This question is most frequently asked by patients when they want to know how long invisible orthodontic treatment lasts. This type of treatment depends on different conditions and variables that affect the prediction of the time required for invisible orthodontic treatment. A portion of the treatment progress depends on the patient, and if instructions are followed carefully, faster treatment can be achieved. The duration of using the appliance plays the most decisive role in invisible orthodontic treatment. Additional factors that contribute to shortening the treatment period are described as follows. By observing these instructions, you are more likely to obtain the intended results within the timeframe recommended by your orthodontist.
Factors affecting the duration of invisible orthodontic treatment
The items listed below are the most important factors that affect the duration of invisible orthodontic treatment:
- Type of malocclusion
- Severity of malocclusion
- Patient’s commitment to the prescribed plan
- Follow-up appointments
- Patient age group
- Accuracy of the treatment designed by the orthodontist
Effect of the type of malocclusion on invisible orthodontic treatment
The type of the malocclusion and its severity are the first and most effective factors in determining the length of treatment using invisible aligners or other orthodontic methods. When malocclusion is not severe, it can be treated within a period of at least 9 months to at most 12 months. For more complex and severe dental or jaw malocclusion, the treatment duration may extend to nearly 18 months.
Relation between age and the duration of invisible orthodontic treatment
The duration of treatment with invisible orthodontics is also somewhat dependent on the age of the person. In general, bones form more easily and are more flexible at a young age. For this reason, orthodontics in pediatrics and young people is shorter if the treatment plan is followed than in adults. However, evidence shows that adults are more likely to adhere to the treatment plan using invisible orthodontics. This shows that children need parental support and encouragement to take advantage of their age.
Patient commitment to the treatment plan
Unlike fixed orthodontics, the patient is responsible for carrying out the treatment plan in invisible orthodontic treatment. As a result, the duration of this treatment relies heavily on the patient’s adherence to the treatment plan. Any type of neglect will extend the process and may make it more complicated. In general, patients should avoid removing the aligner except when necessary and only as ordered by the orthodontist. The appliance must be used for at least 20 to 22 hours per day.
Specialized clinic and skilled orthodontist for invisible orthodontics
Developing an effective treatment plan for invisible orthodontics involves specific complications. High-precision scanning to capture the condition of the teeth and jaws, predicting the teeth direction and movement throughout treatment, and producing a suitable set of aligner trays represent only part of this complex process. Therefore, choosing a clinic equipped with advanced tools, and knowledgeable and experienced staff has a considerable influence on total treatment duration. Any disruption in the stages mentioned may increase overall duration.
Duration of invisible orthodontic treatment based on the type of malocclusion
Considering the points above, the length of invisible orthodontic treatment based on the type of malocclusion is generally as follows:
- Mild malocclusions: an average of 9 months
- Moderate malocclusions: 9 to 18 months
- Complex or severe malocclusions: 18 to 24 months
Invisible orthodontics are most commonly used for mild to moderate malocclusions. Therefore, the treatment often takes about one year. As noted earlier, the patient’s cooperation and perseverance play a major role in the final duration. Therefore, this appliance is often recommended to adults as they cooperation is greater than children, began with purposeful and determined decision-making.
Click here to learn more about how to care for invisible braces.
Final Note
Determining a precise treatment timeline is impossible for every patient; however, certain factors affect the duration. After the initial visit, a more accurate estimate can be provided. The most important factor is the severity of the dental and jaw malocclusion. After that, the patient’s cooperation and commitment to treatment, as well as age, play important roles.
According to the above-mentioned cases, invisible orthodontic treatment may last at least 9 months or at most 24 months, assuming the patient follows the treatment and remains patient throughout the process.
Therefore, if you need orthodontics, postponing orthodontic care is not advisable. The invisible orthodontic treatment becomes longer and more expensive as malocclusions progress and age increases.
