Posted on May 27, 2025
Are you wondering, “How long do braces take in Fort Myers and Cape Coral, FL?” On average, braces take 1.5 to 3 years to straighten your teeth. The exact time depends on factors like your age, needs, and the type of braces you choose. At Levine Orthodontics, we’re here to create healthy, beautiful smiles with clear plans for every patient. In this article, we’ll cover how long braces take, what can impact the timeline, and what to expect during treatment.
Most patients wear braces for 18–24 months. Mild cases can be completed in 12 months, while severe conditions may take up to 36 months or longer. Levine Orthodontics provides personalized treatment estimates during your first visit so you’ll know what to expect.
Some specific issues have their own timelines:
Metal braces remain one of the most popular options. They are reliable for treating both simple and complex issues. Treatment time is usually around 18–24 months for most patients.
Ceramic braces are less noticeable but work similarly to metal braces. The treatment time is also about 18–24 months.
Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners. It’s a favorite for adults and professionals in Fort Myers and Cape Coral. Most cases are completed in 12–18 months, though complex problems may need more time.
Your braces journey starts with a visit to Levine Orthodontics. During this appointment, we will:
You’ll visit the office every 4–8 weeks for adjustments. These appointments are essential to ensure steady progress. Missing adjustments can delay your treatment by several weeks or months.
The orthodontist tracks how your teeth are moving during treatment. They may adjust your plan to ensure the best results in the shortest possible time.
According to Dr. Sam Titus, a trusted orthodontist in Westfield, IN, consistent oral hygiene and following orthodontic care instructions are critical for timely results. Poor oral habits or skipped appointments, as he warns, can unnecessarily add 3–6 months to your braces timeline.
Good oral hygiene is critical with braces. Proper brushing and flossing help prevent cavities, gum problems, or delays. Bad oral care could add 3–6 months to your timeline.
Certain foods can damage your brackets or wires. Orthodontists recommend avoiding:
Broken brackets or wires could delay treatment by another 1–3 months.
Compliance is key to keeping on track. Wear elastics or rubber bands as recommended. If prescribed, use headgear or other appliances consistently. Skipping these instructions could extend your treatment time by 3–6 months or more.
Once your braces come off, a retainer is essential to keep your teeth in place.
Post-treatment visits occur at 3, 6, and 12 months after braces are removed. These check-ins ensure everything is staying aligned and address any concerns.
At Levine Orthodontics, we take pride in giving our patients healthy smiles. Families in Fort Myers and Cape Coral trust us because of our:
Braces typically cost between $3,000 and $7,000 based on several factors:
Ready to start your journey to a perfect smile? Schedule a consultation at Levine Orthodontics in Fort Myers or Cape Coral, FL, today!
During your consultation, we will assess your smile, build a custom plan, and provide an estimated treatment length. You’re one step away from achieving a healthy, beautiful smile. Call us or book online to get started.
Dr. Alex Levine – Orthodontist in Fort Myers and Cape Coral, FL
Dr. Sam Titus – Orthodontist in Westfield, IN
Most people wear braces for about 18 to 24 months. Your orthodontist will tailor the treatment to your specific needs. Some might only need them for a year, while others might have them on for up to three years. It really depends on how much work your teeth need.
You might feel a little pressure and slight discomfort during the process, but it’s not typically painful. After they’re on, your teeth might feel a bit tender for a few days as they start to adjust. But no worries – a little over-the-counter pain reliever can easily take care of that! That initial discomfort fades pretty quickly as you get used to your new smile-in-the-making.
Chewy candies like caramel and taffy are off the menu for now. Same goes for hard candies, nuts, and popcorn – they’re not exactly brace-friendly. And you might want to press pause on the gum-chewing for a bit. There’s still a world of yummy food out there for you. Just remember to cut those crunchy fruits and veggies into bite-sized pieces, and you’ll be all set.
Many orthodontists recommend starting treatment between 10 and 14 years old. At this age, kids have most of their permanent teeth, but their jaws are still growing, making it easier to correct alignment issues. That said, it’s never too late to improve your smile! More and more adults are getting braces these days, proving that a great grin is achievable at any age.
