Timing Alignment: How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?

If you’ve heard of Invisalign, you likely already know some of its key traits. Its trays are popular because they’re metal-free, removable, and nearly invisible to the eye. Still, you may have a lingering question: How long does Invisalign treatment take? This procedure’s timeline could affect whether or not it suits you and your smile. That being said, your Denton dentist can address your worries. Here’s a primer on Invisalign’s average timeline, what affects it, and how to shorten it.

How Long Does Invisalign Usually Take?

On average, an Invisalign treatment takes about 12 months to wrap up. It often needs that much time to shift crooked teeth into the right positions. Even so, most patients should see notable changes within 4-6 weeks of starting the Invisalign process.

Despite the points above, don’t forget that each patient is different. Your own Invisalign journey may require more or less than the average time. You should consult your local dentist if you want a more exact estimate.

What Affects the Treatment Timeline?

Several key factors can affect Invisalign’s treatment time, making it higher or lower. These include:

• Case Severity –  Depending on the severity of your smile’s misalignment(s), Invisalign can take more or less time. Mild crowding and tooth gaps don’t take much time to correct. Meanwhile, grave misalignment problems require a lengthier treatment.
• Patient Age – Patients in their teenage years often enjoy a faster Invisalign process than adults. Older teeth tend to be more firmly set in one’s jaw, so moving them with clear trays tends to take longer.
• Treatment Compliance – How long Invisalign takes often depends on whether you meet its suggested wear time. If you don’t, you’ll likely extend the aligning process by months or more.

How to Shorten the Invisalign Process

Several things would make your Invisalign treatment faster. In particular, you could do the following:

• Meet the Treatment Wear Time –  If you wear your aligners for 20-22 hours per day, your treatment will go faster than it would otherwise.
• Keep a Clean Smile – Daily brushing and flossing will help you avoid oral issues, which can delay Invisalign treatment.
• Get Dental Checkups – By attending regular checkups, your dentist can assess your Invisalign progress and replace trays as needed.

Ultimately, how long Invisalign treatment takes is up to you. Make sure you follow its guidelines to get a straight smile more quickly!

About the Practice

Aguilar Family Dentistry is based near the heart of Denton, TX. Led by Dr. Aguilar, our practice is always ready and eager to help patients’ smiles shine and thrive! It’s for that reason that we customize our preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments to each unique mouth and its needs. At the same time, our team can provide you with Invisalign aligners tailored to your teeth. For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (940)-566-5332.