Whether you’re considering getting your teeth aligned with invisible aligners or traditional metal braces, you probably have questions and potential concerns about the process’s length. At Richmond Virginia Orthodontics, we’re excited to offer Invisalign to our patients who want a better smile faster than with metal braces and with far fewer inconveniences.
What are Invisalign Invisible Aligners?
The Invisalign treatment utilizes clear, removable molded aligners to straighten teeth. They’re practically invisible and don’t have the eating restrictions associated with braces. The process starts with making a digital map of your teeth and plotting the exact movements over time to get them in the desired position. Depending on the severity, the Invisalign process typically needs 14 to 36 trays to apply the right amount of force in the right direction at specific times to get the final results.
How long does Invisalign take in Richmond?
It’s important to note that the amount of realignment needed plays the leading role in how long either Invisalign or braces take. However, Invisalign finishes the process in significantly less time. You need to wear them for a few months to a year less than traditional metal braces. So, let’s compare the timeline expectations between the two:
- Traditional metal braces take between 18 and 24 months, with the majority of cases lasting between 1 and 3 years. However, significant issues may take longer to address.
- Invisalign invisible aligners usually take between 4 and 18 months to complete, with most cases taking less than 2 years. Mild crowding and minor imperfections can take 3 to 4 months, whereas mild to severe alignment adjustments typically take 12 to 18 months.
With both solutions, age is also a factor, with younger patients needing less time. Additionally, the significant gaps between teeth can take longer to correct.
There’s plenty you can do to stay on schedule with Invisalign:
- Wear the aligners for at least 22 hours a day. Unlike with braces, it’s okay to take the aligners out for a little bit if you need to; just be mindful that taking them off for too long could extend the time you need to wear them.
- Replace cracked or damaged aligners immediately to keep progress on schedule.
- Change aligners according to the schedule.
- Regularly clean the aligners, avoiding exposing them to heat or wearing them while having drinks that can stain them.
Invisalign Treatment Time Richmond, VA
While you can estimate how long Invisalign will take based on generalization, the only way to know the exact timeline is to work with an orthodontist who has examined your teeth. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, call us at (804) 884-9906 or contact us online.
