As an adult, the idea of orthodontic treatment can be quite daunting; metal braces often need to be worn for two or three years. Invisalign in Virginia Beach is often a much faster and more comfortable solution!
November 25, 2019
The Length of Invisalign Treatment
The average Invisalign case usually lasts about one year – much shorter than the treatment time usually required by those who wear braces instead. Of course, the exact length depends largely on the amount of correction that the teeth need; more complex cases will naturally require additional treatment time.
Factors That Can Affect the Length of Your Invisalign Treatment
Severity of Orthodontic Issues: If you only have a few gaps or a couple of crooked teeth, your treatment is likely to be very short – less than a year in some cases. On the other hand, if you have multiple cosmetic issues, you’ll probably need much more time.- Compliancy: It’s important to wear your aligners for 22 hours a day (20 hours at the absolute least); that basically means keeping them in your mouth at all times except during meals or while brushing your teeth. Not doing so could add weeks or months to your treatment time.
- Changing on Time: You’ll usually need around 24 aligners total, and your dentist will typically give you 3 at a time. It’s important to switch to the next aligner when you are instructed to – no earlier, no later. This helps ensure that your teeth follow the adjustment schedule. Sometimes you might have to wear an aligner longer or revert to a previous one.
- Protecting the Aligners: Breaking or losing your aligners could set your treatment back while waiting for a replacement. Avoid complications by keeping them in your mouth or case, cleaning them regularly, and removing them only when eating or drinking anything besides water.
If you have any concerns or are unsure of the best practices, talk with your dentist. With their experience, they can make sure your plan makes the desired corrections as quickly as possible.
About Lakeshore Dental
At Lakeshore Dental, our two warm, experienced, dedicated dentists – Dr. Melvin Cruser and Dr. Amrish Patel – strive to do better every day and are always seeking to grow their dental skillsets. With the Invisalign treatment, we can help patients in Virginia Beach correct their crooked teeth and uneven bites. To schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (972) 722-9100.
