Invisalign is a popular way to straighten your teeth without the hassle of bulky metal brackets. Instead, these clear plastic aligners fit snuggly over your pearly whites to gradually shift them to their ideal placements. If you’re new to the treatment, you may have questions about what to expect as far as a timeframe. How long does it take before you can remove your aligners for good and show off your newly perfected smile? Continue reading to learn the answer!
How Long Do I Need to Wear My Aligners Every Day?
For everything to go according to plan, you’ll need to wear your aligners for 22 hours every day. Essentially, you’ll only take them out to eat, drink, and complete your dental hygiene routine. Many people ask if they need to wear their aligners at night while they’re sleeping and the answer is absolutely, yes! If you don’t wear them for the prescribed length, then your teeth will revert to their previous positions, and you won’t be able to upgrade to your next set. This can add days or even weeks to your orthodontic schedule.
How Many Months Does Treatment Take?
One of the advantages to Invisalign over traditional braces is that on average, it only takes about 12 months to wrap up compared to several years. That said, the timing depends on the condition of your teeth so only your dentist can give you a true estimate.
Some factors that impact the length of your treatment include:
- Your oral health. If you have cavities or gingivitis, your dentist will need to work with you to clear it up before beginning orthodontic therapy which can add to your overall timeline.
- Gaps. Whether due to shifting placements or teeth that are too small in relation to your jaw, it can take several additional months to pull them together and eliminate spaces in your grin. Minor gaps won’t take as long but if you have larger ones, it can take up to 18 months total.
- Overcrowding. If you have minor adjustments that need to be made to separate teeth that have grown too close together, you might only need 6 months to complete them. Moderate problems take about a year, and severe issues can take even longer.
- Your age. Younger mouths are more flexible and so it doesn’t take as long for teens to finish as it does for adults because their teeth tend to move faster.
- Unforeseen circumstances. Sometimes, patients simply have a tooth that’s stubborn or won’t shift as anticipated. Your dentist will have to alter your plan to accommodate such unexpected occurrences.
If you still have questions about what to expect from your Invisalign treatment, ask your dentist. They’re the only ones who can accurately let you know when you’ll see your perfect smile emerge!
About the Practice
At Blue Back Dental, patients benefit from a team of dentists who provide a full range of services from two convenient locations, including Invisalign orthodontics. With modern convenience and high-end technology, you’ll feel comfortable while receiving the most up-to-date treatments. Our experts are happy to answer your questions about clear aligners whether you want to know about timing, cost, or what to expect along the way. You’re welcome to request a consultation appointment on the website or by calling (860) 233-9300.