How quickly do teeth move with Invisalign?

If you’re considering Invisalign as an option to straighten your teeth, fix your bite, or improve your overall smile, chances are you have some questions. One of the most common questions patients ask is: How quickly do teeth move with Invisalign? While the answer to this question varies from patient to patient, here are some general guidelines to deepen your understanding of the treatment process:

Each Case Is Unique

Before proceeding with Invisalign treatment, you should know that each person has a unique situation that will impact treatment time. How fast you complete treatment depends on a variety of factors, such as:

  • How many hours you wear your trays.
  • The complexity of your case.
  • The state of your gums, jawbone, and mouth.
  • Genetics.

Most patients begin to see small results within the first month or two of treatment. Remember that some cases may take six months and others two years. This means that some people will experience more noticeable changes than others in the initial treatment stages.

How does Invisalign work?

The Invisalign treatment plan involves a series of clear aligner trays that you change regularly. Most patients change their trays weekly, but your orthodontist will instruct you on how often you should change yours. Some patients will need to use attachments, rubber bands, or other tools to help speed up treatment and better stabilize their bites.

The Pros of Invisalign

Many people opt for Invisalign because the trays are clear, making them barely noticeable to others. You remove the trays to eat and drink liquids other than water, meaning you don’t have to deal with the eating restrictions of traditional braces. Plus, the aligners fit comfortably around your teeth, reducing the risks posed by exposed wires. It’s also easy to clean the trays and maintain good oral hygiene with Invisalign.

How fast do teeth move?

Each tray is designed to gradually shift your teeth into the desired position, moving your teeth by about 1/10 mm. Invisalign works by shifting your teeth in different directions and even rotating them, exerting exactly the right amount of pressure in the right places. How much movement is needed to reach your end goal will affect how long you need to wear trays for.

3D Modeling & Other Technology

With modern techniques in 3D modeling, your dentist or orthodontist can show you your projected outcome through a time-lapse model. This helps ensure your treatment plan stays on track, while also showcasing the progress you’ve made on your Invisalign journey. Invisalign also has a mobile application where you can follow along on your progress, capture images of your teeth, and more. In today’s world, the convenience of modern technology allows you to stay motivated on your path to a better smile.

Ready to begin your Invisalign journey?

For over 40 years, Dr. Gruelle and Dr. Dempsey of Gruelle Dempsey Orthodontics have shared a passion for dentistry, helping patients of all ages achieve their dream smiles. As one of the top 5 Invisalign providers worldwide, our seven office locations are always waiting to welcome you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you reach your smile goals.