How Long Do I Have to Wear Invisalign?

If you are considering straightening your teeth, there is a probability you have heard about Invisalign. One of the most common questions we hear is, “how long do I need to wear Invisalign trays.” Invisalign in Studio City is a popular and effective orthodontic solution for teeth imperfections.

Invisalign works by adjusting the teeth into the desired position using a set of custom-fit aligner trays. You will typically need to change your aligners during the treatment until the dental problem is entirely fixed.

Do I Have to Wear Invisalign Daily?

Most people prefer Invisalign because aligners are removable. However, that advantage can also be a disadvantage for patients who fail to wear the aligners for the required time per day.

Generally, patients should wear aligners for 20-22 hours daily. That means having them on almost all day, even when you sleep. You can remove them whenever you want to floss, brush or eat. However, putting them back as soon as you are done is advisable.

If you fail to wear your Invisalign for 20 hours daily, your teeth won’t get the force required for progress. They may even start moving back to their initial position, potentially jeopardizing your efforts to achieve the desired results.

When Will I Start Seeing Results?

Since Invisalign treatment entails gradually shifting your teeth into the desired position, it may take a while to start noticing results. Typically, a patient receives a new set of aligners every two weeks. Each set is designed to move the teeth closer to the desired position.

Although the Invisalign treatment can take longer, most patients start seeing results in as little as two weeks. While some patients may have to wait three months before their smile enhances, others may need to wait at least five months to notice changes.

If you have followed your dentist’s instructions for more than five months and haven’t seen results, you should get in touch with your orthodontist immediately. The dentist will help determine whether the treatment is on track to deliver the long-term results you desire.