Average Length of Time for Invisalign Treatment

Invisalign® is an effective, comfortable and popular alternative to braces for delivering a gorgeous smile. Instead of requiring long-term affixation as braces do, these custom trays are removable. Individual follow-up visits do not take long at the dentist’s office, and the results after treatment are undeniable.

What Invisalign® treatments are like

Invisalign® trays are designed digitally based on careful analysis of the patient’s mouth. Each tray features minor adjustments in tooth alignment that gradually help mold teeth into the desired smile. Liners are changed every one or two weeks as teeth move into proper alignment.

What to expect on the initial visit

The first visit gives dentists the opportunity to speak with patients and determine the goal of treatment. This visit is also the time to perform a digital mapping of the patient’s mouth, including current tooth position and bone structure. Dental professionals use digital x-rays, photographs and dental molds to build a precise 3-D impression of the mouth. This helps them to design a treatment plan that is used to create unique Invisalign® trays for each step of the alignment process.

Wearing Invisalign® trays during the day

It is recommended that patients wear liners for approximately 20-22 hours a day. This helps teeth move in the correct direction as quickly and consistently as possible. The liners are made from a special type of clear thermoplastic that is designed to be practically invisible during the day.

Patients can remove the trays easily to eat meals and drink any beverages without problems. Trays can also be removed before brushing or flossing. Even though they are designed to be worn all day long and during sleep, Invisalign® liners are specifically crafted to provide a comfortable fit.

How follow-up visits work

Dentists schedule follow-up appointments approximately every four to six weeks. This gives them the opportunity to make sure that the process is progressing correctly, as well as to answer any patient concerns or help make the experience even more comfortable.

How long most patients need to continue Invisalign® treatments

The average time that the patient has to continue treatment is from 12-18 months. However, total treatment time varies significantly since no two smiles are exactly the same. When only minor corrections to overbite, underbite or gaps are required, the desired results may appear within six months. When more extensive alignment issues are present, patients may need liners for a longer period.

Dentists inform patients of the estimated time required for alignment changes during the first visit, but final results can depend on several factors:

• How closely the dentist’s instructions are followed
• Whether patients wear the liners 20-22 hours daily
• How complex the original issues were

Small changes are often noticeable within the first two-week period, and by the end treatment, the difference is amazing. Of course, with severe misalignment problems, some patients may require traditional braces instead. These factors are taken into account during the initial consultation.

Conclusion

Invisalign® liners are an excellent option for crafting the beautiful smile of your dreams. They are more comfortable than traditional metal braces and deliver noticeable results in a short time. It is easy for many patients to switch aligners on their own, and dentists are available for assistance.

Request an appointment here: https://www.yourhuntsvilledentist.com or call René A. Talbot, DDS at (256) 382-6690 for an appointment in our Huntsville office.

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