If you have crooked teeth, you’re probably researching your options to help you achieve a straighter smile. Invisalign is one popular solution that most patients prefer because treatment is discreet and comfortable! But before moving forward with it, you might be wondering how long the clear aligners will take to work. Luckily, we can help you understand what to expect from the process. Read on to learn what the average Invisalign timeline is based on several factors.
How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take to Work?
Unfortunately, it’s hard to give a definite answer because it truly depends on your unique case. The Invisalign timeline varies from person to person based on a variety of factors. Plus, each person’s teeth move at a different pace. Although the average timeline for Invisalign is about 12 months, you may require more or less depending on the condition of your jaw, gums, genetics, and even your diet.
Why Does the Invisalign Treatment Timeline Vary?
As mentioned earlier, your Invisalign timeline will depend on several factors, including:
Severity of Misalignment
If your teeth require more in-depth changes to achieve the desired result, you may need to wear Invisalign for longer than average. When dental problems involve the teeth and jaw, your orthodontist will use many approaches to correct them.
Crowded Teeth
The severity of your crowding also affects your Invisalign timeline. For example, patients with mild cases can complete corrections in as little as six months. But for those with more severe crowding, your orthodontist will continue providing aligners until your teeth are straight.
Gaps in Your Smile
Gaps in your teeth can make treatment take longer. Since the teeth have to move farther, more time will be needed to correct the spaces.
Patient Age
Each person’s teeth move at a different pace, but age can certainly affect the rate at which they shift. Since pre-teens and teenagers are still growing, their teeth tend to move faster and easier than adults. However, that doesn’t mean adults and seniors can’t get Invisalign!
Compliance
Not wearing your clear aligners as instructed can significantly extend your treatment time. For the best results, be sure to follow your treatment plan as directed!
How to Shorten Your Invisalign Treatment Timeline
One benefit of Invisalign is that there are several steps you can take to ensure your treatment timeline is as short as possible, such as:
- Wearing your aligners for the prescribed amount of time every day (usually 20 to 22 hours each day)
- Carefully handling your aligners and cleaning them as recommended
- Moving onto new tray cycles as instructed by your orthodontist
- Being patient with your treatment plan
Ultimately, proper dental care and staying on top of your treatment plan will help you get a beautifully straight smile in no time!
About the Practice
At Heart of Texas Smiles, we provide exceptional, individually tailored, comprehensive dental services that are bound to exceed even your highest expectations. Our goal is to help you achieve and maintain a smile you can proudly show off. If you are considering Invisalign, we can help you determine whether it’s the best solution for your oral health needs. Visit our website or call (254) 776-3310 to schedule a consultation.