Invisalign clear aligners have become the most sought-after orthodontic treatment option worldwide, owing to their superior comfort, convenience, and inconspicuousness compared to traditional braces. But, if you are also considering Invisalign for straightening your teeth, you might be thinking about how long this treatment will take. However, if an internet search did not provide sufficient answers, don’t worry; this blog explains everything you need to know about Invisalign aligners and, more importantly, how long Invisalign treatment will take to complete. So, read on to find out more!
How Long Does The Invisalign Treatment Take?
The average time taken by Invisalign aligners to correct tooth misalignment depends on various factors, such as the severity of the underlying issue, the patient’s age, treatment compliances and, more importantly, the dentist’s skill and experience. However, mild to moderate misalignment cases can take anywhere between 6-8 months for completion. On the other hand, complicated or complex orthodontic issues may take up to 30 months for completion. Similarly, patient compliance is also an essential factor when it comes to the treatment duration. For example, the treatment duration can be prolonged if one does not wear their aligners for the prescribed duration each day.
What Are The Advantages Of Invisalign?
Invisalign aligners offer various advantages compared to traditional braces. Some of these include:
- Inconspicuous – virtually invisible when worn. Hence, no effect on one’s smile or facial aesthetics
- Comfortable – Invisalign causes considerably lesser discomfort and tooth pain than fixed braces
- Convenience – you can remove your aligners easily for eating or drinking anything
- Dietary Freedom – you can eat all your favourite foods without any restriction
- Oral Hygiene Maintenance – removable aligners allow one to maintain optimal oral health as they can be easily removed while brushing or flossing
When Should I Start Seeing Invisalign’s Results?
Invisalign aligners begin to move and realign your teeth as soon as your wear your first set of aligners. However, since tooth movement is slow, you will only see a visible improvement in tooth alignment after wearing one or two aligner sets. So, don’t be worried if you don’t see any results immediately after starting your treatment; orthodontic treatment is a slow but steady process.
How Many Times A Day Can I Remove Invisalign?
Although you have the freedom to remove your aligners whenever you want, it is not recommended to remove them unnecessarily. For example, taking off your aligners while eating or brushing is permissible. However, you should put them back on immediately afterwards. Generally, you are required to wear your aligners throughout the day for an optimal treatment outcome.
Do You Really Have To Wear Invisalign For 22 Hours?
Yes, the manufacturers of Invisalign aligners recommend that patients wear their aligner trays for at least 22 hours daily. Why? Because the longer you wear your aligners, the more will be the tooth movement and the faster you will achieve your desired results. Individuals who are inconsistent in wearing their aligners or those who fail to wear them for the prescribed duration must undergo treatment longer than those who follow their dentist’s instructions.
Is Invisalign Better Than Braces?
Every orthodontic treatment option has its own merits and demerits. Likewise, Invisalign aligners are better than traditional braces in some aspects. Firstly, Invisalign aligners are removable; hence, you can eat all your favourite foods without difficulty. Secondly, Invisalign aligners are made of a flexible, transparent material which makes them comfortable to wear and inconspicuous. Finally, Invisalign aligners allow one to maintain their oral health optimally. So, Invisalign is better than braces in these aspects.
What Can Invisalign Not Fix?
Invisalign aligners are generally suitable for fixing mild to moderate orthodontic issues like minor misalignments, crowding, or teeth spaces. However, these aligners may not be suitable for complex procedures such as extreme misalignment or cases where rotation of the teeth or bite correction is needed. In these cases, fixed braces may be a better treatment option. Your orthodontist will advise you regarding the most suitable treatment option after a thorough clinical examination.
How Long Does Invisalign Take To Close A Gap?
The time required by Invisalign aligners to close teeth gaps depends on various factors, such as the severity of the problem, patient compliance in wearing the aligners, and the dentist’s skill. However, Invisalign can fix mild teeth gaps in 6-8 on average, while more complicated cases might take up to 24 months.
How Long Does Invisalign Take If You Already Had Braces?
If you have previously undergone treatment with braces and you need re-treatment, you can get the fine-tuning done with Invisalign aligners. Since partial orthodontic treatment has already been done with braces, re-treatment with aligners won’t take long. Usually, such cases can be re-treated within 6-12 months.
Do Metal Braces Work Faster Than Invisalign?
Traditional metal braces are the gold standard for orthodontic treatment. Some of their advantages include fast treatment, especially for complicated cases. So yes, braces work faster for complex orthodontic issues, while Invisalign aligners are a faster treatment option for mild to moderate orthodontic issues.
Getting orthodontic treatment for teeth straightening can be a big decision for many. That is why, one should always go to an experienced, qualified, and friendly dentist, as Invisalign treatment continues long-term. If you are looking for a friendly and gentle-dental orthodontic practice in Didcot, the Smile Practice is where you should go for all your dental needs. So, book a free consultation appointment with us to discuss your treatment options and let us give you a smile that you genuinely deserve!
