How Long Will Invisalign Take?

Person holding Invisalign aligners outdoors with a confident smile showing straight teeth

Getting Invisalign has never been easier—it is a discreet and convenient alternative to traditional braces, and through the use of innovative technology like the iTero scanner, you can craft your perfect smile.

When considering Invisalign for straighter teeth, many patients wonder about the longevity of treatment. On average, Invisalign treatment lasts between 12 to 18 months, but the duration depends on factors such as the severity of alignment issues, adherence to the treatment plan, and age. By working closely with your dentist and following the recommended guidelines, you can achieve a straighter smile efficiently and on time. 

Braces vs. Invisalign: What’s the Difference?

Invisalign offers a modern alternative to traditional braces, providing unique benefits in several areas:

  • Comfort: Smooth plastic aligners reduce the irritation and discomfort often caused by brackets and wires.
  • Flexibility: Aligners are removable, allowing you to enjoy all your favourite foods and making oral hygiene routines easier.
  • Appearance: Invisalign’s straightforward design makes the treatment nearly invisible, offering a discreet way to straighten teeth.
  • Convenience: Treatment often requires fewer in-office appointments, with progress monitored through virtual check-ins.
  • Customization: Aligners are explicitly designed for your teeth. Your dentist or orthodontist can use specialized digital imaging to mould a precise fit for the most effective treatment.

Invisalign and braces are effective solutions for orthodontic care, but consulting your dentist can help determine which option best suits your needs.

Is Invisalign Faster Than Braces?

For mild to moderate cases, Invisalign can be faster than traditional braces. While braces may take two or more years, Invisalign can typically achieve results in less than 18 months. 

Some crucial factors can impact the duration of your treatment, such as: 

  • Complexity of the Case: The complexity of your orthodontic concerns significantly determines how long Invisalign will take. Mild issues like slight crowding or spacing can be resolved within six months, while more complex cases, such as bite corrections, may extend treatment to two years.
  • Commitment to Wear Time: For Invisalign to work effectively, the aligners should be worn for 20–22 hours a day. Removing them too often or forgetting to put them back after meals can delay the progress of your treatment.
  • Age: Teenagers often experience quicker results due to the flexibility of their developing jaws. Adults can also achieve excellent results, although the process may take slightly longer due to fully matured jawbones.
  • Refinements: In some instances, refinements may be required at the end of the primary treatment to achieve optimal results. These involve additional aligners to address any remaining minor adjustments.
Close-up of a dental professional fitting Invisalign aligners on a patient wearing gloves

Steps During Invisalign Treatment

1. Consultation & Custom Plan

Your Invisalign journey begins with a consultation, where your dentist assesses your oral health and alignment issues. Tools like the iTero scanner create a 3D model of your teeth, which helps design your custom treatment plan.

2. Aligners & Progression

Once your aligners are crafted, you’ll wear each set for one to two weeks before switching to the next. Regular check-ups are scheduled to monitor your progress.

3. Retainers After Treatment

When your treatment concludes, wearing retainers is crucial to maintaining your results. Retainers prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions.

Tips to Stay on Track with Invisalign

To ensure your Invisalign treatment stays on schedule, consider these tips:

  • Wear your aligners for the recommended 20–22 hours daily.
  • Clean your aligners regularly to maintain hygiene and prevent staining.
  • Avoid frequent removal of aligners to ensure consistent progress.
  • Attend all scheduled appointments to monitor progress and address concerns.

Maintaining good oral health throughout treatment is also essential. Brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings help prevent issues that can interfere with your aligners.

Maintaining Your Results Post-Treatment

Once your Invisalign treatment is complete, retainers become essential to maintaining your new smile. Retainers are typically worn nightly to prevent teeth from shifting over time. Your dentist will provide specific instructions on how to care for and wear your retainers.

Regular dental visits remain essential for preserving your oral health. Professional cleanings and check-ups ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy, complementing the results of your Invisalign treatment.

Choose Invisalign with Springbank Dental Centre

Invisalign provides a discreet, comfortable way to straighten teeth and achieve a healthier smile. At Springbank Dental Centre, we offer personalized Invisalign treatment plans designed to meet your specific goals. Our team works to deliver beautiful results and comfort throughout your journey.

Whether you’re just beginning to explore Invisalign or ready to start your treatment, our team is here to help. Schedule your consultation today using our appointment request form. Let us guide you toward the smile you’ve always wanted.