Whether you have crooked teeth, a prominent gap or bite issues, braces are a well-known way to fix dental problems. However, traditional braces involve a significant time commitment and not many people are keen to have metal or ceramic brackets attached to their teeth for a prolonged period of time because of the social awkwardness attached to it, particularly as an adult.

This is where clear braces, like Invisalign, come in. A more visually appealing alternative to metal braces, Invisalign gets its name for being a nearly invisible and effective solution to address overcrowded, misaligned and crooked teeth. As clear aligners, Invisalign works by gradually moving your teeth as you wear them every day.

Though it’s not suitable for every situation, Invisalign has rapidly become popular with children, teenagers and adults alike as an alternative means of straightening and correcting teeth. Unlike traditional braces that use a wire to straighten and correct teeth, Invisalign uses a series of plastic trays (also known as “aligners”) to move the teeth into better alignment.

As experts in cosmetic dental procedures, we’re experienced at providing advice for Invisalign in Sydney. To provide you with greater insight, we’ve put together a few factors that may determine the length of your Invisalign treatment.

The complexity of your treatment

The length of your Invisalign treatment depends on both the state of your teeth and the complexity of movements that need to be made. After having an initial consultation with one of our doctors, you will be told the expected length of your treatment before your customised Invisalign journey begins. For a crooked tooth or to close a gap, treatment can be as short as six months. However, Invisalign treatments typically take between 12 and 18 months to straighten your teeth.

For more complex cases such as crowded teeth and under or overbites, it could take 24 months or longer to correct your teeth. There is also the possibility that the state of your teeth may be too severe for clear braces; in these instances, your orthodontist may recommend another form of treatment instead. In this case, your orthodontist may recommend orthodontic surgery or alternative orthodontic treatment.

Speeding up the process

Although every treatment is as unique as the individual, there are three mains ways to help your treatment progress faster:

• Wear your Invisalign trays for at least 22 hours every day — Following our instructions carefully will help ensure your treatment is as short as possible.
• Take proper care of your aligners — By brushing out any food particles and plaque, giving them a weekly deep clean and promptly replacing them if they crack, you will prevent any unexpected damage to your teeth that could slow down your treatment.
• Keep on top of your appointments — Remember to attend your dental appointments to ensure that your Invisalign treatment is progressing properly. Our dentists will also gain clearer insights into whether adjustments need to be made along the way, too. Although your latest pair of aligners may feel tight, they are an essential part of making those important movements.

Your personalised Invisalign treatment plan

If you are ready to smile bigger and brighter than you ever have before, Invisalign may be a solution to your dental issues. Book a consultation online today with Dr Lazaris — an Invisalign Sydney Platinum provider and highly respected cosmetic dentist. From your initial consultation to 3D scans, x-rays, ongoing check-ups and the final completion of your treatment, Dr Lazaris provides individualised care and personalised dental solutions. These solutions include aesthetic and general dentistry, such as clear braces in Sydney.

For more information about Invisalign or other orthodontic treatment, contact us online via our enquiry form. We have a long list of satisfied clients — and we’re ready to help you take your smile up a notch or two.