How Long Does Treatment with Invisalign Take?

When you’re trying to determine if Invisalign might be the right choice for straightening your teeth, a lot of questions may come to mind. A very common one is: How long does it really take for Invisalign to straighten my teeth? 

Invisalign aligners, an alternative to traditional braces, are nearly invisible, removable, and typically considered more comfortable by patients than traditional braces. They also require almost no food restrictions, are easier to keep clean, and typically have you in the dentist’s office for fewer appointments. They’re a great choice for many patients who seek teeth straightening. 

How long does treatment take? 

Monterey Peninsula Dental Group is a preferred provider for Invisalign treatment, and from experience, we know many patients worry that clear aligners will take much longer from beginning to end of treatment. It’s a misconception based on the gentler feel of aligners vs. braces, and the fact that they can be removed. 

That, however, just isn’t the case. Invisalign can equal a shorter treatment plan in some cases, and is comparable to traditional alignment treatments for most patients. If patients stick to their treatment plan and wear their aligners for the recommended amount of time daily, the process can be relatively quick. 

Clear aligners from Invisalign are customized for every patient, so the exact timeline to getting straight teeth is a little different for everyone. It’s recommended that patients wear their Invisalign aligners for 20-22 hours each day. By following their dentist’s treatment plan, patients typically use their aligners for around 12 to 18  months, approximately half the time of traditional braces.

Why is there such a difference compared to braces?

The reason Invisalign offers a faster course of treatment than braces for adults is due to the personalized approach of clear aligners. Patients have their aligners changed approximately twice a month, and sometimes even more often, whereas braces are adjusted less frequently. 

For many patients, changing Invisalign aligners doesn’t require a new appointment twice a month in order to see the dentist. In most instances, the new aligners can be changed at home with appointments being required just once every six weeks for checkups and any additional adjustments that may need to be made. 

In fact, patients will likely spend less time in the dentist’s chair than they would with braces due to the latter’s occasional issues like broken wires and brackets. 

What is the personalized approach with Invisalign? 

Your Monterey Peninsula Dental Group family dentist will create a full digital model of your teeth right in the office using cutting-edge 3D scanning equipment. The complete model of your teeth is then processed into a set of correctly-fitting, BPA-free clear plastic aligners, created in a lab. Such advanced techniques allow patients to use their clear aligners 20-22 hours a day, which results in a shorter treatment time to the final result of straighter teeth and a more confident smile. While the Invisalign process can be a little different for everyone, we encourage you to get in touch with us and find out how it might work best for you.

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