Did you know that overlapped teeth can impact your appearance and your dental health? You might worry about how others will judge you and avoid spending time with them. It’s also harder to clean overlapped teeth because you can’t reach all their surfaces, increasing your vulnerability to tooth decay and gum disease.
Your dentist can reposition your grin with Invisalign, but many patients want to know how long treatment typically lasts before they commit. If you’re curious, keep reading to learn more!
What is Invisalign
Traditional braces are the tried-and-true method for straightening smiles, but many people don’t want to deal with the hassle of having metal brackets attached to their enamel for long periods. Invisalign is a discreet alternative that utilizes clear plastic trays that fit snuggly over your teeth to shift them instead.
Every one to two weeks, you’ll be given a new set to wear to account for the ongoing movement. Each set must be worn for 20 to 22 hours daily to prevent your pearly whites from revering to their previous places.
How Long Does Invisalign Typically Take?
Invisalign offers many popular benefits, like a lack of dietary restrictions due to removable trays. It also tends to work faster than standard orthodontics, but it depends on your unique circumstances. Everyone’s teeth move at a slightly different pace, but it typically takes 12 to 18 months to finish treatment, compared to the 12 to 24+ months it takes braces.
What Factors Affect My Treatment Timeline?
Several considerations can affect how long you’ll need to wear Invisalign, including:
- The severity of your condition. Mild misalignments can sometimes be corrected in as few as 6 months, but more severely crooked grins typically take longer to shift.
- Whether there are gaps. If you’re trying to close spaces in your smile, it can take longer than usual because your teeth may have to shift farther than they would otherwise.
- Your age. Many people undergo orthodontics during their teen years when their jawbones are more flexible. Adults can complete Invisalign successfully, but it may take longer due to more firmly rooted teeth.
- Whether you comply. If you don’t wear your trays for the allotted time, your teeth might relapse. You may have to repeat previous aligners to get back on track, extending your timeline.
If you’re still unsure how long your Invisalign treatment will take, the best way to get an accurate answer is to ask your dentist during your consultation. They can give you a realistic idea based on their examination findings.
About the Practice
At Marvel Dental & Orthodontics, you benefit from a team of dentists who take pride in helping you build your happiest, healthiest smile. They have years of combined experience and offer a comprehensive array of services, including Invisalign, to people of all ages so you and your family enjoy the same trustworthy care. They are members of several prestigious organizations, including the American Dental Association, to stay current with the latest methods and techniques. If you want to upgrade your grin, you can request an appointment on the website or call (682) 772-3072.