Invisalign Process Time – How Long Does Invisalign Take?

Understanding How Long Braces Take to Work

All braces are designed to straighten your teeth in different ways, with some taking longer than others. The majority of patients aren’t excited by idea of wearing braces for too long, they want quick results with minimal invasiveness.

Fortunately, modern treatments have advanced so much that all orthodontic treatments have relatively quick turn around times (at least in comparison to how long they used to). Due to the advancements within the orthodontic industry (Invisalign included), some treatments are able to see results within months, sometimes even weeks, as opposed to years.

However, it’s important to understand that some treatments may not be appropriate for some patients and that every patient’s treatment plan is unique to their needs. This means that no patient will experience the same treatment timeline, and therefore there is no ‘one timeline for all’ concept.

What Braces Work Fastest?

While all braces treatments are designed to straighten teeth in different ways, some are able to offer faster treatment options. Generally speaking, Invisalign is understood to be the fastest braces treatment. This is because Invisalign is typically used for treating minor cases, meaning only 20-30 sets of aligners are required over 6-8 months (roughly).

Other braces treatments, such as fixed braces (metal and lingual) usually take longer because fixed braces move teeth individually and require monthly check-ups and re-wiring to ensure the alignment process is going smoothly. While you will still have to arrange check-ups with your orthodontist for Invisalign, there’s no re-wiring because your aligner sets eliminate the need for rewiring.

It’s important to remember that treatment options vary greatly from patient to patient, and while Invisalign is widely believed to be the fastest treatment option, your orthodontist will always pick the treatment most appropriate for you.

How the Invisalign Process Works

The Invisalign process works slightly differently to traditional teeth straightening treatments.

First, your orthodontist will take impressions of your teeth, and these impressions are used to create your Invisalign aligners. After your digital scans/impressions has been taken, you will be given your aligners.

The Invisalign system uses these clear aligners to slowly push teeth back into their natural positions. Each of your Invisalign sets (or trays) will be switched out for a new set every two weeks (or so advised by your orthodontist). You will have to return to visit your orthodontist or dentist every 4-6 weeks to ensure your Invisalign treatment is working. If patients adhere to wearing their aligners for the recommended 22 hours a day, they will see faster results.

Additionally, one of the biggest bonuses that comes with Invisalign is that they’re comfortable to wear and removable. Unlike other traditional treatments, that are fixed and can sometimes prove uncomfortable at times (however, these issues are rare and very easily fixed).

How Many Invisalign Aligners Do I Need?

The amount of Invisalign aligners you will need depends on the extent of your treatment. For example, those who only require minimal teeth straightening may be given a set of 10-20 aligners, whereas those with more complex cases will benefit more with 40-50 sets of aligners. On average, patients usually require between 20-30 sets of aligners.

Again, this depends on the treatment plan discussed with your orthodontist. You will be able to find out more about your treatment during your consultation and you will also be given a detailed treatment plan to adhere to.

Is Invisalign Painful?

If your Invisalign aligners are formed correctly, you should experience no pain while wearing them. Invisalign is generally believed to be the least painful teeth straightening treatment because of their simple structure and because they don’t involve the use of wiring or brackets. You may experience some very minor discomfort during the initial stages of wearing your aligners, but this is entirely natural and should fade as your teeth become use to the aligners.

Invisalign Treatment with Splash Orthodontics

Our resident orthodontist Iain Hoeltschi specialises in Invisalign treatments and is able to treat complex cases using the Invisalign treatment. You can book your free consultation today by simple clicking the ‘Free Consultation’ option on our page.

If you’d like to know more about how our Invisalign treatment plans can help you, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team today.