How braces move your teeth – and why it takes time

When you start orthodontic treatment – whether it’s with fixed braces or clear aligners like Invisalign or Angel Aligners – you might assume your teeth are simply being “pulled” into place. In reality, there’s a much more fascinating process going on behind your smile.

Braces and aligners don’t just move your teeth – they gently guide them through the bone that supports them. And because the process is as much about biology as it is about mechanics, it takes time to do it right.

What’s really going on beneath the surface

Braces and aligners move your teeth through a natural biological process called bone remodelling. As pressure is applied, the bone surrounding each tooth gradually breaks down on one side and rebuilds on the other. This allows the tooth to move safely through the jaw – creating space, correcting alignment and improving your bite.

Here’s how each option works:

• Braces use small brackets and wires to apply continuous, controlled pressure to each tooth, gradually guiding them into better alignment.
• Clear aligners, like Invisalign and Angel Aligners, are custom-made to fit just slightly off your current tooth position. This subtle difference creates gentle pressure in specific areas, moving your teeth step by step as you switch to each new set of trays.

They may look very different, but braces and aligners work in much the same way – gently guiding your teeth into a straighter, healthier position over time.

Why it takes time – and why that’s a good thing

You might see small changes within the first few months, but most orthodontic cases take 6 to 24 months, depending on your bite, alignment and goals.

Here’s why that time matters:

• Bone needs time to adapt – rushing tooth movement can cause long-term issues
• It’s not just about looks – proper bite alignment is key for long-term oral health
• We want results that last – slow, steady movement helps prevent relapse
• Everyone’s smile is different – treatment is tailored to your needs, not rushed

At Ewell Orthodontics, we carefully time your in-practice visits so that your treatment stays efficient and perfectly paced – for the best possible outcome in the shortest safe timeframe.

Don’t forget your retainers

Once your teeth have moved into their new position, wearing retainers is essential to keep them there. While the bone gradually settles and strengthens, the elastic ligaments around your teeth can slowly start to pull them back.

That’s why retainers need to be worn indefinitely. We provide both fixed and removable retainers and aftercare for every patient, along with clear guidance to help you protect your smile long term. You can even join our Retainer Club for ongoing support and maintenance.

What about quicker fixes?

For some patients, there are faster cosmetic alternatives to braces, including:

• Veneers – thin porcelain shells placed over the front of the teeth to improve their appearance
• Composite bonding – tooth-coloured resin sculpted onto teeth to fix chips, gaps or mild crowding

While these treatments can give the appearance of a straighter smile, they don’t actually move your teeth or correct your bite.

Composite bonding is minimally invasive and often completed in a single visit. It’s a great option for subtle reshaping or evening out edges, but the resin can chip or stain over time and may need refreshing every few years.

Veneers offer a more durable, stain-resistant result, but usually require a thin layer of enamel to be removed, making the treatment irreversible. Although they can last 10–15 years, they will eventually need replacing – which can make them a more costly long-term option.

For natural, lifelong results, braces and aligners remain the gold standard. They work with your own teeth, preserve your enamel and support long-term oral health.

Get the right advice for your smile

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to straightening your teeth – and that’s exactly why we offer free consultations with our specialist orthodontists. You’ll have the chance to explore every option with honest, expert advice tailored to you.

We’ll assess your bite, understand your goals and recommend the treatment that suits your lifestyle – all with long-term health and confidence in mind.

Braces and aligners take time – but with a personalised plan and expert support, that time is an investment in a healthier, straighter smile. Whether you’re after subtle changes or a full transformation, our caring team are here to help.

Book your no-obligation consultation online or call us on 020 8394 2324.