Invisalign treatment is a great modern alternative to traditional braces. It can effectively fix a variety of orthodontic issues, such as misaligned teeth, gaps between teeth, overbite and underbite, etc. But how long does Invisalign take? In this article, we answer this question and talk about the advantages and disadvantages of this method of orthodontic treatment.
How Long Does Invisalign Take?
Several factors can influence the duration of your Invisalign treatment. Two main factors are the severity of the orthodontic issues that need to be fixed and the consistency with which you wear your aligners. On average, Invisalign treatment can take anywhere from 6 to 18 months. Only your orthodontic specialist can determine the exact amount of time needed to complete your Invisalign treatment after examining your case and the results you want to achieve.
If you have a straightforward case of minor teeth misalignment, you can expect to complete your treatment in as little as 6 to 10 months. However, if your case is complex and involves several different orthodontic issues, the treatment can take as long as 18 months.
How Does Invisalign Straighten Your Teeth?
Similar to other orthodontic methods, such as braces, Invisalign straightens your teeth by applying constant and strategic pressure to specific teeth and forcing the jawbone and gums to reposition. This process will likely cause soreness and discomfort at different periods during the treatments. You will need to switch to a new set of Invisalign trays approximately every 2 weeks. The discomfort is typically the most noticeable at the start of each period as your teeth adjust to the new trays.
Why Is It Necessary to Wear Invisalign All the Time?
The discomfort of your teeth shifting may tempt you to remove the aligners for longer than necessary. However, for the teeth to keep moving into a proper position, the pressure applied to them has to be constant. You will need to wear your aligners at least 22 hours a day, removing them only when eating or brushing your teeth. Otherwise, the treatment will likely not produce the planned results or can be significantly prolonged.
Invisalign Versus Traditional Braces
There is a misconception that Invisalign can take longer than traditional braces. In fact, however, both treatment methods take approximately the same time for comparable orthodontic issues. There are some other differences between the two treatments you might want to consider when choosing the suitable option for you:
- As we mentioned before, Invisalign might not be as effective as traditional metal braces for some complex and severe cases of misalignment or bite issues. Metal wires can withstand more pressure since metal is more durable than plastic. Thus, metal braces can move severely misaligned teeth more effectively.
- Traditional braces generally require more frequent visits to the dental office for adjustments than Invisalign. With Invisalign, you will be provided with a few sets of trays you can switch every 2 weeks and will occasionally need to visit your doctor to check on your progress. Thus, Invisalign can be more suitable for people who travel often or can not visit their dental office regularly due to other reasons.
- Traditional braces can be much more challenging to clean than Invisalign. Also, brushing and flossing with braces can be more difficult, too, and you might need additional tools for your hygiene routine. Since Invisalign aligners can be removed, you can brush and floss your teeth as you usually do and clean the aligners separately. The ability to remove the trays decreases the risk of cavities and teeth staining that can occur with traditional braces.
- Invisalign aligners, being clear and transparent, are almost not noticeable in the mouth, while braces are quite apparent.
- Since Invisalign aligners can be removed at will, wearing them requires commitment and willpower for the treatment to be effective. If you are not sure that you will be able to wear your aligners all the time, we recommend considering braces that can be removed only by a dental professional at a dental office.
Start Your Treatment Today
Start your orthodontic treatment with a dental specialist at Dentist Mission Viejo today. Do not hesitate to call our office and make an appointment with one of our leading orthodontic specialists. We will conduct a comprehensive examination of your orthodontic issues and offer you the solution that will be most effective in your case.
We look forward to your visit.