Breaking Down the Invisalign Experience

It’s one of the biggest questions patients have about Invisalign: How long is this going to take? You want straight teeth, and you want them sooner rather than later. Understandable. However, the best answer when it comes to time commitment is this: Every patient is different. Invisalign is a treatment that is surrounded by numbers. Time to break it down so you can see just what this alignment method expects of you.

How long do I have to wear Invisalign?

The average Invisalign treatment is completed in about 12 months. Some cases may be shorter, some cases will take longer. The length of the treatment is determined by several things: what position your teeth are in at the start, the treatment plan your Invisalign provider has created for you, and how well you follow the prescribed treatment.

If a year or more seems like a long time, just remember that Invisalign can take half the time of conventional metal braces. Want even faster results? Ask your Haymarket dentist about porcelain veneers – it’s the fastest way to get a straight, white, flawless smile.

How often do I need to see the dentist when wearing Invisalign?

No one wants to be at the dentist more often than necessary. The great part about Invisalign is that the treatment is designed so you don’t have to be making the trip to the dental office too often. Every six weeks or so, you will be seen to ensure that your teeth are moving as they should be, and to pick up your next sets of aligners.

How long do I wear each set of Invisalign aligners?

Invisalign expects a lot from its wearers, including dedication to the treatment on your own time. You need to wear each set of aligners for about two weeks (sometimes a little longer if your Haymarket Invisalign provider determines that movement needs more attention).

The science behind Invisalign is that teeth are moved just a few at a time. Your entire smile isn’t being altered at once. The aligners are designed to move specific teeth at specific times.

Do I have to wear Invisalign constantly?

Invisalign braces are not like traditional metal braces. You are not held captive to the nearly invisible aligners. You are free to take them out whenever you please, or if you would feel better not having them on for a special event or photograph. Keep in mind, however, that not wearing the aligners as indicated will interrupt the progress of your treatment.

The aligners are removed for eating and cleaning and can be removed briefly at other times, if desired. The rule, however, is that aligners must be on your teeth from 20 to 22 hours every day. You’ll only be removing the aligners about four to six times a day. Invisalign is created to be comfortable and discreet. The only thing getting in the way of excellent results is your dedication to the treatment.

Do I only wear a few sets of aligners?

Because every patient has different needs when it comes to aligning their teeth, the number of aligners they are instructed to wear will vary. The number usually ranges between 18 and 30 aligners, depending on how much your teeth must move to get them in the proper position.

Have more questions about Invisalign? Talk to your Haymarket Invisalign provider Dr. Sina Reangber to learn more and get information about whether you are a candidate for Invisalign Express. Contact LifeTime Smiles to schedule your appointment.