What is the Average Time Needed For Invisalign to Straighten Teeth?

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average time needed for Invisalign to straighten teeth

Invisalign has become an increasingly popular orthodontic treatment for patients looking to enhance their smiles. Patients highly enjoy this process due to its discrete characteristics and comfort. Invisalign consists of clear aligners that use unique technology to shift patients’ teeth into a healthier position. The length of treatment will vary depending on the patient, and their dentist in Okotoks is the only one who will be able to correctly state how long it may take. The aligners may only need to be used for 6 months for very simple cases. However, most cases take around 12 to 18 months to complete; complex cases can take 12 to 24 months. Some patients may require more than two years with Invisalign to achieve their desired results, but it is highly subjective on their unique dental situation.

With Invisalign, no treatment is the same. If your oral health requires more serious attention, you’ll likely be advised by your dentist to try a different orthodontic treatment such as traditional braces.

Why Does Length of Treatment Vary?

After a patient decides to get Invisalign in Okotoks, their dentist will tell them how long their specific treatment will be. Since each case is different, the length of treatment is only determined after the individual’s teeth have been examined. The fundamental components that determine how long the process will take include:

  1. The original state of a patient’s smile and the outcome they wish to achieve with Invisalign.
  2. How long a patient’s teeth will take to re-arrange.
  3. How complex the patient’s case is.
  4. How cooperative a patient is when it comes to wearing the aligners.

Considering all these factors, a patient can estimate how much time it will take to achieve their desired results. It’s best to discuss this with a dentist near you if you’re interested in establishing an accurate timeline. Keep in mind that your results are dependent on how compliant you are while wearing the aligners and how your teeth move during their use.

Can Invisalign Close Teeth Gaps?

Invisalign may be used for various treatments, including misaligned teeth and gaps. The gaps must be 6mm or less to be successfully treated with the clear aligners; gaps that are larger may need traditional orthodontic treatment. Closing gaps with Invisalign can take up to 24 months, depending on the number of spaces and other factors affecting your teeth.

Can Invisalign Treat Crowded Teeth?

Teeth crowding that is not severe can be treated with Invisalign for a maximum of 12 months. Some cases may only need 6 months for desired results. The time to align crowded teeth will depend on the severity of the patient’s smile. Like gaps between teeth, your dentist may recommend an alternative treatment, such as traditional braces, depending on the severity of crowding. They may also recommend using other supplementary treatments besides Invisalign.

Does Treatment Length Vary from Children to Adults?

The treatment time does not necessarily change based on age. It mostly varies based on the severity of patients’ cases and the initial state of their smiles. Adult patients who, for example, have already had braces may not need Invisalign for long to achieve their desired results.

Recommended Time for Invisalign

Patients will be asked to remove their aligners during their oral hygiene routine which includes during mealtimes. Dentists will provide their patients with cases where they can store their Invisalign during breaks. Commonly, Invisalign trays will need to be worn for at least 20 hours in one day, though many dentists recommend 22 hours a day instead.

Interested in Invisalign Near You?

Contact our dental clinic today to book your next appointment and start your smile-correcting journey with Essential Dentistry. Our staff will be happy to assist you!