Do metal braces work faster than Invisalign?

It depends on the complexity of your bite. For closing large gaps or pulling teeth after extractions, metal braces are mechanically faster. However, for mild crowding or spacing, Invisalign can be 4-6 months faster because movements are digitally pre-planned.

What is the biological speed limit for braces?

Teeth can only move as fast as your bone remodels. If too much force is applied too quickly, the body attacks the tooth root, causing Root Resorption (shortening of the root). Fast isn't always good; safe and continuous pressure is best.

What is the #1 reason orthodontic treatment is delayed?

Broken brackets. Every time you break a bracket (by eating forbidden foods like hard candy or popcorn), your treatment stops and the tooth slides back. One broken bracket typically adds 3-4 weeks to your total treatment time.

Do vibration devices speed up braces?

Recent studies in 2026 show mixed to low results for vibration devices (like AcceleDent). They may help slightly with discomfort, but they show minimal real-world time savings for bone remodeling.

Do Metal Braces Work Faster? Speed Myths Debunked

By Senior Orthodontic Consultant

Updated: Jan 2026

Speed Analysis

Still deciding on the type?

Speed is just one factor. Compare Cost, Pain, and Aesthetics in our master guide.

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In my 15 years of practice, the second most common question I get (after “How much does it cost?”) is: “When do I get them off?”

There is a persistent myth in orthodontics that traditional metal braces are the “turbo” option, while clear aligners (like Invisalign) are the “scenic route.” The truth in 2026 is much more nuanced. Metal braces are not always faster; in fact, for some patients, they might actually be slower.

The Biological Speed Limit

Before we compare appliances, you must understand one rule: You cannot cheat biology.

Danger: Root Resorption

Moving teeth isn’t just dragging them through gums; it involves dissolving bone on one side and rebuilding it on the other. If you apply too much force too quickly, the body attacks the tooth root, causing it to shorten (Root Resorption). This can lead to tooth loss. Fast isn’t always good; safe is good.

Scenario Breakdown: Which is Faster?

The winner depends entirely on what needs fixing.

Scenario A: Complex Gaps & Extractions

Hard

You need to close large spaces after pulling teeth.

Winner: Metal Braces

Fixed wires are mechanically superior at pulling teeth bodily without tipping them.

Scenario B: Mild Crowding

Easy

Front teeth are slightly crooked or rotated.

Winner: Invisalign

Aligners move all teeth simultaneously. Metal braces often move them in stages. Aligners can be 4-6 months faster here.

Want a deeper dive into the differences? We compare pain and cost in our Invisalign vs. Metal Showdown.

The #1 Reason Treatment Takes Longer

It’s not the appliance. It’s The Broken Bracket.

The Reality: Every time you break a bracket (by eating popcorn or hard candy), your treatment stops. The tooth slides back.
The Math: One broken bracket typically adds 3-4 weeks to your total treatment time. Break 5 brackets? That’s 5 extra months.
The Fix: Avoid forbidden foods. See our “Can I Eat This?” List to save your timeline.

Do “Speed Up” Devices Work?

You may have seen ads for vibrating devices (like AcceleDent) or micro-perforation procedures (Propel).

Method	Claim	Verdict (2026)
Vibration Devices	Speeds up bone remodeling via pulses.	Mixed/Low. Studies show minimal real-world time savings.
Propel (MOPs)	Small dimples in gum to stimulate healing.	Effective.
Self-Ligating Braces	“Damon” braces move teeth faster.	Myth.

Note: Self-ligating braces (like Damon) are faster for the *doctor* to adjust, but they don’t necessarily move teeth faster biologically.

The Verdict on Speed

Metal braces are reliable, but not magically faster. The fastest treatment is one where you follow instructions, keep your appointments, and don’t break your hardware.

Check Costs & Payment Plans

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Treatment times vary significantly by individual biology and compliance. Always consult a board-certified orthodontist for accurate time estimates.

Want to finish faster?

Wear your rubber bands exactly as instructed. It can shave months off your time.