How Long Does Invisalign Take And Treatment Timeline Explained

August 21, 2025, Avalon Dental

When it comes to straightening teeth, Invisalign has become one of the most popular choices for patients who want a discreet option. Many people visiting a dentist in Edmonton often ask the same question: “How long will Invisalign take to work?” The answer depends on your oral health, the complexity of your alignment issues, and how consistently you wear the aligners.

This guide covers the general Invisalign timeline, what affects treatment length, and what patients should expect during each stage.

Average Invisalign Timeline
On average, Invisalign treatment takes 12 to 18 months. However, some patients may see results in as little as 6 months, while more complex cases can extend beyond 24 months. Each aligner is typically worn for 20–22 hours a day and changed every 1–2 weeks.

Key factors that affect duration:

• The severity of teeth misalignment
• Patient age and oral health
• Commitment to wearing aligners daily
• Regular checkups at a dental clinic near you

Initial Consultation and Planning
Your Invisalign journey begins with a consultation. During this visit, your dentist will:

• Examine your teeth and gums
• Take digital scans or impressions
• Create a customized treatment plan

This stage usually takes 2–4 weeks before your first set of aligners is ready.

Wearing Your Aligners
Once you receive your aligners, the active phase of treatment starts. You’ll wear each set for about 1–2 weeks. Consistency is critical. If aligners are removed too often or not worn for the recommended hours, treatment time may increase.
Daily care includes:

• Wearing aligners for 20–22 hours
• Removing them only for eating and brushing
• Cleaning aligners properly to avoid stains

Regular Checkups
Patients usually visit their Edmonton dentist near you every 6–8 weeks to track progress. These visits allow for adjustments and ensure teeth are shifting correctly. Skipping appointments can delay results.

Refinement Stage
Not all patients finish treatment with their initial set of aligners. Refinements are additional trays created to fine-tune results. This stage may add a few extra months but ensures your smile looks its best.

Retention Phase
After Invisalign treatment, retainers are required to keep teeth in their new position. Retainers are usually worn full-time for the first few months, then nightly to prevent shifting.

Invisalign Treatment Timeline Breakdown
Here’s a simplified breakdown of the Invisalign process:

• Consultation & digital scans: 2–4 weeks
• First aligners and active treatment: 6–24 months
• Refinement phase: 2–6 months (if needed)
• Retainer phase: Lifelong maintenance

Tips to Stay on Track
To ensure your Invisalign timeline is not extended, follow these tips:

• Wear aligners for at least 20–22 hours a day
• Keep all scheduled appointments
• Switch to the next aligner as directed
• Maintain good oral hygiene
• Avoid losing or damaging aligners

Conclusion
The time Invisalign takes depends on your specific case, but with commitment and proper guidance, most patients achieve results within 12–18 months. If you’re considering invisalign in Edmonton, Avalon Dental in Edmonton, AB is here to help you get started with a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

FAQs About Invisalign
How many hours should I wear Invisalign daily?
You should wear your aligners for 20–22 hours a day, only removing them for meals and brushing.
Can Invisalign treatment be faster than braces?
For mild cases, Invisalign can be quicker than traditional braces, sometimes showing results in 6 months.
What happens if I don’t wear my aligners enough?
Not wearing aligners as directed can delay treatment, cause discomfort, and extend the timeline.
Do Invisalign aligners hurt?
Some discomfort is normal during the first few days of a new aligner, but it’s usually mild and temporary.
Will I need retainers after Invisalign?
Yes, retainers are essential to keep your teeth from shifting back after treatment.

Comments