How Long Does Invisalign® Take?
Interested in Invisalign® and wondering how long it takes? Its discreet design makes it a popular choice for people who want to straighten their teeth without drawing attention to the process. But how long do you actually need to wear the aligners before seeing results?
The answer isn’t as straightforward as it seems, and only your dentist can give you a definitive treatment timeline. Understanding the different Invisalign systems can give you a useful starting point.
How Long Does Invisalign Take to Straighten Teeth?
Here are the different Invisalign systems and their approximate timelines:
Invisalign First
Developed for young children 6–10 years of age, this system works with mixed dentition, or a mix of primary and permanent teeth. It addresses early alignment issues and supports healthy arch development to create space for incoming adult teeth.
Approximate treatment time: 4–6 months
Invisalign Go
This system is designed to treat mild to moderate spacing or crowding of the teeth including and in between the first premolars or second premolars, which are visible when you smile. It’s also ideal for teeth that have shifted after using dental braces.
Approximate treatment time: 3–6 months
Invisalign i7
Specifically designed for minor spacing or crowding of the front teeth and to prevent relapse after an orthodontic treatment. It features 7 sets of aligners, with each one typically worn for 2 weeks at a time.
Approximate treatment time: 3–4 months
Invisalign Teens
This system enables adolescents to straighten their teeth confidently, without the self-consciousness that often comes with using metal braces. It comes with compliance indicators that help teens follow the recommended wear time of 20–22 hours per day.
Approximate treatment time: 12–18 months
Invisalign Full
This comprehensive system addresses a wide range of teeth misalignment conditions, from moderate crowding and spacing to more severe cases, including bite issues such as overbites, open bites, crossbites, and underbites. It includes an unlimited number of trays to make sure that the teeth straightening goal is reached by the end of the treatment period.
Approximate treatment time: 12–18 months
Nearly Invisible Teeth Straightening: Invisalign in Wirral
Looking for a clear way to straighten your teeth? Get Invisalign at Wallasey Village Dental Practice, where we treat our patients as family. With over 50 years of experience delivering quality dental care, our team of dentists work hard to deliver personalised treatments in comfortable surroundings.
Teeth straightening doesn’t have to be embarrassing. Let us help you get the beautiful smile you deserve. Contact us now for an Invisalign consultation in Wirral.
FAQs
1. Is Invisalign safe for children?
Yes. In fact, there is a special Invisalign system called Invisalign First that’s specially designed for children. This version works with both primary and permanent teeth and helps the arch develop, so there will be enough space for adult teeth.
2. Will Invisalign solve crooked teeth?
Yes. Invisalign uses clear aligners to shift crooked teeth until they are in the correct, straight position. The system is almost invisible, offering a discreet way to straighten misaligned teeth.
3. Are Invisalign aligners removable?
Yes. The clear plastic aligners are designed for easy removal. You can take them off before meals, and before brushing your teeth for good oral hygiene. The aligners can also be taken off before taking photos so they won’t interfere with your smile. However, aligners should still be worn for 20–22 hours per day to stay on track.
4. Can Invisalign help with orthodontic relapse?
Yes. Specifically, Invisalign Go and i7 systems work well for teeth that have moved again after finishing an orthodontic treatment. The aligners can help ensure that the teeth maintain their correct positions and prevent relapse.
5. Do I need to use Invisalign daily?
Yes. Invisalign should be worn for 20–22 hours every day to achieve your teeth straightening goal in time. If you wear the aligner for shorter periods, you won’t get the results you need on schedule, and the treatment time can take longer.
6. Is Invisalign completely invisible?
No. The clear plastic aligners sit closely over the teeth, blending in naturally rather than concealing them, giving the appearance of near-invisibility.. Also, they are customised to ensure a perfect, discreet fit that won’t interfere with the aesthetics of your smile.
7. How do I clean the Invisalign aligner?
You can keep your Invisalign aligner clean by using a soft toothbrush and mild antibacterial liquid soap. Use these with lukewarm water to remove food bits that might be left from your meal. Avoid using hot water as this can damage the plastic material.
8. Can I eat with Invisalign?
No. You should remove the aligner before eating. By doing this step, you can protect the aligner from getting damaged by hard food, or from becoming discoloured by staining items.