I got my braces by the end of August last year. My orthodontist said it'll take about a year so I was expecting for them to be off in August of this year. My next appointment is August 3rd and I usually go every month. I have clear on the top and the regular ones on the bottom. He is trying to close the gaps now. How much longer do you think it's going to take until I get them off? I hope they're off before school starts.

It's hard to tell. Teeth move at different rates, so what happened for one person won't necessarily happen for another. If you still have gaps, you are probably looking at a few more months at least. The only person who can give you an accurate estimate is your orthodontist, so ask him next time you go in.

Remember that braces aren't just about alignment, but also your jaw and bite. You want to have a good, sturdy bite before the braces come off, otherwise you are at an increased risk of relapse or more problems down the road. Hang in there, they'll be off before you know it.