How Long Does It Take For Invisalign To Straighten Your Teeth?

Invisalign is increasing in popularity as an orthodontic treatment. People like the nearly invisible aligners and that the trays can be removed for eating. Patients often ask the orthodontists how long Invisalign will take to straighten their teeth. Unfortunately, there is no easy answer. For simple cases, treatment can be complete in as little as six months. In most cases, Invisalign takes 12 to 18 months. For more complex cases, which can include crowded teeth, treatment can take up to 24 months or even longer. Some cases are too complicated for Invisalign to be effective and the orthodontist may suggest traditional braces or another treatment option. No treatment is the same as everyone’s teeth are different.

Why Do Invisalign Treatment Times Vary?

Each case is different. Your orthodontist will communicate your specific requirements and provide time estimates for how long the treatment will take. The main components that how long Invisalign treatment takes include:

  • How much your teeth need to move to achieve the desired outcome.
  • How long your teeth take to move.
  • The complexity of your case.
  • How compliant you are in wearing the Invisalign aligners for the required 22 hours each day.

During your initial consultation, your orthodontist or dentist will provide you with an estimate on how long your Invisalign treatment will take. They will create a complete treatment plan including the estimated treatment time, recommended treatments and the cost for Invisalign.

How Long Does Invisalign Take to Close a Gap?

Invisalign can be used for closing gaps between teeth, however there are some limitations. Invisalign can treat gaps up to 6 mm, however, it make take up to 24 months. If a single gap or multiple gaps combined are more than 6 mm, Invisalign is not an effective treatment option.

How Long Does Invisalign Take For Crowded Teeth?

If the teeth crowding is not sever, it can be complete in as short as 6 to 12 months for Invisalign to correct. More severe crowded teeth require a longer treatment plan. In severe cases of teeth crowding, Invisalign may not be the optimal treatment option. Your orthodontist will share their professional opinion. They may recommend using other treatments along with Invisalign or suggest that you not use Invisalign at all in your treatment.

Does Invisalign Take Longer to Straighten Teeth For Adults?

Invisalign doesn’t necessarily take longer to treat adults compared to treating children or teenagers. Everyone’s teeth are different and some people’s mouths move more easily than others. Age is not a determining factor.

Recommended Amount of Time For Wearing Invisalign

Many potential Invisalign patients like the ability to remove their alignment trays. In comparison, traditional metal braces can’t be removed. Many patients do not realize is that the Invisalign trays have to be worn for 20-22 hours daily in order to be effective. Patients should only remove their retainers to eat, drink, brush their teeth and work to minimize the amount of time the trays are not worn. Patients who are considering Invisalign should evaluate if they are disciplined enough to wear the retainers for 22+ hours a day. If there are any doubts in their ability to comply with this requirement, alternate orthodontic treatments may be more effective.

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