How Long Will It Take for Invisalign to Straighten My Teeth?

A lot of people are reluctant about orthodontic treatment because they don't want to spend the next couple of years with bulky brackets or wires.

The good news is that you don't necessarily have to. If you're only dealing with a mild or moderate misalignment, you can use Invisalign to straighten your teeth. 

How long will Invisalign treatment last? 

Here's a quick answer. 

How Long Does Invisalign Take? 

Well, it depends on the complexity of your case, the specific alignment issues you are dealing with, and how consistently you wear your aligners. But, generally speaking, Invisalign treatment lasts between 12 to 18 months.  

Why is Invisalign faster than braces? It all has to do with the amount of control you have during Invisalign treatment. 

The treatment plan is mapped out in detail from the start using 3D digital imaging technology. This allows the our Alexandria orthodontist to visualize the entire treatment journey and plan the exact movements of each tooth. 

The trays are also customized throughout the treatment. You will get a new, customized set of aligners every 1-2 weeks. This consistent and continuous pressure can sometimes move teeth more efficiently than traditional braces, which are typically adjusted once every 4-6 weeks.

Rules for Successful Invisalign Treatment 

Invisalign treatment can be considerably faster than traditional braces IF you comply with some crucial rules: 

• Wear Your Aligners As Instructed: You should wear your Invisalign aligners for 20-22 hours a day. Only remove them for eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing, and flossing. Inconsistent wear can delay progress and prolong your treatment time.

• Change Your Aligners As Instructed: Most likely, you will get a new set of aligners every one to two weeks. Don't move to the next set early, and always follow your orthodontist's instructions.

• Keep Your Aligners Clean: Clean your aligners daily to avoid staining and bacteria trapped between the trays and your teeth. You can do so using a toothbrush with soft bristles and non-abrasive toothpaste. 

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth after each meal before putting your aligners back in to prevent food debris from getting trapped. 

• Don't Eat or Drink With Your Aligners: Eating can damage your aligners, and drinking anything other than water can stain them and potentially lead to tooth decay. 

• Store the Trays Properly: Always store your aligners in the case provided by your dentist when you aren't wearing them. This will help to prevent loss or damage. 

• Go to Regular Dental Check-ups: Attend all scheduled dental appointments so your dentist can monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. 

• Wear Your Retainers to Maintain the Results: Once your treatment is completed, you will likely need to wear a retainer to prevent your teeth from gradually shifting back to their initial positions. 

Is Invisalign for Me? 

Schedule an appointment with 320 Dental Studio to find out if Invisalign can help straighten your teeth. Contact us online to request a consultation with Dr. Joseph Haack.