Invisalign® is a popular and effective way to straighten your teeth comfortably and discreetly. Many people choose Invisalign® because of its flexibility, appearance, and the freedom to eat and drink without the restrictions of traditional braces. But how long does Invisalign® treatment take? The answer depends on several factors, including the complexity of your case, compliance with instructions, and individual factors related to your dental structure and oral health. In this blog, we’ll explain what to expect at each stage and how you can make the most of your Invisalign® treatment.
How Does Invisalign® Work?
Invisalign® treatment involves wearing a series of custom-made aligner trays that gradually move teeth into their proper positions. The aligners correspond to each stage of the alignment process and are worn for one to two weeks, moving teeth in small increments before switching to the next set.
Invisalign® aligners are made using advanced 3D imaging technology to create precise, predictive molds of your teeth and treat a wide range of orthodontic issues. These range from mild gaps and crowding to twisted teeth and complex bite misalignments. You may also require attachments (small tooth-colored bumps) to help the aligners grip your teeth better and get the desired movement.
Average Treatment Time for Invisalign®
Treatment can take anywhere from 6 to 24 months, depending on the following:
Severity of Misalignment
Minor crowding issues or gaps can take as little as six months, while more significant issues, like overbites, underbites, or severe crowding, can take 18 to 24 months.
Compliance and Consistency
Invisalign® aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours every day. Not wearing them as directed can delay the process and affect the final results.
Patient Age
Teenagers get faster results because of the flexibility of their jawbone. Older patients typically experience longer treatment times. Invisalign® is not usually recommended for young children, who often struggle to wear the aligners for such an extended amount of time.
What Are the 5 Treatment Stages of Invisalign®?
There are five main stages of Invisalign® treatment, with each being a vital part of your smile transformation:
- Consultation and Treatment Planning: Before treatment, you’ll consult with an orthodontist or Invisalign® trained dentist. During this visit, photos, x-rays, and a digital impression of your teeth are obtained to create a custom treatment plan. It usually takes a couple of weeks for your custom aligners to be manufactured and received by the dental office.
- Aligners and First Fitting: Once your aligners are ready, you’ll return to the dentist to receive the first few sets. They will explain how to wear the Invisalign® aligners and provide instructions for their care and maintenance.
- Active Treatment Phase: During the active phase (while your teeth are being moved), you will replace the aligners with the next set approximately every two weeks. You’ll have check-ups every six to eight weeks so the dentist can monitor your progress and make adjustments if needed. During this phase, wearing the aligners for 20–22 hours daily is essential.
- Final Adjustments and Refinement: If further adjustments are necessary near the end of your treatment, wearing refinement trays for one to two months ensures your teeth are in the ideal positions. You can also use professional strength teeth whitening gel with the last set of Invisalign® aligners or the refinement trays.
- Retention Phase: After the active phase, you’ll move into the retention phase. A custom retainer will keep your teeth in their new position so they don’t shift back. Retainers are worn full-time for the first few months and then only at night, depending on your dentist’s recommendation.
Invisalign® vs. Traditional Braces
Invisalign® has several advantages over traditional braces:
- Aesthetics: Clear aligners are almost invisible, perfect for adults and teens who want a discreet but effective teeth straightening treatment.
- Comfort: Invisalign® aligners are made from smooth BPA-free plastic to prevent cuts or abrasions common with metal braces.
- Convenience: The trays can be removed while eating or drinking, making your oral hygiene routine easier.
Children with extensive orthodontic needs can be treated with short-term traditional braces or early intervention techniques by the age of seven. When they are older, they can finish straightening their teeth or aligning their bite with Invisalign®.
When Will I See My Invisalign® Results?
Most patients see subtle changes after the first month and more noticeable changes in three to six months. For severe crowding, overbites, and underbites, it may take longer to appreciate the initial results as the treatment will take longer than average.
Failure to wear your aligners for even one day can disrupt your progress and extend the overall treatment time. If you neglect to wear the aligner trays for a day or two, resume treatment immediately and commit to complying with the treatment. Call your dentist if you have not worn your Invisalign® aligners for several days and the current set does not fit correctly. You may have to repeat two weeks of treatment wearing the previous set of trays.
How Can I Maximize My Invisalign® Results?
To get the best results within the estimated treatment time, follow these tips:
- Wear Aligners Consistently: For 20–22 hours a day.
- Attend Regular Check Ups: These visits are crucial for the dentist to monitor your progress and address issues.
- Switch Aligners on Time: Changing your aligners at the right time keeps your treatment on track, while moving to the next set too early or late can interfere with the treatment timeline.
Practice good oral hygiene habits and clean your aligners regularly. Routine maintenance will prevent staining and bacteria from accumulating and help prevent decay and gum irritation.
Beverly Hills Invisalign®-Approved Cosmetic Dentist
Beverly Hills dentist to the stars Dr. Kevin Sands provides several orthodontic options, including Invisalign®, in the greater Los Angeles area. He is dedicated to transforming problematic smiles and delivering results that consistently exceed expectations.
Before and after pic of a straightened smile.
Dr. Sands’ before and after photos of Invisalign® patients can help you better understand the capacity of these advanced dental aligners in treating mild to moderately severe alignment issues. To schedule your Beverly Hills Invisalign® consultation, call 310.273.0111 or fill out our online contact form to begin the process of achieving a straight and beautiful smile.