Deciding to straighten your teeth is a significant step toward improving your smile and boosting your confidence. For many, Invisalign is a popular choice due to its discrete and effective outcomes. But one of the most common questions people have when considering Invisalign is, “How long does it take?”
The answer to this depends on several factors, ranging from the complexity of your dental alignment issues to your commitment to wearing the aligners as recommended. Most Invisalign treatments will take 12-18 months, but they can be as quick as six months or take more than two years, depending on the severity of the dental issues involved.
What Is Invisalign?
So what makes Invisalign unique? Invisalign uses a series of clear, custom-made plastic aligners to gradually shift your teeth into the correct position.
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible and can be removed when eating, brushing, or flossing. Since Invisalign offers both cosmetic appeal and convenience, it’s an excellent option for people seeking an alternative to metal braces.
How Long Does Invisalign Take?
While every patient’s case is unique, the average length of treatment depends on the severity of the dental problem being addressed.
Mild Cases
In mild cases, such as minor spacing or slight crowding, Invisalign treatments can take 6–8 months. Individuals with straightforward alignment issues can often see results in as little as six months.
Moderate Cases
In moderate cases, such as moderate tooth gaps and noticeable crowding, Invisalign treatments can take 12–18 months. Most Invisalign patients fall into this category. The length of treatments depends on the complexity of adjustments needed, so it’s important to be patient.
Complex Cases
In complex or severe cases, like severe misalignment, overbites, and underbites, it may take 18–24 months, or more, to finish treatment. Invisalign can still be an effective solution for these cases, but patience and following the treatment plan are essential.
Keep in mind that these timelines are averages. Your dentist or orthodontist will provide a personalized estimate during your initial Invisalign consultation.
Factors That Can Impact Treatment Lengths
Several factors influence how long your Invisalign treatment will take:
1. Severity of Misalignment
The more significant the adjustments needed, the longer your treatment will take. For instance, correcting minor gaps between teeth will typically take less time than realigning severely crooked teeth.
2. Age
Adults and teens both benefit from Invisalign, but age can play a small role in treatment duration. Younger patients may experience slightly faster progress since their teeth and jawbones are still developing, making them more responsive to aligner adjustments.
3. Wear Time
The effectiveness of Invisalign hinges on your commitment to wearing your aligners as advised. Typically, dentists recommend wearing the aligners for 20–22 hours a day. Failure to consistently wear your aligners can prolong the length of your treatment.
4. Compliance With Changing Aligners
For Invisalign to work effectively, you’ll need to switch to a new set of aligners approximately every 1–2 weeks (depending on your treatment plan). Delaying these transitions could extend your overall treatment length.
5. Additional Attachments or Refinements
Sometimes, small tooth-coloured attachments are placed on your teeth to assist with more precise movements. Refinements or additional aligners may also be required toward the end of your initial treatment to fine-tune your results.
Tips for Staying on Track with Invisalign Treatments
To ensure your Invisalign treatment stays on schedule, consider the following tips:
- Wear your aligners consistently
- Follow your dentist’s instructions
- Practice good oral hygiene
- Use an aligner case to avoid damaging aligners.
- Stay consistent with dental appointments.
Comparing Invisalign & Traditional Braces
If you’re comparing Invisalign to traditional braces, you might wonder how their timelines stack up. While traditional braces can often correct severe alignment issues, they typically require 18–36 months of treatment. For many patients, Invisalign offers a shorter timeline with the added benefit of convenience and aesthetics.
However, the right treatment option for you will depend on your unique dental needs. A consultation with your orthodontist is the best way to explore what will work best for your smile.
Some other differences between Invisalign and traditional braces include:
- Invisalign is made of clear plastic and is less visible than traditional braces.
- Invisalign may be less irritating to the gums and mouth, making them more comfortable.
- Invisalign can be slightly more expensive than traditional braces.
- Traditional braces may be more effective at treating complex misalignments than Invisalign.
Is Invisalign Right for Me?
If you’re considering Invisalign, the first step is to schedule a consultation with an experienced dentist or orthodontist. At your appointment, your provider will assess your dental needs, take detailed 3D scans or impressions of your teeth, and create a customized treatment plan tailored to your smile goals.
At Grand West Dental, we can help you take steps towards your best smile with our Invisalign services. Book a consultation today to get personalized dental health care.
