In most cases, you should not expect to see results from orthodontic treatment in only a few months. It takes time for teeth to shift and reintegrate in their new location. Each situation is unique, which is why it’s impossible to determine how long Invisalign will take. That is, until you meet your orthodontist for a consultation. If you are considering clear aligners to straighten your smile, keep reading to learn how long you can expect to wear your braces before achieving results.
What Factors Can Impact Your Treatment Timeline?
Several factors can contribute to your Invisalign timeframe. Since each case is different, your orthodontist must clearly evaluate your smile and the severity of the dental problem before deciding the details of your treatment plan.
Some of the most common factors that impact the timeframe include:
- How overcrowded, gapped, or misaligned your teeth are, or how severe your malocclusion might be.
- How well you adhere to the 20-22-hour wear time, which is essential if you want to avoid any possible delays or complications.
- How well you keep your aligners clean, as bacterial accumulation can lead you to avoid wearing your trays.
- Your age can also play a role, especially since teenagers often experience faster tooth movement because they are not set in place.
What Occurs During Invisalign Treatment?
After learning that you are a suitable candidate for Invisalign, your orthodontist will take impressions of your mouth and send them to a lab. There, technicians will build your aligners to follow the progression of your smile. You will be required to wear them 20-22 hours a day to ensure proper and timely movement.
Every two weeks, you will be required to remove your existing trays and replace them with a new set. As a result, your teeth will begin to move into the right position.
As long as you adhere to the instructions provided and helpful tips you are given, you can expect to see results in 12-18 months. However, some cases require more time, especially if one or more teeth are not moving as expected. This is when additional accessories may be required, including rubber bands and attachments.
Regardless of whether you need further orthodontic intervention to move your smile into its rightful place, the Invisalign process is easy to manage in everyday life. No matter how long it takes to see results, trust that, in the end, every step is worth it.
About the Author
Dr. Tamara Jones is an orthodontist who earned her dental degree at Baylor College of Dentistry – Texas A&M Health Science Center. She then pursued orthodontics at one of the top programs in the country: The University of Texas at Houston. There, she completed her master’s degree and orthodontic certificate. Providing exceptional care to her patients, she is pleased to provide Invisalign as a preferred alternative to traditional metal braces. Visit our website or call (972) 238-7101 to learn more about this clear aligner system and how it works.