Molds (also known as "impressions") of your teeth will be created in the same way as they are at a dental clinic. A plaster model of your teeth will be created for the orthodontist to use in developing a treatment plan. In order to attain a straight grin, you should count on wearing braces for between 18 and 24 months. However, this time range can vary depending on how quickly your teeth move through their growth phase and how long it takes them to reach the end of their development cycle. The more teeth that are moved, the longer it will take to achieve a perfect smile. During your entire treatment period, you will need to wear a night guard to protect your newly aligned teeth while they're still fragile. It's important not to put any undue pressure on your jaws or experience any pain while wearing braces. If you do notice anything unusual, like if your teeth start to feel tight or sore, see your dentist right away so any injury can be diagnosed and treated early on. Most patients require from one to four appointments per week for each stage of their treatment. You will first meet with an orthodontist to discuss options and choose a treatment plan. Next, you will be referred to an oral surgeon for impressions. Once these have been taken, you will need to visit the orthodontist again for adjustments to your bite. These visits are essential for ensuring that your new smile is staying strong and healthy during its transformation.