Varies by case. Anywhere from no braces to years. I'd say 6mo before is typical for minor cases. Facebook group would be better to ask about insurance. You won't be eating normally for 3-4mo afterwards but you can do work 2-3 weeks afterwards. I don't know that Dr Taylor has much of a publication record but he sure does a lot of surgeries in Houston. I don't live there but my orthodontist has done a few cases with him and seems to like him.