How Often Do You Need to Visit the Orthodontist?
How often are orthodontist appointments during active treatment?
Most patients come in every 6–10 weeks for adjustments, progress checks, and new aligners or wire changes. Your orthodontist may shorten or extend that window based on how your teeth are moving.
What happens at braces checkups?
We check tooth movement, tighten or change wires, replace worn elastics, and fix any loose brackets. You’ll also get tips to keep your braces clean and comfortable.
What is a typical treatment schedule from start to finish?
Your treatment generally moves through four phases: records & planning, active tooth movement, finishing, and retainers. See the quick table below.
Treatment Schedule at a Glance (Typical Ranges)
Phase | What It Includes | How Often You Visit |
Records & Planning | Photos, scan/X-rays, custom plan | 1–2 visits at the start |
Active Movement | Braces wire changes or new aligners | Every 6–10 weeks |
Finishing | Fine-tuning bite & smile | Every 6–8 weeks |
Retainers | Fit, checks, long-term monitoring | 1–2 visits, then yearly or as advised |
Do clear aligners change how often I come in?
Often yes, aligner patients may visit every 8–12 weeks, especially if they’re tracking well and wearing trays as directed. Some check-ins can be virtual, but you’ll still need in-person visits to verify fit and tooth movement.
Will I need emergency appointments?
Occasionally. Call us if you have a poking wire, broken bracket, or lost aligner. We’ll guide you on a quick fix and schedule a visit if needed.
How long is each visit?
Most braces and aligner checks take 20–30 minutes. Longer visits, like placing braces, fitting appliances, or delivering retainers can take 45–90 minutes.
What if I miss an appointment?
Reschedule soon. Skipping visits can slow progress and sometimes extend treatment time. It may also let small issues like a loose bracket turn into bigger delays.
Can I reduce the number of visits?
Yes, by following your plan. Wear aligners 20–22 hours/day, use elastics as prescribed, keep great oral hygiene, and protect appliances during sports and meals. Good habits = fewer unplanned visits.
How often should I see my dentist during orthodontic care?
Keep your regular dental cleanings every 6 months (or more often if recommended). Orthodontic visits don’t replace dental checkups.
Braces Checkups: What to Expect (Fast List)
- Progress photo/scan or look-over
- Wire change or elastic replacement (braces)
- Tray fit and next-step review (aligners)
- Comfort fixes (clip wire ends, rebond bracket)
- Home-care tips for brushing, flossing, and elastics
Does the treatment schedule differ for kids vs. adults?
The visit rhythm is similar, but early/pre-teen patients sometimes have expansion or habit appliances that may require more frequent short visits. Adult plans can include restorative or periodontal coordination, which we’ll align with your checkups.
What about retainers – how often do I come back?
You’ll get your retainers at the end of treatment, return for a fit check in 6–12 weeks, then usually yearly to confirm stability. Wearing retainers as directed protects your smile—and your investment.
Quick Answers
- Active braces: visit about every 6–10 weeks
- Aligners: visit about every 8–12 weeks (some virtual)
- Emergencies: call for broken/lost parts; we’ll advise and schedule
- Missed visits: reschedule quickly to avoid delays
- Dentist cleanings: still every 6 months
- Retainers: 1–2 early checks, then annual monitoring
How do I schedule or adjust my visits?
Easy, use the contact options on our website or call the office nearest you. We’ll help you find a time that keeps your progress on track and works with your school, work, or activity calendar.
Ready to stay on schedule?
Consistent orthodontist appointments, on-time braces checkups, and a personalized treatment schedule are the key to finishing on time with a smile you love.
David Ross Orthodontics serving Hanover, PA, Lutherville-Timonium, and Westminster, MD offers convenient hours and clear guidance at every step.