In this brief blog on Invisalign, we answer two key questions:
- How long is the average Invisalign treatment?
- How long does Invisalign last (in terms of its results)?
How Long Is The Average Invisalign Treatment?
A common question from those considering clear aligners is “How long does Invisalign treatment last?” Studies have shown that most Invisalign treatments take anywhere from 6 to 18 months. Some mild cases can be completed in as little as 3 months, while others might extend to the 2 year mark.
However, when it comes to answering “How long are Invisalign treatments?” there are numerous factors that can come into play:
- Severity of misalignment: Naturally, more severe cases take longer to resolve than less serious cases.
- Complexity of the case: Some cases, such as extreme overbites, require more time and effort to correct than minor shifts in tooth alignment.
- Compliance with treatment plan: The more often and consistently you wear your aligners, the faster your results will be.
- Orthodontic experience: Your orthodontist’s knowledge and skill in treating misalignment with Invisalign may impact how long it takes for you to see results.
It’s important to remember that every case is unique, and the best way to estimate how long your treatment will take is to consult your orthodontist.
How Long Does Invisalign Last?
Once you know how long does an Invisalign treatment take, it’s common to ask “How long do Invisalign results last once I’ve completed treatment?” While Invisalign candidates typically see results that last a lifetime, some considerations can affect the longevity of your results.
Age
Younger patients may experience more changes in their teeth and jaw structure as they grow, which can impact the longevity of their Invisalign results.
Oral Hygiene
Proper oral hygiene is critical to maintaining the results of your Invisalign treatment. Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease and cavities, which can undo the work done by your Invisalign aligners. Regularly brushing and flossing and scheduling cleanings will help maintain your results.
Retainer Wear
Retainers are a type of orthodontic appliance used to keep teeth in their new positions once the Invisalign treatment is complete. You will be advised to wear retainers at night to maintain the position of your smile. This is probably the most important factor to retaining your Invisalign results.
Bad Habits
Bad habits such as biting your nails, thumbsucking, or tongue thrusting can reverse the work of your aligners. Consider making the habits you adopted during treatment a permanent part of your lifestyle to ensure your teeth stay straight and healthy.
Lifestyle Considerations
Your lifestyle can also play an essential role in maintaining the effects of Invisalign. Smoking, drinking alcohol excessively, and engaging in other risky activities can damage your teeth and cause them to shift back into their original positions.
Follow-up Visits
Regularly scheduled follow-up visits with your orthodontist are important for ensuring your teeth stay in the desired position. Make sure to adhere to future appointments with your orthodontist.
Contact Bates Orthodontics to Learn More About Invisalign
At Bates Orthodontics, we believe that every patient’s needs are unique and require an individualized approach. That’s why we take the time to evaluate each patient’s orthodontic needs and develop a personalized treatment plan that suits their specific case.
If you’re considering Invisalign treatment, we encourage you to schedule a consultation to discuss your treatment options with Dr. Bates who can determine if Invisalign is right for you. Our experienced team will work with you to ensure a successful outcome and to help you achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve.
Start your journey towards a healthy, beautiful smile today: Book a complimentary consultation.
