If you’re considering Invisalign, you’re probably wondering, “How long does Invisalign take?” or “How soon will I see results?”
You first need to be aware that Invisalign is a brand and there are many other brands of clear aligners, such as Spark, Angel aligners and others. They all have small differences, but they have a lot in common; what makes them effective is not the material, but the orthodontist who is an extra-trained dentist, and knows all the details involved to make your teeth move correctly, and give you the smile that you’ve been dreaming for.
In this blog, we will use the word Invisalign to refer to clear aligners, Spark, and other brands of clear aligners, because Invisalign is more known among the non-dental profession population.
Going back to the question: “How long does Invisalign take?” or “How soon will I see results?”
The truth is, Invisalign (may) work faster than traditional braces in many cases, but your treatment time depends on the complexity of your dental issues, how consistently you wear your aligners, and the specific goals of your treatment.
The Invisalign process involves a series of steps designed to gradually move your teeth into the desired position.
In this guide, we’ll break down how long Invisalign takes to work, how it corrects issues like overbites and gaps, and what to expect at every stage of treatment.
How Long Does Invisalign Take?
On average, Invisalign treatment takes between 6 to 18 months, depending on the severity of your misalignment. For patients with crowded teeth, the treatment duration can vary significantly based on the severity of the crowding.
Average Invisalign Treatment Time Based on Case Severity:
● Mild cases: 6-9 months
● Moderate cases: 12-18 months
● Severe cases: 18-24+ months
The treatment duration for misaligned teeth can vary depending on whether the misalignment is mild, moderate, or severe.
Unlike braces, which require frequent in-office adjustments, Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners that gradually shift your teeth into place. You’ll switch to a new set of aligners every 1-2 weeks, depending on your treatment plan.
At Enjoy Orthodontics, Dr. Felipe Porto creates customized clear aligner treatment plans to help patients achieve their desired smile in the shortest time possible.
How Long Does It Take for Invisalign to Work?
Most Invisalign patients start noticing changes within a few weeks, but it can take a few months to see significant results.
The aligner trays are crucial in gradually moving your teeth; consistent use is key to seeing results.
When You’ll Start Seeing Results:
● First 2-3 weeks: Minor movements begin, but changes may not be obvious yet.
● 1-3 months: Visible improvement in tooth alignment.
● 6+ months: Noticeable progress in bite correction and overall alignment.
● Final months: Teeth fine-tuned for optimal results.
By the end of the treatment, you can expect to have straighter teeth and a more aligned smile.
The more consistently you wear your aligners (at least 22 hours per day), the faster you’ll see results. Skipping wear time can extend your treatment timeline.
How Long Does Invisalign Take to Fix an Overbite?
If you have an overbite, Invisalign can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to correct it, depending on how severe it is.
Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment for correcting overbites and other alignment issues.
Invisalign Overbite Correction Timeline:
● Mild overbite: 6-12 months
● Moderate overbite: 12-18 months
● Severe overbite: 18-24+ months (may require elastics for extra correction)
The Invisalign treatment process for overbites involves wearing a series of aligners that gradually shift your teeth into the correct position.
Invisalign works best for mild to moderate overbites. For severe cases, your orthodontist may recommend additional appliances, such as rubber bands or attachments, to help shift the jaw properly.
At Enjoy Orthodontics, Dr. Porto evaluates each patient’s bite and determines the fastest, most effective treatment plan for their specific needs.
How Long Does It Take to Get Used to Invisalign?
Adjusting to Invisalign is usually quick and easy, but it can take a few days to a couple of weeks to fully get used to wearing your aligners.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial during the adjustment period to prevent any dental issues.
What to Expect When Adjusting to Invisalign:
● Days 1-3: Aligners may feel tight or slightly uncomfortable as your teeth start moving.
● First week: Some difficulty speaking (a slight lisp) as your tongue adjusts.
● Week 2: You’ll feel much more comfortable wearing and removing your aligners.
● 1 month: Wearing aligners will feel like second nature.
The Invisalign tray should be worn consistently to ensure a smooth adjustment period.
Drinking plenty of water and sticking to soft foods during the first few days can help make the adjustment period easier.
How Long Does It Take for Invisalign to Come In?
After your initial consultation, it typically takes 2 to 4 weeks for your custom Invisalign aligners to be manufactured and arrive at your orthodontist’s office.
It’s important to check with your dental insurance provider to see if they cover Invisalign treatment, as this can affect your overall timeline and cost.
Invisalign Ordering Timeline:
- Consultation & digital scans: The orthodontist takes 3D images of your teeth and digital scans of your teeth during your Invisalign consultation to create a custom treatment plan.
- Custom treatment plan designed: Your aligners are created based on your personalized plan.
- Aligners are manufactured: Invisalign labs produce your set of custom aligners.
- Aligners arrive at the office: Your orthodontist gives you your first set and explains how to wear them.
At Enjoy Orthodontics, we work to ensure your aligners arrive as quickly as possible so you can begin your transformation without unnecessary delays.
How Long Does It Take for Invisalign to Close a Gap?
Invisalign can be a great solution if you have gaps between your teeth. Aligner trays are designed to apply consistent pressure to close gaps between teeth effectively. The treatment time depends on the size of the gap and the number of gaps that need to be closed.
Gap Closure Timeline with Invisalign:
● Small gaps (1-2mm): 3-6 months
● Moderate gaps (2-4mm): 6-12 months
● Larger gaps (4mm+): 12-18 months
The Invisalign treatment process for closing gaps involves wearing a series of aligners that gradually move your teeth closer together.
For very large gaps, your orthodontist may recommend additional attachments or refinements to help achieve the best results.
How Long Does It Take to Get Invisalign Put On?
Unlike braces, which take 1-2 hours to apply, getting Invisalign is a quick and easy process.
The Invisalign tray is custom-made to fit your teeth and should be worn consistently for the best results.
What Happens at Your First Invisalign Appointment:
- Receive your aligners – Your orthodontist will give you your first set of trays. Your Invisalign consultation will include a detailed explanation of how to wear and care for your aligners.
- Attachment placement (if needed) – Small, tooth-colored bumps may be added to help with movement.
- Learn how to insert & remove aligners – Your orthodontist will show you the best techniques.
- Review care instructions – Proper cleaning and maintenance will be explained.
This entire process usually takes 30-60 minutes, and you’ll leave the office with your first set of aligners ready to start your smile transformation!
Final Thoughts: How Long Does Invisalign Take?
The length of your Invisalign treatment varies based on your unique case, how consistently you wear your aligners, and what corrections are needed. Overall, Invisalign is a fast, effective, and convenient way to straighten teeth.
Key Takeaways:
● Invisalign treatment typically takes 6-18 months, depending on complexity.
● You may start noticing results within a few weeks.
● Overbites can take 6-24 months to correct, depending on severity.
● It takes about 1-2 weeks to get used to wearing Invisalign aligners.
● Invisalign trays usually arrive within 2-4 weeks after your consultation.
● Closing small gaps with Invisalign may take as little as 3-6 months.
● Getting Invisalign put on takes less than an hour.
Don’t forget to check with your dental insurance provider to see if they cover Invisalign treatment.
At Enjoy Orthodontics, Dr. Felipe Porto and his team create personalized Invisalign treatment plans to help patients achieve their best smile in the shortest time possible.
Ready to start your Invisalign journey? Schedule a consultation today!
