How Long Does Invisalign Take: How Do They Work & How Much Does It Cost?

Anyone can get an orthodontic treatment like Invisalign if they have crooked or kinked teeth. Invisalign is such a popular orthodontic product that is much cheaper and safer than other procedures such as braces or root canals. You must be unfamiliar with the term, or how long does Invisalign take to work? Well, in that case, we have got you covered! In the blog, we will be discussing how long Invisalign takes to work (the step-by-step process) and some more details that are surely going to draw your attention. We will also be conversing on the cost, pros and cons, and effectiveness of Invisalign. If you are intrigued, scroll down to know more!

Let us start by understanding the concept of these kinds of aligners and why people prefer them over any other ones!

Table of Contents

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a clear aligner brand name that helps to get rid of crooked or funny-shaped teeth. According to our research, Invisalign is the #1 doctor-recommended clear aligner. The first clear aligner was introduced in 1998 by Align Technology. Today, we have various other options of clear aligners to choose from. For example, uLab, Spark, ClearCorrect, and tootsi.

Why Should Someone Choose Invisalign and Not Braces?

Though there are hundreds of reasons let us just go with the common ones:

1) The material of this product is more comfortable than braces as it does not have any sharp edges.

2) If you want a discreet look, go for Invisalign since it fits snugly over your teeth.

3) This kind of product is made from clear, BPA-free plastic, unlike braces which are made up of metal.

Since you have come this far in this article, I am sure that now you are quite fascinated about these aligners and you want to know more, so without wasting any more time, let us know how long Invisalign takes to work.

How Does Invisalign Work?

In simple words, Invisalign aids in moving your teeth to the desired position by gently putting pressure in the right places. You must wear these clear aligners almost all the time, except when you are consuming food or drinks. Your doctor will know when your teeth have been moved slightly, and then he is going to provide you with a new aligner to get the desired result. Normally, each aligner is worn for at least fifteen days before getting replaced with a new one.

How Long Does Invisalign Take?

The procedure of using this kind of product and how long the entire process might take:

a) Step 1- Initial Consultation With A Dentist

Consulting with your dentist is extremely necessary before going for any orthodontic treatment. Usually, if you have mild to moderate crookedness in your teeth, you can opt for Invisalign. Although the dentist will first examine your teeth, mouth, and jaws. He will also check for other orthodontic or dental needs before suggesting for Invisalign. Then the dentist will help you to plan and explain the end results. He will tell you the price of these clear aligners, the treatment plan, the timeline, the schedule of his appointments, and instructions on how to wear and take care of these types of aligners.

b) Step 2- Dentist Will Make the Aligners and Attachments

If you are thinking that your dentist will mold your Invisalign aligners on putty impressions, you are absolutely wrong! He is going to use tremendously advanced 3D technology imaging. This technology of 3D imaging will make the aligners to the exact stipulations needed to pressurize your teeth to the perfect position. Other than this technology, a few dentists also use enamel white-colored enamel attachments fixated to your teeth to aid these aligners in moving your teeth as required.

c) Step 3- Regular Visit to The Dental Office

Your dentist will instruct you on how to wear these aligners and for how long. Usually, you can wear these aligners for seven to fifteen days before discarding them and getting a new one. You must visit the dental office at least every forty to fifty-five days, that is every six to eight weeks to get your teeth, jaws, and mouth examined. You will also be getting the new set of aligners.

Another advantage of using Invisalign over braces is that you are going to have fewer visits to the dental office. Just take a bunch of aligners at your visit and listen properly to the instructions given by your dentist. Now all you must do is, swap these aligners out every few weeks which is inapplicable in the case of braces. (You had to come each time to the dental office to get your braces tightened.)

Now that you know how long Invisalign Takes to Work, let us dive into

How to Wear These Aligners in the Right Way?

After you have worn the Invisalign aligner you are going to feel snug and comfortable. If this Invisalign aligner fits tightly over your teeth, that means you have worn it the right way! The tightness aids in putting pressure on your teeth to put them in the right position. These Invisalign aligners will fit perfectly over your teeth. If you want to take off your aligners, all you have to do is wedge your fingernails right under the edges near your gums and pull them down. For the best and fastest results, try wearing these Aligners at least twenty-two hours a day. The remaining two hours are for eating and drinking and also brushing your teeth. Some other ways in which you can take care of your Invisalign aligners:

Avoid eating and drinking while wearing the Invisalign aligners. Obviously, you can drink cold water while wearing it. You can also drink bubbly or carbonated water.
Do not drink hot water while wearing the Invisalign because it causes the aligner to warp.
Food can stain your Invisalign aligners.
Drinks such as tea and coffee will also stain your aligners.

I am sure you do not want your aligner to look visible, and that is why you went for a clear and translucent one like ‘Invisalign.’ So, all you have to do is take off your aligners before eating or drinking and then brush your teeth before putting them on again to avoid staining.

How to Clean Your Invisalign Aligners?

Wash these aligners with lukewarm water. Then using a toothbrush and a little toothpaste, gently scrub the aligners. Now, rinse it properly before putting it back inside your mouth.

NOTE: Always remember to brush your teeth finely. Be extra sure to get off the bits of food from your teeth otherwise, it will get trapped inside your Invisalign and may cause stain or infection.

What is the Cost of Invisalign?

Well, the scenario of pricing of Invisalign is quite diverse. This is because the cost of this product depends on various factors and on the extent of work your teeth require. Usually, the cost is the same as for braces but can vary and sometimes be more expensive than braces too. It costs around $3,500 to $7,500. You can also get the cheapest alignments for a price of around $2,000. For expensive treatments, Invisalign can cost you a total of $9,000. I am sure you have your dental insurance and if you have it, good news for you! Your dental insurance may cover a portion of the cost of Invisalign.

Pros of Using Invisalign

Invisalign is almost invisible (hence the name) so it does not become obvious when you smile. Since it is discreet, it makes you feel less self-conscious.
They are easy to remove when eating or cleaning your teeth.
Usually do not take any longer to complete treatment than normal braces, and may even be faster.
Acquiring these will require fewer visits to the dentist’s office, unlike braces.
These move teeth more gradually than traditional braces, which may lead to less discomfort.

Cons of Using These Aligners

Invisalign may be more expensive than braces.
They can be lost or broken, resulting in more money and time spent on treatment.
Some of them may cause mouth discomfort and achiness.

Conclusive Insights

If you follow the instructions given by your dentist regularly, it will just take twelve to eighteen months to get perfectly straightened teeth. Invisalign is used for various other purposes like crowding or spacing issues. So, consult with your dentist or orthodontist today to know more about this magical product. I hope you liked our blog regarding Invisalign and how long Invisalign takes to work.