If you are thinking about getting Invisalign, one of the first questions you may have is, How long will it take to see results? Each smile is different, and sometimes treatment timelines can vary. However, learning about the general Invisalign process can help explain what you can expect. This guide from your dentist in NE Calgary will help you learn more about the average duration, what can affect your results, and how to stay on track.
What is Invisalign Treatment?
Invisalign is a clear aligner system that moves your teeth more gradually into better alignment. Invisalign trays are custom-fit to your smile and are placed over your teeth. Each set of trays is worn for several weeks as your teeth shift.
Some of the benefits of using Invisalign:
- Appearance: Almost invisible when worn.
- Comfort: Smooth plastic aligners instead of sharp brackets.
- Convenience: They are removable for eating, brushing, and flossing.
Because Invisalign is a series of aligners, how long your entire Invisalign treatment time takes depends on how many trays you need and how much you wear them.
How Long Does Invisalign Take on Average?
Invisalign, on average, is around 12-18 months; some people gain results in a few weeks, and some complicated cases could be longer.
To understand your treatment time, you need to consider several factors:
- Degree of misalignment: If you have really small gaps or slight crowding, your aligners could be under a year; complicated cases could be closer to 18-24 months.
- Wearing Aligners as Directed: Aligners must be worn for 20-22 hours a day, so missing time can result in prolonged treatment time.
- Age: Teenagers tend to achieve results a bit faster since their teeth are still developing, while adults may need longer adjustments.
- Lifestyle Habits: As long as you keep taking your aligners out for meals and putting them back in right afterwards, you are still good to go on your treatment!
How Many Months Does Invisalign Take?
Most patients note a change in 2–3 months after putting on their aligner. Early on in the process, patients will start to notice their teeth shift, and the aligners will also become looser (you will notice these changes in your smile).
Here is the normal timeline of what to expect for progress with Invisalign:
| Timeline | What You May Expect |
| First 2–3 weeks | Minor movement may start; aligners may feel tight. |
| 2–3 months | Visible improvements in alignment. |
| 6 months | Midway through the progress of your journey, noticeable changes in your smile. |
| 12 months | Many patients complete treatment around this time. |
| 18–24 months | More complex cases may need this extended period. |
What Can Affect the Invisalign Timeline?
The length of your treatment depends on more than your starting point. Several factors may facilitate or hinder progress:
- Consistency: Wearing your aligners less than 20 hours a day can prolong your timeline, as we know that one of the reasons aligners are as effective as fixed appliances is that they can exploit patient compliance when the patient wears the aligners 20+ hours a day.
- Regular follow-ups with your dental clinic near you allow for regular checks on your progress and keep you on track for a good treatment outcome.
- Oral health: Healthy gums and teeth allow for easier movement of teeth, thus allowing your treatment to progress.
- Refinements: At the end, we may find that you need additional aligners to make a few last adjustments.
Is Invisalign Faster Than Braces?
In many situations involving mild to moderate malocclusion, the answer is yes, because aligners are designed to efficiently target specific tooth movements; therefore, results will not take as long. However, for some complex situations like severe crowding or bite problems, the treatment length will then take the same length of time or even longer than braces. If you are considering Invisalign treatment in NE Calgary, a consultation will give you a better sense of how ideal Invisalign is for your smile.
Finding a Reliable Invisalign Provider?
If you are looking for Invisalign near you, it’s best to have a consultation to learn about your individual timeline. A dentist will assess your teeth as well as take detailed digital scans and develop a treatment plan that outlines how your smile will progress from the beginning until the end.
Start Your Invisalign Journey at Temple Square Dental
Having a straighter smile doesn’t have to feel out of reach. Whether your treatment is 6 months or about 18 months, Invisalign gives you a clear, comfortable way to produce results with your teeth.
At Temple Square Dental, we help patients in NE Calgary start their Invisalign journey with confidence. Our team will propose how to take you through each step, from the first consultation until you receive the last set of aligners. If you are seeking Invisalign in your community, now is a great time to take the next step.
Are you ready to discover how Invisalign can improve your smile? Call to make your appointment today with Temple Square Dental and start the journey to a healthier, straighter smile.