Braces (metal or ceramic)
A typical case, in 6 steps over 4 visits. Typically 12 to 24 months in braces; soft foods for the first few days. Every step names its source.
Not yet reviewed by a licensed clinician. Every step names its source.
Braces (metal or ceramic) · Visit 1
Planning visits
In the first 1 or 2 visits, the orthodontist takes measurements and records to plan the treatment and how long it will take.
Source: aaoinfo.org
Steps in a typical case
Planning visits
In the first 1 or 2 visits, the orthodontist takes measurements and records to plan the treatment and how long it will take.
Visit 1 · Source 1
Bonding the brackets
A bracket is bonded (glued) to each tooth.
Visit 2 · Source 2
Placing the wire
A thin, flexible archwire is placed over the brackets and held in place by tiny elastic bands or built-in clips. This is typically the longest visit.
Visit 2 · Source 2
Adjustments
Every 4 to 12 weeks, the braces are adjusted so they keep moving the teeth gradually into place.
Visit 3 · Source 1
Taking the braces off
When the teeth are in their new positions, the brackets and wires are removed.
Visit 4 · Source 1
Retainer
A retainer is worn afterward to keep the teeth from shifting back.
Visit 4 · Source 2
Typical trade-offs
| Visits | Typically 1 or 2 planning visits, a fitting visit, then adjustment visits every 4 to 12 weeks. Source 1 |
|---|---|
| Time to final result | Typically 12 to 24 months in braces; soft foods for the first few days. Source 1 |
| How long it lasts | Typically the result holds when the retainer is worn after the braces come off. Source 2 |
| Upkeep | Typical upkeep: brushing at least twice a day with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste, flossing around the braces daily and avoiding hard or sticky foods. Source 2 |
Figures for a typical case from the sources below. A dentist can say how a given case differs.
Questions to ask your dentist
- The typical case takes 4 visits. How many would I need, and what happens at each one?
- What are my other options, including waiting, and what happens if I wait?
- How long does it usually last in a case like mine, and what upkeep will it need?
- Will it hurt, and what can I eat or do while it heals?
- What will it cost me, and will my insurance cover it? Ask which billing codes apply (the typical case uses D8080, D8090, D8670, D8680).
- How many of these have you done, and who would do mine?
Sources
- Braces. American Association of Orthodontists. aaoinfo.org/treatments/braces. Accessed November 14, 2026.
- Teeth braces. Cleveland Clinic. my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24601-teeth-braces. Accessed November 14, 2026.
Osler Press procedure library, version 2026.11.0. Billing codes for the typical case: D8080, D8090, D8670, D8680.