People who decide to use Invisalign® or traditional braces to adjust their teeth are often very eager to see a new and improved smile as soon as possible. However, moving teeth is a process that cannot be rushed without the risk of potential long-term damage to the patient’s teeth and jawbone. Luckily, in most cases, Invisalign® produces quick results and treatment is completed faster than it would be with traditional braces.
The length of time it takes for patients to clearly see movement of the teeth depends heavily on the severity of the problems dental professionals are trying to correct. In addition to the condition of the teeth, a person’s genetics, jaw shape, age and how many hours a day they wear the trays can impact how long it will take for Invisalign® to begin noticeably shifting the teeth. For most patients, initial results can be seen in as little as six weeks to two months.
However, because the course of Invisalign® treatment is planned out from beginning to end as a series of gradual shifts among the teeth, initial results may seem less dramatic in comparison to the results seen from traditional braces. Movement may be less noticeable at first because unlike with traditional braces, not all teeth will have force acting upon them at all times. Instead, the first noticeable movements will likely be subtle and intentional as the trays work to make room along the jaw for larger movements in the future.
Some patients may feel that six weeks is still too long to wait for results from treatment, while others may fall into the category of patients who do not see noticeable results for over three months. However, even when a patient feels like the teeth are making little to no progress, Invisalign® is working below the gum line. When wearers do not see the teeth move, the aligners are likely causing the ligaments beneath the gums to slowly move into the appropriate position. Therefore, even if a wearer does not see results as quickly as hoped, they can rest assured that the clear aligners are moving teeth at the correct pace to ensure the health and longevity of a new smile.
Despite how subtle results can be at first, the Invisalign® process is on average quicker than smile correction with traditional braces. Patients typically are able to complete treatment within 12-18 months, and because the trays are clear and removable, patients can enjoy a new smile much sooner than if the teeth were fitted with brackets and wires.
Because Invisalign® trays are not affixed to the teeth, it is up to the patient to wear the aligners 20-22 hours a day and change the trays on a set schedule. By responsibly following a treatment plan, patients are more likely to see the desired results as quickly as possible.
Invisalign® patients frequently see results soon after starting treatment. For those who do not, patience and consistent wearing of the trays will ensure that the overall treatment plan is completed on time.
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