If you are thinking about investing in Invisalign, it is to be expected if you have some questions about the journey ahead of you. Many patients ask, “When will I start to see results?” and “How long will I have to wear Invisalign?” The answers to those questions vary from patient to patient. While you may see initial results in just a few months, your total Invisalign timeline may last for much longer. Let’s discuss some of the factors that influence how long this orthodontic treatment takes to complete its job.
Your Orthodontic Problems
The average treatment time with Invisalign is 12 months. However, since every individual’s mouth is unique, your orthodontist will have to design your Invisalign treatment based on your particular needs. If you are using Invisalign purely for cosmetic purposes — for example, if you just want to shift a few of your front teeth — your treatment might take as little as 6 months or so. Additionally, it might not take too long to move your teeth if you have undergone orthodontic treatment in the past and your teeth have only drifted slightly back out of place.
On the other hand, if your dental misalignment is more serious, you might have to wear your aligners for 18 – 24 months.
Your Age
As we age, our bones — including the ones that hold the teeth in place — tend to become harder and less malleable. Hence, it may take longer for the teeth to shift into their proper positions. Virtually any adult or teen can use Invisalign, but middle-aged and senior patients might have a slightly longer treatment journey ahead of them.
Your Level of Commitment
What you do on a daily basis will have a large bearing on your treatment’s ultimate outcome. In order for Invisalign to work as quickly and efficiently as possible, you will have to adhere to all of your orthodontist’s instructions for using your aligners. You can avoid unnecessary setbacks by:
- Wearing your aligners for 20 – 22 hours each day. This is the amount of time it takes to properly move the teeth.
- Wearing all attachments as instructed.
- Taking good care of your aligners. By avoiding risky habits that could cause you to damage or lose an aligner, you can prevent the need for your orthodontist to order a replacement.
- Diligently attending your Invisalign checkups. These visits usually take just a few minutes, but they will prove to be a key element in your treatment’s success.
When you first embark on your Invisalign treatment, it might seem like you have a long road ahead of you. But you may be surprised by how quickly the time passes. You could have a gorgeous, well-aligned smile before you know it!
Meet the Practice
Dr. Amin Mason and our team at Columbus Orthodontic Center have helped countless individuals to benefit from Invisalign. If you are curious to learn how long it may take to straighten your teeth, we will happily arrange a personalized consultation for you. Contact us at 614-549-5835 to ask questions or schedule an appointment.
