When you first think about straightening your teeth, one big question probably pops into your head: “How long will this take?” If you’re looking into Invisalign near you, you’re not alone. Many people want to know exactly what to expect before they start treatment.
Whether you are searching for a dentist near you or looking for Invisalign near you, this blog will give you a clear picture of the process.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign uses clear plastic trays called aligners to move your teeth. Unlike metal braces, you can take these aligners out when you eat or brush your teeth. Each aligner is custom-made to fit your mouth perfectly.
Your dentist in Lloydminster will give you a new set of aligners every one to two weeks. Each new set moves your teeth a tiny bit closer to where they need to be.
Average Treatment Time for Invisalign
Most people wear Invisalign for about 12 to 18 months. However, this isn’t the same for everyone. Some patients finish in just 6 months, while others might need 24 months or more.
The time it takes depends on several things happening in your mouth. Your dentist near you can give you a better idea after examining your teeth.
What Affects Your Treatment Time?
How Much Your Teeth Need to Move
If your teeth only need small adjustments, treatment goes faster. People with mild crowding or small gaps might finish in 6 to 12 months. But if you have severe crowding, large gaps, or bite problems, you’ll need more time.
Your Age
Adults usually take a bit longer than teenagers. This happens because adult bones are fully grown and harder to change. Teenagers’ mouths are still developing, so their teeth often move faster.
How Well You Follow Instructions
This part is really important. You need to wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours every day. If you only wear them at night or forget them often, your treatment will take much longer.
Think of it this way: your teeth need constant, gentle pressure to move. When you take out your aligners too much, your teeth start shifting back to their old positions.
Your Oral Health
Healthy gums and teeth respond better to treatment. If you have gum disease or tooth decay, your dentist will need to fix these problems first. This can add time to your overall treatment.
Invisalign Treatment Timeline Breakdown
Here’s what happens at each stage when you visit a dentist for Invisalign treatment:
Treatment Stage | Time Required | What Happens |
Initial Consultation | 1 hour | A dentist examines your teeth and discusses treatment options |
Digital Scanning & Planning | 1-2 weeks | Creating your custom treatment plan with 3D images |
Receiving First Aligners | 2-4 weeks | Your aligners are made and shipped to the dental clinic |
Active Treatment | 6-24 months | Wearing aligners and regular check-ups every 6-8 weeks |
Refinement (if needed) | 2-6 months | Additional aligners to perfect your smile |
Retention Phase | Ongoing | Wearing retainers to keep teeth in place |
Tips to Speed Up Your Treatment
Want to finish Invisalign in Lloydminster as quickly as possible? Here are some helpful tips:
- Wear your aligners for at least 22 hours daily. Only take them out for eating, drinking anything except water, and brushing your teeth.
- Keep your teeth and aligners clean. Brush after every meal before putting your aligners back in your mouth. This prevents bacteria buildup and keeps your mouth healthy.
- Attend all your dental appointments. Your dentist needs to check your progress regularly. Missing appointments can delay your treatment.
- Use your chewies. These small rubber cylinders help your aligners fit tightly against your teeth. Better fit means better results.
What Happens After Treatment?
Once your teeth are straight, you’re not completely done. You need to wear retainers to keep your teeth in their new positions. Most people wear retainers full-time for the first few months, then switch to wearing them only at night.
Your dentist will explain exactly how long you need to wear retainers. Some people wear them every night for life to maintain their beautiful smile.
Finding the Right Dentist for Your Invisalign Treatment
Choosing an experienced dentist near you makes a real difference in your treatment time. Look for a dentist who has completed many Invisalign cases. They’ll know how to create the best treatment plan for your specific needs.
During your consultation, ask about their experience with cases similar to yours. A skilled dentist can often predict your treatment time more accurately.
Is Invisalign Worth the Time?
Most patients say yes! The clear aligners are comfortable and almost invisible. You can eat whatever you want and brush normally.
Remember, the time you spend in treatment leads to a lifetime of confidence in your smile. Whether it takes 6 months or 18 months, the results are worth it.
Straighten Your Smile Confidently With Invisalign!
At Tooth Suite Family Dentistry, we help you achieve a healthy, straight smile with Invisalign. Our experienced dentist evaluates your teeth and creates a personalised treatment plan. Invisalign aligners are clear, comfortable, and removable, making it easier to brush and eat while straightening your teeth. Ready to start your smile journey? Book your Invisalign consultation today and see a dentist near you!
📍 Find us easily on the Google map and plan your visit today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happens if I don’t wear my aligners enough?
Your teeth will move more slowly or might shift back to their original positions. This extends your treatment time and could mean ordering additional aligners, which costs more money.
Q: Do I need to visit the dentist often during treatment?
Most people visit their dentist every 6 to 8 weeks. These quick check-ups let your dentist monitor your progress and give you new aligners.
Q: Will my treatment take longer if I’m older?
Age can affect treatment time, but it’s not the only factor. Many adults finish Invisalign in an average of 12 to 18 months. Your dentist will evaluate your specific situation.
Q: How long do I wear retainers after Invisalign?
You’ll wear retainers full-time for about 3 to 6 months after treatment ends. Then, most people switch to wearing them only at night, usually for several years, to maintain results.
