Invisalign teeth straightening is an increasingly popular choice over metal braces. But how long does it take to see results?

A beautiful smile radiates health and confidence. But a beautiful smile doesn't come naturally for everyone. Luckily, some orthodontic systemscan help achieve the smile that you want.

With Invisalign, you can get the smile you deserve in a system that's personalized to your individual needs. For many people, Invisalign teeth straightening is much preferred to braces because the Invisalign system offers less hassle and discomfort.

If you're looking to have straighter teeth, it may be a concern to you how long Invisalign will take. This article will break down everything you need to know.

The Typical Invisalign Time Frame

Invisalign uses a system of clear aligners that gradually straighten and move your teeth into place. These aligners are customized for a patient's unique orthodontic needs. Because of this, treatment may be longer or shorter than the average.

The Overall Process

Every patient will have an initial consultation with their dentist. Here is where the assessment of your teeth, jaw, and mouth will take place. At your appointment, discuss your dental needs and end goals with your dentist.

After this, your aligners and any attachments will be made. 3D technology creates each aligner using the specifications needed to shift your teeth in each stage.

Patients will have to wear their aligners for about 22 hours a day, only removing them to eat, drink, and brush their teeth. During the duration of your Invisalign treatment, there are dental visits to check your progress.

During these visits, your dentist will tell you how long to wear the current aligner before moving on to the next in the series. Generally, each set of aligners are worn for two weeks. These visits are typically every six to eight weeks.

On average, the entire Invisalign process takes 12-18 months.

When Will You Start Seeing Results?

Invisalign is designed to move teeth slowly into the correct position over time. Each new aligner shifts the teeth closer to their final location. How long until results become visible can vary from person to person.

For some, the Invisalign treatment can notice a difference in two weeks. Others may have to wait two months before they see results. However, if it's been more than five months, you should see your dentist to ensure the treatment is still on-track.

If you follow the treatment plan created, most patients will see improvement in time.

How to Avoid Extending Invisalign Treatment

When your end goal is straight teeth and a confident smile, you don't want the process to take any more time than necessary. If you want to avoid extending your treatment, there are general rules you should follow.

Wear each aligner for two full weeks or length recommended by your dentist
Wear your aligners for at least 22 hours each day
Keep track of your aligners and the scheduled time frame

Because Invisalign works by slowly shifting your teeth, aligners need the maximum amount of time to do their job. If a set is supposed to shift your teeth over two weeks, it's crucial to wear that set for the two weeks.

Failing to do so may revert your teeth to a previous stage, lengthening your treatment.

The same can be said for wearing your aligners for the right amount each day. It is recommended to wear your aligners between 20-22 hours each day. This means planning in advance to eat and put them back in.

You don't want to make a habit of leaving your aligners off for hours. Those hours add up and can set back your treatment.

The nature of the system is a gradual process, meaning aligners are supposed to be worn in a certain order. Losing an aligner or not putting them on in the correct order can set your treatment back while you wait for a replacement or a correction.

Why Does the Invisalign Time Frame Vary?

The general time frame for most people is between 12-18 months. However, this isn't true for everyone. Individual patients may have more severe issues that will require a longer treatment time.

Patients who have crowded teeth or are looking to close a gap may experience longer treatment time frames. Adults may have their teeth straightened faster compared to teenagers.

Invisalign and Crowded Teeth

If your teeth press together but are misaligned, you may have crowded teeth. This can result in some teeth sitting higher, ahead, or behind other teeth. Invisalign is able to straighten crowded teeth.

Mild cases of crowded teeth may take six months of treatment for finished results. However, teeth crowding cases that are more severe can take longer. An orthodontist may suggest headgear or removing teeth in order to get the desired result.

Invisalign and Teeth Gaps

Gaps in teeth, whether between the two front teeth or between more, usually take about eight weeks to close. The issue with teeth gaps that can make the treatment last longer is not using the proper aftercare.

Gaps can return if you ignore the proper retention methods. Using a retainer following treatment will keep the gaps from reforming.

Invisalign for Adults vs. Teens

Invisalign takes a little more time for teenagers than for adults. However, since both have their permanent teeth, this is more often because teens may not wear their aligners for the appropriate amount of time.

Invisalign varies for each patient because every patient is different. Mouths differ from each other. Where one person's teeth move easily, the next person's teeth may not. This is why it's important to stick to your treatment to get the desired results.

The Time Frame: Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces

Invisalign is often most patients' first choice when deciding how to straighten their teeth. Many like the clear aligner look over braces, but Invisalign does have some benefits over traditional braces when it comes to the time frame.

Overall, Invisalign is quicker than traditional braces. Where braces can take over two years, Invisalign treatments take on average 12 months. In half the time of traditional braces, Invisalign delivers similar results.

The convenience of Invisalign is a major draw. Traditional braces attach directly to the teeth and limit the foods you can eat, the way you brush, and some activities you can do.

Invisalign has no such restrictions. You can eat anything as long as you take your aligners out first and brush your teeth before putting them back in.

The number of appointments is about the same. However, appointments make sure your treatment is on track and moving to the next aligner. And while brackets are prone to falling off braces, Invisalign aligners are prone to fewer breaks.

Invisalign Teeth Straightening

Invisalign has many benefits over its traditional braces counterpart. With the ease of use and less time spent on treatment, there's no question why Invisalign teeth straightening is the preference for many.

Dentiland in Zona Rio Tijuana, Mexico offers Invisalign services for everyone. Ready to straighten your teeth and want to know if Invisalign is right for you? Allow us to help you get your most confident smile yet.

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