Invisalign treatment works the same for every patient – nearly 24/7 wear of clear aligners, switch the trays out every two weeks, and visit your Fort Lauderdale Invisalign provider every six to eight weeks. However, though the wear time rules are consistent for everyone, how long it really takes to complete Invisalign treatment will depend on the complexity of your case.
Varying Alignment Needs
Each Invisalign patient has different alignment needs, and there are several types of Invisalign treatment plans available to suit your unique oral health. The treatment you qualify for will determine how long this process really takes.
- Invisalign Full: This traditional alignment method takes about one year to complete. Trays are worn on both the top and bottom teeth. Though some cases may take a little longer to complete, this is the treatment that makes it possible to correct major issues like overbites, underbites, open bites, and more.
- Invisalign Lite: The Invisalign Lite version differs in treatment length and requires only about six months, give or take, to correct spacing issues or mild overcrowding. Many adults who have a few minor alignment issues find this type of Invisalign to be just right for their teeth.
- Invisalign Teen: Designed just for qualified tweens and teens, this advanced form of Invisalign can improve bite and move the jaw forward. There is also room left in the trays for teeth that have yet to erupt. Small blue compliance indicators are added to each tray and wear off when the aligners are worn properly. The time commitment for Invisalign Teen is at least one year, but likely longer.
- Invisalign Express: There are many adults who didn’t wear their retainer after completing orthodontic treatment during adolescence – and now they want to fix the problems that have reemerged. Invisalign Express takes about three to six months to do just that. This is also the ideal treatment for patients who have spaces in their otherwise aligned teeth and want to close things up for a complete-looking smile.
The Invisalign Treatment Time Commitment
When it comes down to it, Invisalign treatment is a time commitment for every patient, no matter what version of the alignment method you qualify for. It’s a daily obligation that demands attention to detail and dedication to the rules so you get the best results in the budgeted amount of time. But don’t stress out – beyond your responsibilities to wear the trays for the bulk of each day, clean them properly, remove them for meals, and see your dentist regularly, you don’t have to worry about much.
How long Invisalign treatment takes and the success of the results has everything to do with how dedicated you are to the instructions your provider gives you.
If you are interested in this orthodontic alternative and discreet path to a straight smile, schedule a consultation with Dr. Charmaine Johnson at Premier Smile Center in Fort Lauderdale.
