Consider Invisalign, but aren’t certain about how long the treatment will take? You aren’t alone. Many individuals wonder how long it will actually take to straighten their smile with this breakthrough orthodontic treatment. While Invisalign aligners provide a discreet, comfortable way to straighten teeth, knowing how long treatment will take is important so that expectations can be realistic.
Continue reading to understand generally how long it will take to see results, what factors can affect treatment time, and how you can quicken the process with your Invisalign dentist.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a modern orthodontic solution that straightens teeth using clear, removable aligners. Unlike traditional metal braces, which are fixed and often noticeable, Invisalign aligners are custom-fit and virtually invisible.
Over time, they move your teeth into alignment. Being comfortable and discreet, Invisalign has become the choice for many adults and teens. With the advantage of removable aligners, patients can continue enjoying their favorite foods without restrictions, making Invisalign a convenient option for many.
Factors Affecting the Length of Time for Your Invisalign Treatment
Several factors influence how long your Invisalign treatment will take.
Severity of the misalignment: The more severe your misalignment, the longer the treatment. Cases that are quite complex may require more time to align the teeth completely.
Age and Growth: The rate of improvement is usually faster in teenagers due to active dentition and may take more time for adults.
Compliance: It means always wearing the aligners for 20-22 hours per day for optimal results; failing to do this will delay the treatment.
Dental Health: Any dental problems, such as gum disease or cavities, may cause delays. A healthy mouth before the start of your therapy will minimize the overall duration.
The General Invisalign Treatment Timeline
Initial Consultation: It begins with a consultation, whereby your Invisalign dentist in Edmonton will make detailed impressions of your teeth. A personalized treatment plan is thereafter developed that outlines the series of steps toward straightening your smile.
First Stage – Active Treatment: This usually takes about 1-2 years, whereby you will wear a series of aligners that will move your teeth into place. Each set of the aligners is usually worn for about two weeks before switching to the next one.
Midpoint – Progress Checkups: Following the custom-fit invisible aligners, your Invisalign dentist will review progress in routine follow-up appointments that will occur approximately every 6-8 weeks. These visits allow them to inspect that everything is going according to the plan.
Final Phase: Retainers (1-2 years after): Once your teeth are aligned, retainers will be fitted to maintain alignment and avoid relapse. You must wear them as instructed so that you can enjoy long-lasting results.
How to Speed Up the Invisalign Process
While Invisalign treatment is already faster compared with traditional braces, there are ways to speed it up further.
Follow Instructions: Make sure to wear your aligners as instructed: 20-22 hours a day. Not following this might prolong treatment.
Advanced Options: Some Invisalign patients prefer accelerated treatments, which use gentle vibrations to help move teeth faster.
Good oral hygiene will prevent dental issues such as caries or periodontal diseases, which might delay your treatment. A clean mouth will keep the aligners working at their best.
What to Expect During Your Invisalign Journey
Discomfort: Mild discomfort may be experienced when changing the aligners. This is normal and is an indication that the aligners are working properly.
Visible Results: Most patients start to notice that their smile has indeed changed within a few months. The changes are gradual, but often significant progress is seen early in the process.
Lifestyle Changes: Invisalign aligners are removable. Therefore, individuals using this appliance do not have to restrict themselves to certain foods. However, clean your teeth after meals before replacing the aligners to maintain hygiene.
Invisalign treatment typically takes anywhere from 1 to 2 years, depending on the needs of the individual. Some people experience faster results, and others, with the more complex cases, will take a little longer. Whichever the time, the results will be well worth the wait for a beautiful, straight smile.
If you’re wondering about your personalized treatment timeline, visit our dental clinic today.
