Which Factors Determine the Timeline for Invisalign?

Straighter teeth not only produce a more beautiful appearance but also allow for better oral and overall health. While many individuals turn to traditional braces to eliminate gaps, address overcrowding, and realign overbites, Invisalign is often viewed as a more discreet alternative that generates faster results than regular orthodontics. But just how much quicker can patients expect to see straighter teeth? Keep reading to discover which factors play a role in the timeline for completed treatment.

What is the Average Amount of Time Spent Wearing Invisalign?

Compared to the average timeframe for metal braces, which is roughly 2-3 years, Invisalign can straighten teeth in 12-18 months.

This drastically reduced timeline is often appealing to prospective patients; however, it must be understood that not all individuals can expect to be finished with Invisalign treatment within 1-1 ½ years. Why? Many factors can indicate a shorter or longer period.

Invisalign Factors: Which Ones Determine the Timeline?

There are several factors a person can expect their dentist to consider when building a treatment plan for Invisalign. Once these are established, the individual will have a clearer understanding of how long they can prepare to wear their clear trays until ultimate results are achieved. These include:

• The Severity of Dental Issues: Are teeth crowded, crooked, or gapped? Is the bite misaligned, causing an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite? Invisalign treats mild to moderate cases; however, everyone’s situation is different, so it will take less time to close a small gap than to fix a serious open bite.
• An Individual’s Age: Adults may spend more time wearing Invisalign because their teeth and jaws are more affixed in place. Teenagers’ facial development is still growing, so results are likely to be quicker. However, what is the ultimate factor is how quickly teeth move.
• Compliance with Treatment: Invisalign requires that patients wear clear aligners for 20-22 hours a day. If this is followed, individuals can expect to be finished with their treatment on time. However, if one chooses to disregard the 22-hour rule, there is a good chance that additional time wearing Invisalign will be required, as it will take longer for teeth to move into their proper position.

Each person is different, which means their teeth will move at various speeds. While it’s safe to say that 12-18 months is the average amount of time one can expect to spend wearing Invisalign, it’s important to be flexible should treatment go longer.

About the Practice
Sunny Dental is a reputable practice located in Lancaster, TX, and is home to multiple dentists and specialists who remain dedicated to creating healthier smiles. Offering an array of treatment options, one that many people to turn for straighter teeth is Invisalign. Known for their discreet appearance and flexibility, these clear trays can also produce faster results on average. To learn more about whether Invisalign is right for you, visit our website or call (469) 765-8050.