If you’re seeking a more comfortable and discreet way to straighten your smile than traditional braces, you could potentially benefit from Invisalign. This clear alternative to standard orthodontics continues to gain popularity because the transparent plastic trays are removable, so they don’t impact your habits and routines as completely. Plus, they allow your natural smile to shine through to boost your confidence.
But before committing to this treatment, it’s important to understand what a typical treatment timeline looks like. Continue reading to learn more about how long it usually takes to complete Invisalign!
How Does Invisalign Work?
Although braces are the tried-and-true solution for shifting teeth, they’re also notorious for causing certain challenges. For example, the sharp corners of the metallic brackets can cut the tender tissues inside your mouth. Plus, they interfere with your ability to eat hard, sticky, or sugary foods. At the same time, they can be difficult to clean, increasing the likelihood of developing cavities or gum disease.
Meanwhile, Invisalign relies on transparent trays that are customized to fit snugly over your arches to exert enough gentle (but consistent) pressure to shift your teeth. These don’t require dietary restrictions and are easier to clean because they’re completely removable. But you must wear them for 20 to 22 hours daily to prevent your pearly whites from shifting back to their starting positions. Then, after a week or two, you’ll be given the next set in your series to account for the ongoing movement of your smile.
How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?
It’s only natural to have questions about what life looks like with Invisalign, like how long it takes to complete it. If you’re worried you’ll have to wear the clear trays for several years, like patients with braces often do, you can thankfully set your concerns aside.
Typically, it takes about 12 to finish treatment with these aligners, but it can vary depending on your unique circumstances. For instance, if you have a single minor gap in your teeth you’re hoping to close, you might only be required to wear the trays for about 6 months. But if you fail to keep them inserted for the recommended time each day,\ or have unexpectedly stubborn teeth that don’t shift at the anticipated rate, it could take up to 18+ months.
Am I A Good Candidate for Invisalign?
Invisalign can often be used to address mild to moderate gaps, overcrowding, and bite misalignments (malocclusions), but that doesn’t mean it’s the best option to meet everyone’s unique needs. Before proceeding, you must consult your dentist to ensure you’re a good candidate.
Your provider can examine your mouth, take X-rays or other images, and discuss your smile goals to help decide if this alternative orthodontic service is right for you!
Meet the Author
Dr. Cesar Rodriguez is passionate about helping enhance his patients’ daily lives by improving their dental condition. He earned a Doctorate in Stomatology (study and treatment of the mouth) from Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra in the Dominican Republic, then achieved a Master’s in Prosthodontics and Oral Implantology. Today, he proudly provides a comprehensive menu of services to meet all your needs under one roof, including Invisalign. His compassionate nature is paired with state-of-the-art equipment to deliver comfortable, accurate results intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or call (407) 894-4921.