Invisalign® is a popular orthodontic choice for people who want to straighten their teeth without using metal braces. The aligners are clear, removable, and custom-made in order to move your teeth to the desired positions.
One of the most common questions patients have about Invisalign® treatment is how long it takes to complete. Everyone is different, but there are typical lengths of time depending on individual needs.
Average Treatment Time for Invisalign®
Invisalign® treatment typically takes between 6 and 18 months, although more complex cases may take up to two years. Mild orthodontic concerns may be treated in as little as three to six months, while more complex cases generally take longer.
Treatment duration varies depending on the extent of tooth movement and the frequency with which aligners are used. Patients should wear their aligners for up to 20 to 22 hours daily to experience the expected outcomes. Failure to follow instructions can lead to extended treatment duration.
Factors That Affect Treatment Length
Some of the factors that affect how long the treatment will take include the seriousness of the misalignment. Minor spacing and crowding cases take shorter periods than other complicated bite and alignment problems. Patient compliance is another significant factor.
Consistent wear and timely change of the aligners according to the dentist’s instructions is essential for faster treatment. Not following these instructions can extend treatment time. Routine visits to the dentist ensure that everything is going as expected.
Treatment Planning and Refinements
Prior to beginning Invisalign®, a treatment plan is created using digital imaging technology, which maps out the planned tooth movements throughout the treatment process. The treatment plan serves as a guide for treatment; however, it can be modified according to the movement of the teeth.
Other patients may need modification of the aligners after the first set of aligners. These additional aligners help move the teeth into their final planned positions. Careful planning and periodic adjustments help support predictable outcomes.
What Happens After Treatment
After Invisalign® treatment, most patients will get a retainer because teeth have the natural ability to move. Retainers play an important role in ensuring that you sustain your smile for as long as possible after Invisalign® treatment.
Retainers help preserve the results of your orthodontic treatment and reduce the risk of teeth shifting. There might also be follow-up appointments scheduled to ensure proper alignment. Maintaining results is an ongoing process.
Schedule a Consultation
The duration of Invisalign® treatment varies from person to person, but most people experience some improvement within a matter of months when wearing their aligners regularly. Consultation with a specialist would be the best approach to find out what you can expect from your treatment.
If you want to get personalized Invisalign® treatment plans for faster and better results, visit our dental care center at Bay Colony Dental today. For more information on Invisalign®, contact us at (281) 337-9000.