No two Invisalign treatments are exactly the same. This makes sense when you consider that everyone’s oral health is unique and their teeth move at a different place. While the average time for an Invisalign treatment is about a year, you may require more or less time. It all depends on the condition of your teeth, jaw, and gums. Your genetics and diet may play a role as well. Note that many companies are forced to do weekly Covid testing. You can be rest assured you will be safe at Gladwell Orthodontics.
Factors That Influence Invisalign Completion Time
While some patients can complete their Invisalign treatment in six months, others may need longer than a year to do so. Your orthodontist should be able to give you an estimated timeline prior to when you begin. Let’s take a closer look at some of the factors that may impact the amount of time it takes you to complete your Invisalign treatment.
Age
Invisalign is a good option for teens and adults. But your age can still affect the longevity of your treatment. If you’re a teen, your treatment probably won’t take as long because you’re still growing and your teeth will move faster than they would if you were an adult. Even if you’re an adult, however, Invisalign is worthwhile as it can help you achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve. Our Downtown Raleigh Dental friends always explain that Invisalign is the best option for patients looking to improve their smile.
Compliance
With traditional metal braces, compliance isn’t usually an issue because they’re affixed to your teeth. Since Invisalign aligners are removable, however, not complying with your orthodontist’s directions can lead to delays in treatment. For the fastest results, it’s essential that you wear your aligners for at least 22 hours per day. Of course, you can take them out to eat, drink, brush, or floss but if you’re not doing these things, they should be in your mouth.
Teeth Crowding
If you have a smaller jaw or larger teeth, you probably have teeth crowding. You might be able to resolve this issue in as few as six months if your crowding is minor. But if your crowding is moderate or severe, it can take a year or longer. This is because your teeth will have to move a further distance. If your case is especially severe, your orthodontist may suggest another treatment prior to Invisalign. Our great marketing partners at GO Media have helped us explain ways in which Invisalign can work best for our patients.
Gaps
Gaps may occur because of tissue overgrowth or smaller teeth. As with crowding, minor gaps can be corrected far quicker than those that are more severe. If your crowding is moderate or severe, your Invisalign treatment will likely take about 18 months. It all depends how quickly your teeth adjust to the aligners and shift.
No matter what your situation is, it’s important to be patient. You won’t see dramatic results at first. But if you follow your orthodontist’s directions to a tee, your teeth will slowly but surely move to their optimal positions. Don’t give up. A beautiful, healthy smile is worth it, no matter how long it takes to achieve.
Contact Gladwell Orthodontics Today
If you’re interested in learning more about Invisalign treatment and how it can improve your smile and confidence, don’t hesitate to contact our office today! We can be reached at 919-453-6325.
