When Invisalign debuted its clear aligners, the world of orthodontics was forever changed. Now, more than 17 million patients have chosen this orthodontic treatment. Although the prospect of having metal-free braces is certainly enticing, there are other noteworthy perks, including the fact that the average treatment timeline is shorter. If you are curious how long Invisalign takes, then keep reading to learn the average as well as four factors that play a role.
So, What’s the Average Treatment Timeline with Invisalign?
The average Invisalign treatment timeline is 12-18 months. Since traditional braces typically take two years or more, that’s a considerable improvement! Now, patients can straighten their teeth without the metal, dietary restrictions, complicated oral hygiene regimens, and lengthy treatment timelines.
4 Factors That Play a Role
Of course, 12-18 months is just the average; it’s possible for your treatment plan to be shorter or longer than that. At your consultation, your dentist will review your dental history, take the necessary X-rays, and conduct a visual exam. Then, they will provide you with an estimate of your treatment timeline, taking into account important factors like:
- If any preliminary treatments are needed
- The complexity of your case
- Your age
- How many aligners need to be made
How To: Stay On-Track with Your Invisalign Treatment
Remember, the timeframe we provide you with at your initial consultation is only an estimate. If you don’t wear your aligners consistently or you misplace them often, there’s a good chance that weeks or months will be added onto the backend of your treatment. That’s why patients are encouraged to follow all of the guidelines provided, including:
- Wearing the aligners for a minimum of 20 hours a day
- Using chewies to seat the aligners into position
- Taking the aligners off before eating or drinking anything (other than water)
- Cleaning the aligners with cool or room-temperature water
- Placing the aligners in their designated case when they aren’t being worn
- Prioritizing the progress visits
Ultimately, if you would like an estimate of your treatment timeline with Invisalign, the best thing to do is schedule a consultation! During your visit, your dentist can provide further insight and give you helpful information on what to do to avoid frustrating delays.
About the Practice
Our team at Morgan Dental Care wants you to have a smile that’s healthy, strong, and beautiful. We also want you to have a positive experience on the journey to it, which is why we offer everything from routine checkups to Invisalign at our conveniently located office in Gorham. If you are interested in learning more about clear aligner treatment, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with us via our website or by phone at (207) 839-2655. We look forward to hearing from you!
