Invisalign Treatment Varies from Case to Case
For those in the world with crooked teeth, there is finally a successful alternative to braces. Invisalign continues to grow in popularity as people all over the world praise these aligners for their comfort and near invisibility. They present a more aesthetically pleasing option as opposed to braces. However, many have questioned how long it takes to straighten teeth with Invisalign.
The answer may not be as straightforward as many people would like.
How Long It Really Takes
For those who wonder how long it takes to see results using Invisalign, the simple answer is “It depends.”
Everybody’s mouths and teeth are completely different. Not even identical twins have the same teeth, so it is only natural for there to be no exact timetable for Invisalign to work. However, on average, it takes roughly 12 to 18 months to straighten your teeth. For simple cases, it may take as little as 6 months, and for more complicated ones, it can take as long as 24 months.
For comparison, traditional metal braces typically take an average of 2 years to achieve the desired result for wearers. This is nearly twice as long as Invisalign. On top of that, metal braces are much bulkier and more uncomfortable compared to Invisalign.
Many people who get Invisalign hope they will fix the gaps in their teeth. It can typically take as little as 8 weeks to close small gaps. With that said, it is important to remember that gaps can reform without proper retention methods. A retainer can help keep a gap from reforming.
Why It Varies
When meeting with your orthodontist, it is important to keep in mind that every case will vary when it comes to how long it takes to reach your desired outcome. Specific requirements need to be determined for an accurate estimate to be made. Here are a few things to keep in mind that may affect the time it will take:
- How much your teeth need to move
- Treatment takes longer the farther your teeth have to move
- The pace at which your teeth move varies from person to person
- How complex your case is can affect the time it takes
- If the patient does not wear their Invisalign the required 22 hours per day, the treatment will take longer and will not be as effective
Another point to keep in mind is that like braces you still need to visit your orthodontist every two or three weeks to receive a new set to adjust to any progress your teeth have made already.
On your initial visit, you and your orthodontist will discuss the estimated treatment time, specific treatments, and cost of the treatment. If you follow your doctor’s recommendations, you will set yourself up for success.
Invisalign offers individuals who wish to improve their smile a more comfortable and more natural looking option to teeth correction over braces. Braces often cause discomfort and look bulky. With Invisalign, you will have a much more comfortable experience and will see much faster results. The experienced team at Cosmetic & Family Dentistry of Las Colinas are here to help all of our patients understand Invisalign and how it can work for them.
