Teens and adults alike are turning to Invisalign to address their orthodontic needs. It should be no surprise since these clear aligners straighten teeth and align bites without restricting any freedoms.
But do they work as quickly and effectively as traditional metal braces? Just how long does Invisalign take to straighten your teeth? Let’s find out.
How Long Does Invisalign Take to See Results?
It takes about 12 to 18 months to straighten teeth with Invisalign. Straighter teeth may be less than a year away for those who only need minor orthodontic treatment. On the other hand, more complex treatments will require additional time.
When you have your consultation with your orthodontist, you will be given an estimate of how long you will be required to wear your aligners. A good rule of thumb is the more aligners you have in your set, the longer the treatment.
So, how quickly can you begin seeing results?
Believe it or not, many see Invisalign working — encouraging teeth to move into their new position. This is sometimes visible in just a few weeks and for others, a few months.
Compliance with Invisalign Treatment
While your individual orthodontic need plays a large role in how long it will take to straighten teeth, your level of compliance can also impact the timeline.
Invisalign allows you the freedom of being able to remove your aligners when needed, such as when eating or when brushing or flossing your teeth. However, for them to work, they have to be properly worn for at least 20 to 22 hours every single day.
Failing to comply with treatment as instructed by your orthodontist can result in a delay in your timeline. Or, it may cause treatment to fail altogether. After all, if you are not wearing the aligners then they are not working.
Does Invisalign Take as Long as Traditional Braces?
Traditional braces often take an average of one to three years in order to see the best results of treatment. This means that, technically, Invisalign actually takes less time than the metal brackets and wires.
This highly efficient treatment plays a role in reaching success in a shorter time frame. But it is also worth noting that complex orthodontic issues cannot be addressed with Invisalign — and this can add to the increase in timeframes when it comes to traditional braces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any foods you can’t eat with Invisalign?
No, you do not have to change your diet or the foods you consume when using Invisalign as you remove them while you eat. It is always a good idea to brush or at least rinse after eating — before replacing your aligners.
How painful is Invisalign?
Invisalign uses soft, plastic aligners that are not painful. However, each time you switch to a new aligner, it will feel snug and may cause some very temporary discomfort.
Interested in Learning More About Invisalign?
Are you interested in learning more about Invisalign? Do you want to see if you are a candidate for this treatment? Whether you are a parent or a teen, the team at Suffolk Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics can help you straighten your smile.
Contact us today at 631-928-8585.
