orthodontic care costs more in major cities and coastal areas.
Age of patient – Adults pay 5% more for braces compared to children or adolescents, working out to a difference of almost $300.
Length of treatment – Longer treatment times mean more appointments and higher costs.
Making Treatment Affordable
Dental insurance – Many plans cover 50% of orthodontic treatment up to a lifetime maximum, often around $1,500.
Payment plans – Most orthodontic offices offer interest-free payment plans spread over your treatment time.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) – You can use pre-tax dollars from your FSA to pay for orthodontic treatment.
Dental schools – Some dental schools with orthodontic programs offer treatment at reduced rates.
Timeline: How Long Does the Whole Process Take?
The complete braces process from consultation to removal typically takes 18 months to 3 years. Here’s a realistic timeline:
Pre-Treatment Phase (1-3 months)
- Initial consultation: 1 hour
- Insurance approval: 2-4 weeks
- Treatment planning: 1-2 weeks
- Pre-treatment work (if needed): varies
Active Treatment Phase (12-30 months)
- Braces placement: 1-2 hours
- Adjustment appointments: every 4-8 weeks
- Total treatment time varies by complexity
Post-Treatment Phase (ongoing)
- Braces removal: 1-2 hours
- Retainer fitting: same day
- Retainer wear: years to lifetime
Special Considerations for Adults vs. Children
While the basic process is the same for all ages, there are some differences between adult and child orthodontic treatment.
Children’s Treatment
Faster movement – Children’s teeth move more easily because their jaw bones are still growing.
Better compliance – Parents can help ensure kids follow instructions about food restrictions and oral hygiene.
Insurance coverage – Most insurance plans provide better coverage for children under 18.
Adult Treatment
Longer treatment times – Adult teeth are more firmly set in fully developed jaw bones, so movement takes longer.
More complex cases – Adults often have additional dental work like fillings or crowns that complicate treatment.
Aesthetic concerns – Many adults prefer less visible options like clear aligners or ceramic braces.
Higher costs – Adult treatment typically costs slightly more due to longer treatment times and additional complexity.
Taking Care of Your Teeth During Treatment
Good oral hygiene becomes even more important when you have braces. Brackets and wires create more places for food and bacteria to hide.
Daily Care Routine
Brush after every meal – Food particles can get trapped around brackets and lead to decay or staining.
Use fluoride toothpaste – This helps strengthen teeth and prevent cavities during treatment.
Floss daily – Special floss threaders or water flossers make this easier with braces.
Rinse with mouthwash – An antibacterial rinse can help keep your gums healthy.
Foods to Avoid
Hard foods like nuts, ice, and hard candy can break brackets. Sticky foods like caramel and gum can get caught in braces and be impossible to remove. Crunchy foods like popcorn can get stuck between teeth and be difficult to clean out.
Regular Dental Checkups
Keep seeing your family dentist every six months during orthodontic treatment. Professional cleanings are even more important when you have braces because it’s harder to clean your teeth thoroughly at home.
What Makes a Good Orthodontist?
Choosing the right orthodontist is crucial for getting the best results. Here’s what to look for:
Qualifications and Experience
Board certification – Look for an orthodontist who is certified by the American Board of Orthodontics.
Specialized training – Orthodontists complete 2-3 years of additional training beyond dental school.
Experience with your type of case – Some orthodontists specialize in adult treatment or complex cases.
Technology and Techniques
Modern orthodontic offices use digital imaging, 3D treatment planning, and the latest braces technology. These advances can make treatment faster and more comfortable.
Communication Style
Your orthodontist should:
- Explain your treatment plan clearly
- Answer all your questions patiently
- Be available for emergencies
- Make you feel comfortable and confident
At aligned. Orthodontics, Dr. Vanderstelt combines expertise with a warm, family-friendly approach that puts patients at ease throughout their treatment journey.
Common Concerns and Questions
“Will braces hurt?”
Getting braces put on doesn’t hurt, but your teeth will be sore for a few days afterward. This soreness happens again after each adjustment but usually gets less intense over time. Over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods help manage any discomfort.
“Can I still play sports?”
Yes! Just wear a mouthguard designed for braces. Your orthodontist can recommend the right type for your sport.
“What if a bracket comes off?”
Don’t panic! This happens sometimes and isn’t an emergency unless a wire is poking you. Call your orthodontist’s office – they’ll fit you in to reattach it.
“Can I still eat my favorite foods?”
You’ll need to avoid some foods during treatment, but most favorites can still be enjoyed with modifications. Pizza is fine, just cut it into smaller pieces. Ice cream is great – it even helps with soreness!
“Will people notice my braces?”
Traditional metal braces are visible, but they’re much smaller than they used to be. Many people choose colored bands to express their personality. If appearance is a major concern, ask about ceramic braces or clear aligners.
Making the Decision
Getting braces is a big decision that affects your time, budget, and daily routine for months or years. But the benefits – improved oral health, better function, and increased confidence – last a lifetime.
Is It Worth It?
In a 2013 study conducted for the AAO, respondents reported that orthodontic treatment contributed to improvements in their professional and personal lives. The investment in orthodontic treatment pays dividends in:
- Better oral health and easier teeth cleaning
- Improved chewing and digestion
- Reduced jaw pain and TMJ problems
- Increased self-confidence and social comfort
- Better professional appearance
When to Start
For children, the ideal time is usually between ages 9-14 when most permanent teeth are in but the jaw is still growing. For adults, there’s no wrong time to start – healthy teeth can be moved at any age.
Final Thoughts
The process of getting braces involves six clear steps: consultation, treatment planning, placement, adjustments, removal, and retention. While it requires time and commitment, modern orthodontic treatment is more comfortable and efficient than ever before.
Every smile is different, and your treatment will be customized to address your specific needs and goals. The key to success is choosing an experienced orthodontist, following instructions carefully, and maintaining excellent oral hygiene throughout treatment.
If you’re ready to start your journey to a straighter, healthier smile, schedule a consultation today. The aligned. Orthodontics team in Denver is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you get the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve.
Remember, orthodontic treatment is an investment in your oral health, confidence, and quality of life. With proper planning and the right orthodontic team, the process can be smooth, comfortable, and ultimately very rewarding.