How Long Does Invisalign Take?

This is a very common question that we get during Invisalign consultations. Determining the cost and treatment duration of Invisalign isn’t impossible, but it is almost impossible to give you an exact timeframe without knowing what treatment you will need and examining your smile. So before you find anymore conflicting reports online, consider the following information that cosmetic dentist Dr. Lance Timmerman would like you to know:

Every Patient is Unique

Every single individual has unique dental needs. Even the dental needs of identical twins can differ. This is because our mouths are affected by our choices, our habits, and even accidents from the past. Comparing your case with that of a stranger isn’t fair! Some people need more time than others to correct their teeth alignment. Others may only need to have one or two teeth tweaked just a bit.

It’s difficult to guarantee a range for all Invisalign cases. Sometimes, the plan changes while you’re undergoing treatment because your teeth didn’t respond as expected. The surest way to get an estimate is to have a full Invisalign examination. Once your records are assessed by your dentist and the Invisalign lab, your treatment will be projected onto a timeframe. However long you need treatment for is what your cost is based upon. In most cases, you can simply make low monthly payments until the treatment is completed.

Comparing Invisalign with Traditional Braces

Depending on the severity of the case, regular metal brackets and wires can take upwards of two years to correct a smile. As with traditional braces, Invisalign varies in how long it takes to correct alignment issues. Invisalign can work in as little as six months, or it can take up to two years, depending on your needs. The average treatment time for most patients is roughly 12 to 18 months.

There are extra time savings associated with the Invisalign system, however. When wearing regular braces, you need to make multiple trips to the office for adjustments. Invisalign office checkups are few and far between compared with traditional orthodontia. Because of the convenient tray system used with Invisalign, you’ll save on hours otherwise spent in a chair with your mouth open while a doctor or assistant adjusts the wires and bands.

How the Invisalign System Works

Each custom tray you receive is made to be worn for two weeks before replacing it with the updated set. This way, your teeth are gradually and gently guided into new locations with no more force than that used with regular braces. When the process is over with, you’ll need to wear a retainer to keep your teeth in their new positions.

You may start noticing a change within just a couple of months of starting treatment! The key is to wear your trays consistently. Only take them out to brush and floss or during meals. If you neglect to wear them, this doesn’t merely draw out the treatment process, but it can allow the progress made to be reversed.

Find Out More Information

To learn more about the Invisalign treatment process, ask a skilled Seattle Invisalign provider such as Dr. Lance Timmerman for some real life success stories. He will carefully assess your orthodontic status and help you see whether Invisalign is right for you.