Most orthodontists will highly discourage pausing or discontinuing orthodontic treatment that is already in progress. Orthodontic treatment plans take time and gradual pressure to meet your unique needs safely and effectively, and stopping your individual plan early can cause your teeth to shift back to their original position. It may also result in permanent damage to your teeth, gums, or bone because new bone tissue has not yet formed to support the recently-shifted teeth, nor has your bone structure had the time to reshape. However, an orthodontist may decide to end your treatment due to extenuating circumstances, such as poor dental hygiene during the treatment—which can compromise the strength and integrity of your teeth—or an inability to continue paying for treatment. Regardless of the reason, prematurely discontinuing your treatment will most likely incur an early termination fee from the orthodontist. Orthodontic treatment can seem to take forever, but ending it early is never recommended. However, but there are good habits you can practice to help make sure your treatment doesn’t take longer than it should, such as: Following your orthodontist’s instructions and keeping all scheduled cleaning and adjustment appointments Avoiding foods that can break or damage your appliance Maintaining good oral health