Invisalign® is a great invisible alternative to metal braces, especially for adults who want to straighten their teeth as subtly as possible. One question that our patients often ask is “how long does it take to see results with Invisalign®?” The answer will make you smile.
What Is Invisalign®?
Invisalign is a series of clear, custom-made clear aligners that fit over your teeth and straighten them over time. They can move your teeth in almost any direction! Patients receive a new aligner each week for gradual yet noticeable results and should wear their aligners for 20-22 hours per day.
Difference Between Invisalign® & Metal Braces
While metal braces stay on your teeth for as long as your orthodontist recommends, Invisalign aligners are removable and should not be worn when you eat or brush your teeth. This means that sticky and crunchy foods that patients with metal braces are warned to steer clear of are okay to eat for those that opt for Invisalign and that brushing teeth is less complicated. Just make sure to keep the sticky foods to a minimum!
Patients with metal braces are expected to have appointments with their orthodontist every few weeks to get any adjustments made, while Invisalign® patients are required to change their aligners every couple of weeks in order to see results faster. Invisalign® patients need to clean their aligners daily just as they would a retainer.
Determining Length of Treatment
As with all teeth straightening treatments, the length depends on how much correcting your smile, but the average case takes about one year. Keep in mind that Invisalign is optimal for those with issues like overbites, gapped teeth, underbites, teeth crowding, open bites, and crossbites. Patients that have issues with severely rotated teeth or their back teeth may not benefit from Invisalign treatment and should consider other options.
If you’re considering Invisalign® treatment, our team at Green Tree Dental is here to help you with any and all of your questions. Contact us to schedule an appointment!
