How Long Does Invisalign® Treatment Take?
When considering Invisalign clear aligners, two of the most common questions patients ask are: Is it effective? How long does it take?
Modern orthodontics has evolved, in many cases, eliminating the need for metal brackets, wires, and years of wearing traditional braces.
Invisalign is a well-known brand of clear aligners used to straighten teeth more conveniently that works well in about 90% of orthodontic situations, including:
- Crooked teeth
- Overcrowding
- Gaps in teeth
- Crossbite, overbite and underbite
But you may be wondering:
“How long does Invisalign take to straighten teeth?”
We’ll be answering that question, and more so, keep reading to find your top answers about Invisalign treatment.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
Invisalign treatment varies from patient to patient.
On average, Invisalign takes anywhere between 12 to 18 months from start to finish.
It’s usually faster than traditional metal braces!
There are a few factors that determine the length of your treatment, including:
- Case complexity: The position of your teeth beforehand, including crowding or gaps, may add to treatment time.
- Compliance: Wearing your aligners for the recommended 22 hours daily helps move your teeth into place faster.
- Patient age: Adults and teenagers alike will benefit from clear aligners. And because teens are still growing, their teeth tend to move more quickly than adults.
Keep in mind:
You can’t control your case complexity or age, but compliance is one of the most critical factors in how fast your teeth will shift into optimal position.
What is Invisalign treatment like?
Invisalign is made to fit your busy schedule and be as stress-free as possible.
Consultation & treatment plan
During your initial consultation, your orthodontist will examine your medical history and oral health to determine whether you’re an Invisalign candidate.
Then, an intraoral camera is used to take pictures of your teeth.
A 3D computer imaging system will help map out your treatment timeline and show a preview of your new smile.
Wear aligners
The imaging of your teeth is sent to create custom-made Invisalign trays… This text opens a new tab to the Invisalign website….
You’ll start treatment as soon as your clear aligners come in.
Aligners are worn for 22+ hours every day, and you’ll meet with your orthodontist for follow-up visits every 6-8 weeks to ensure your treatment is going as planned.
In some cases, additional aligners or refinements may be required to achieve the desired results. This can add extra time to your Invisalign treatment.
Finish treatment: the retainer
Once your teeth are straightened, you’re done with Invisalign!
The next step is to create your retainer to keep your teeth from shifting.
Your orthodontist will let you know how often you must wear your retainers. Compliance is equally important here.
Wear your retainers for the recommended amount of time!
When will I start seeing results?
The timeline to straighter teeth starts the moment you receive your clear aligners.
You can start seeing visible results in as little as two weeks!
In addition to a straighter smile, your oral health will also improve.
Straighter teeth are easier to clean, which helps prevent future dental problems and saves money in the long run!
Does Invisalign hurt?
Most patients report that Invisalign doesn’t hurt!
Invisalign treatment typically involves minimal discomfort rather than pain because it uses the latest technology to create custom clear aligners for a snug, comfortable fit.
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are smooth and don’t have sharp brackets or wires that can irritate your mouth.
Any discomfort experienced is usually associated with the gradual movement of teeth and may be described as a mild, temporary pressure or soreness.
This discomfort is a sign that the aligners are working to shift your teeth into their desired positions.
Overall, Invisalign offers most patients a more comfortable and less painful orthodontic experience.
To recap
The duration of Invisalign treatment can vary from person to person and depends on the complexity of your orthodontic issues.
On average, Invisalign typically takes anywhere from 6-18 months.
The following impact the length of treatment for every Invisalign patient, so keep these in mind in your Invisalign journey.
- Severity of misalignment
- Compliance
- Treatment plan
- Follow-up visits
- Refinements
- Retainers
Where can I get Invisalign in Boca Raton, FL?
Big Boca Smiles is the clear choice for your Invisalign treatment.
You’ll experience first-class orthodontic care with our very own Dr. Arthur Kapit. He’s a board-certified orthodontist and a certified Invisalign provider.
He will assess your needs and provide a personalized treatment plan, giving you a clearer idea of the expected duration to achieve your desired smile.
Enjoy a healthy and beautiful smile for years to come.
Or:
- Call us at: 561-482-8000
- Email us at: info@bigbocasmiles.com
- Schedule a virtual smile consultation
Our office is located in Boca Raton, FL… This text opens a new tab to the Google Maps website…. We happily welcome patients from the neighboring communities, including Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Pompano Beach, Coral Springs, and Boynton Beach, FL.
