Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment for teens, offering a more discreet, comfortable, and convenient alternative to traditional metal braces.
It can be used to correct a variety of issues, from overcrowding to gaps between teeth. But how long does it take? That’s what this article is all about. We’ll cover how Invisalign works, the length of treatment, and how to best prepare for your Invisalign journey. Keep reading, and you’ll quickly have the answers you need to make an informed decision about your orthodontic care.
What Issues Can Invisalign Treat?
Invisalign is most used to correct crowding, gaps, or misaligned teeth. Crowding occurs
when teeth are too close together, leaving small spaces between them. Gaps are smaller openings between teeth, and may be caused by a crooked tooth, the size of your mouth, or both.
The treatment process is the same for all patients, no matter which specific issues they have. However, it’s worth noting that some treatments are longer than others. This is usually because the aligner is removed and replaced more frequently. The length of treatment depends on your age and the severity of your issues. In general, two months is long enough to complete treatment.
If you’re still experiencing issues after that time, you may need treatment by a specialist. Once you begin treatment, your orthodontist will examine your teeth and gums to determine the best way to move them. Your orthodontist will then create a treatment plan, which includes the type of aligner you’ll be wearing. Depending on the type of treatment you have and the issues you’re trying to correct, your orthodontist may use clear aligners, invisible aligners, or both.
How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?
The length of Invisalign treatment depends on your age and the issues you have. If you’re a teen who completed Interceptive orthodontic during your pre-teen years, Invisalign treatment may last 6 to 9 months. Teens will usually be fitted with invisible Invisalign aligners that are changed every one to two weeks.
You’ll wear the aligners while you go to school, eat meals, and take a break while your teeth are being moved. Your orthodontist may prescribe mouth guards or toothpaste to help keep your teeth in place while you wear the aligners. If you’re older and have more severe issues, treatment may last up to 24 months.
As we mentioned earlier, the treatment time will depend on your issues. If you have mild crowding, you should be able to complete your Invisalign treatment in two months. However, if you have more severe issues, you may need to wait a little longer.
Factors That Affect Treatment Time
When you have orthodontic treatment, your orthodontist will first examine your teeth and gums. This will determine the best way to move them. Once you have your treatment plan, your orthodontist will determine the length of treatment based on your age and the severity of your issues.
Your orthodontist will also take into account factors like your appetite and level of activity. The key to a quick and effective treatment is good oral hygiene. Always brush your teeth and floss at least once a day. Your orthodontist will also advise you on your diet, and you may also be asked to use special mouthwashes or sprays.
Preparing for Invisalign Treatment
Before you begin your treatment, it’s a good idea to discuss your treatment plan with your orthodontist and your parents. This way, you’ll know exactly what you need to do. Unlike metal braces, Invisalign can be done almost entirely at home.
However, your orthodontist may recommend that you wear an aligner at school for a short time. This can be helpful for keeping your teeth in line during mealtime and recess. It can also help you avoid taking time off from school for an extended period of time. It’s also a good idea to have an emergency plan in case your teeth start to shift unexpectedly during treatment.
Invisalign Teen in Cos Cob
Dental technology has come a long way, and traditional braces are sometimes not the most desirable option for young patients. This is one reason why the Invisalign Teen system was developed. Invisalign Teen is an excellent option for most patients, and we’ve seen great success with this system at our practice.To learn more about Invisalign Teen, contact us today by calling 203-625-9888.