May 22, 2025
Blog Article - How long does adult orthodontic treatment take?
How long does adult orthodontic treatment take?
Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for teenagers. More adults than ever are choosing to straighten their teeth, improve their bite, and boost their confidence later in life. One of the first questions we’re asked is: “How long will it take?”
At Specialist Orthodontic Practice (SOP), we offer bespoke orthodontic solutions for adults - ranging from clear aligners and Invisalign® to clear ceramic braces and fixed metal braces. The length of treatment varies depending on a few key factors, which we’ll explore below.
What affects how long adult treatment takes?
Every smile is different, and your treatment time will depend on:
The complexity of your case: Mild crowding or spacing can sometimes be corrected in as little as 6 months. More complex issues - such as bite misalignment or significant crowding - may require 12 to 24 months or longer.- Type of treatment you choose: At SOP, we offer a range of options, including:
- Custom-made clear aligners crafted in our Dublin laboratory
- Invisalign® clear aligners
- Clear ceramic braces
- Traditional metal braces Each has different advantages in terms of control, comfort, and visibility. Braces may offer slightly faster or more predictable results in some complex cases.
- Patient compliance: If you're wearing aligners, success relies on wearing them 20–22 hours per day and switching trays as advised. Braces are fixed in place, but attending regular appointments and following care advice is just as important.
- Age and biological response: While adults can absolutely achieve excellent results, teeth often move slightly more slowly than they do in teenagers. That said, advances in technology - like 3D-printed aligners and remote monitoring - mean adult treatment is more efficient than ever.
Typical treatment timelines
To give you a general guide, here’s how long adult orthodontic treatment usually takes at SOP:
Treatment Type |
Typical Duration |
|---|---|
| Mild to moderate aligner cases | 6–12 months |
| Moderate Invisalign® cases | 12–18 months |
| Fixed braces (clear or metal) | 12–24 months |
| Complex bite correction | 18–30 months |
These are general estimates - your treatment plan is always tailored to your needs following a detailed clinical assessment with Dr Geoghegan.
Why choose SOP for adult orthodontics?
At SOP, you’ll benefit from:
- Bespoke aligners made in-house using advanced 3D printing for precision and efficiency
- Invisalign® treatment available for those who prefer a globally recognised brand
- Discreet braces designed with aesthetics and comfort in mind
- Remote monitoring via Dental Monitoring, so we can track progress with fewer in-person visits
- Specialist-led care with decades of experience treating adult patients with complex needs
We understand that your time is valuable. That’s why we offer flexible appointment scheduling, convenient locations in Dublin and Glenageary, and custom solutions that work around your lifestyle.
Start your smile journey today
If you’ve been wondering how long adult orthodontic treatment takes, the best next step is a personalised consultation. We’ll assess your smile, talk through your goals, and explain what treatment would look like for you - including how long it’s likely to take.
Whether you’re preparing for a big event, improving your dental health, or simply ready to invest in your confidence, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Book your consultation with SOP today - and take the first step towards the smile you’ve always wanted.
