April 25, 2022
In this article, we’ll explore the Invisalign results timeline. While you should visit an experienced orthodontist to get the full answer, this article will give you a better idea of what to expect from Invisalign treatment.
When Do You Start Seeing Results With Invisalign?
During the first phase of Invisalign treatment, clear aligners exert pressure on the teeth, jaw, ligaments, and gums. At this stage, you will slowly begin to see gaps closing and teeth shifting into the correct position.
Most Invisalign patients start seeing noticeable results within the first three months. Some patients may notice a change in the first two weeks, but this is less common.
If you don’t notice any changes after the first five months of Invisalign, schedule a follow-up appointment with your orthodontist. Dr. Sharp or Dr. Moore will examine your mouth to determine whether something is delaying your expected results.
How Long Does it Take Invisalign to Straighten Teeth?
On average, Invisalign takes between 12 to 18 months to fully straighten your teeth. However, your individual treatment timeline depends on the severity of your case, your desired results and your compliance with the treatment plan outlined by your orthodontist.
Remember: Invisalign aligners must be worn for a minimum of 20 to 22 hours per day. Each time you remove your clear aligners, you’re temporarily “pausing” the alignment process; and if your aligners stay out for too long, your teeth will begin to shift back into their previous position.
If you have mild crowding, gaps, or rotation issues, your treatment time will likely be shorter than someone whose case is more severe.
It is important to remain patient and diligent with your treatment plan. Invisalign results don’t happen overnight, but they’ll take even longer if you stop using your aligners as directed by your orthodontist.
How Long Do Invisalign Results Last?
While Invisalign can give you a great smile, the results won’t be permanent unless you follow the aftercare instructions from your orthodontist. For many patients, this means wearing a retainer to keep the teeth from reverting back to their original position.
Thankfully, maintaining your Invisalign results is simple. You'll likely be instructed to wear a retainer while you sleep. There are several different types of retainers available to fit your lifestyle and preferences.
Invisalign vs. Braces: Results Timeline
The results timelines for Invisalign and traditional braces are similar, but it depends on the individual, though Invisalign typically requires fewer office visits. At Sharp Orthodontics we prioritize your time and implement remote monitoring for most of our patients, so we can see you more with fewer office visits!
Traditional braces use a combination of metal brackets and wires that are frequently tightened to gradually push the teeth into place over time. The average time traditional braces take to achieve full results is 18 to 24 months.
Invisalign uses a series of clear plastic aligners that fit tightly over your teeth. Each set of aligners gradually moves the teeth further towards a perfect smile. The average Invisalign treatment plan takes 12 months, though it can be as short as 6 months for minor adjustments. It all depends on your desired results and the treatment plan outlined by Dr. Sharp and Dr. Moore.
Invisalign Timeline: Adults vs. Teenagers
Most teens don’t love the idea of having braces. That’s why we offer Invisalign® Teen, a clear alternative to brackets and wires, specifically developed to meet teens’ unique orthodontic needs. Dr. Sharp and Dr. Moore are leading providers of Invisalign® Teen, so they know how to give teens the smiles they want – without the fuss.
Adults and teenagers can expect results in a similar timeframe, but it may take slightly longer for adults. The main difference is that adult jawbones have stopped growing, so they're harder to correct than teen jaws, which are still developing. This is why Invisalign typically takes less time for teens than it does for adults.
The average Invisalign case takes about 12 months to complete. However, depending on the severity of your case, you may need to wear aligners for an extended period of time. The good news is that the Invisalign timeline is typically limited to 18 months, so treatment is usually finished by the time your teen is ready for college.
How to Get The Full Answer
Invisalign is a great way to achieve a beautiful smile, but the timeline will be different from person to person. This is why you should consider a consultation with your orthodontist. If you’re ready to take the next step and learn if Invisalign is right for you, Contact Sharp Orthodontics today for a free virtual or in-person smile assessment by clicking the button below!