How long Does Invisalign Take?

Invisalign treatment typically lasts between 12 and 18 months, though some cases may be shorter or longer depending on your individual needs. Your orthodontist will provide a personalised estimate based on your specific treatment plan.
Invisalign treatment typically lasts between 12 and 18 months, though some cases may be shorter or longer depending on your individual needs. Your orthodontist will provide a personalised estimate based on your specific treatment plan.
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Published on
June 23, 2025

The length of time you'll need to wear Invisalign depends on the complexity of your dental concerns and your personalised treatment plan. On average, treatment lasts between 12 to 18 months, although some cases may be shorter or longer. Your Invisalign provider will give you a more accurate timeline based on your specific needs.

At Edgbaston Smile Clinic, our experienced team is here to help you achieve the best possible results with Invisalign. Get in touch today to start your journey to a straighter, more confident smile!

How Long Must I Wear Invisalign for Per Day?

To get the best results from your Invisalign treatment, it’s important to wear your aligners for at least 22 hours each day.

To get the best results from your Invisalign treatment, it’s important to wear your aligners for at least 22 hours each day. While your aligners need to be in your mouth most of the time, you’ll need to remove them when eating, drinking anything other than water, and when brushing your teeth or cleaning the aligners. This means you won’t be wearing them every single minute, but you should aim to keep them out for no more than two hours daily.

Limiting the time your aligners are out is crucial because wearing them less than recommended can slow down your treatment progress and extend the overall duration of your Invisalign journey. Staying consistent and committed to wearing your aligners as instructed will help ensure your teeth move efficiently and your smile transformation stays on track. If you have any questions or need support managing your wear time, our team at Edgbaston Smile Clinic is here to help you every step of the way.

Is Invisalign Quicker than Braces?

At Edgbaston Smile Clinic, we understand that everyone’s smile journey is unique, and different braces treatments work in various ways to straighten teeth. Some treatments, however, can offer faster results than others. Invisalign is often considered one of the quickest orthodontic options, especially for mild to moderate cases. Typically, Invisalign treatment involves around 20 to 30 sets of custom-made aligners worn over 6 to 8 months to gradually shift your teeth into place.

Unlike traditional fixed braces—such as metal or lingual braces—that require monthly visits for adjustments and re-wiring, Invisalign allows you to progress through your treatment with fewer in-office appointments. The aligners themselves keep your teeth aligned as you switch to the next set, making it a more convenient option for many patients with busy schedules.

It’s important to remember that treatment duration and method can vary greatly depending on your specific dental needs. While Invisalign is often the fastest choice for suitable cases, our experienced orthodontists at Edgbaston Smile Clinic will carefully assess your smile to recommend the most effective treatment—whether that’s Invisalign or traditional braces—to ensure the best long-term results for you.

What Factors Influence the Length of Invisalign Treatment?

At Edgbaston Smile Clinic, we know that every smile is as unique as a fingerprint, so the exact length of time you’ll need to wear braces can vary widely. For some patients, treatment may be completed in as little as six months, while for others, it could take up to 18 months or more.

Several key factors influence how long your treatment will take:

Teeth Crowding
Mild crowding can often be corrected in around six months, especially if you have a smaller jaw or larger teeth. However, more severe crowding requires moving teeth greater distances, which naturally extends treatment time. In cases of extreme overcrowding, we may recommend alternative treatments before starting Invisalign.

Gaps Between Teeth
Small gaps can be closed relatively quickly, but larger spaces caused by tissue overgrowth or tooth size discrepancies may take longer—sometimes over a year. In some cases, when teeth are small and the jaw is large, additional treatments like dental bonding or veneers might be recommended alongside braces to achieve the best results.

Patient’s Age
Teens often see faster results since their teeth and jaws are still growing, allowing teeth to move more easily. Adults may take longer, but treatment can still be very effective. Interestingly, treatment speed can also depend on individual factors beyond age, such as how well you follow your orthodontist’s instructions.

Compliance
Wearing your aligners as prescribed is crucial for timely results. Invisalign trays should be worn for at least 22 hours a day—only removing them to eat, brush, and clean. Skipping wear time can cause your teeth to shift back, delaying your progress and potentially extending your treatment.

Invisalign is a versatile treatment that can address issues like overbite, underbite, crossbite, and gaps, often requiring fewer visits than traditional braces—perfect for busy lifestyles.

Ready to start your journey to a straighter smile? Book an Invisalign appointment with Edgbaston Smile Clinic today!

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign treatment uses a series of custom-made aligners that gently shift your teeth into place. You wear each set for about two weeks before moving on to the next one in the series.

How Long Do You Wear Invisalign To Close Gaps?

Small gaps can sometimes be corrected in as little as six weeks. However, without proper retention, these gaps often reappear. That’s why wearing a retainer after your Invisalign treatment is essential to keep your teeth properly aligned.

How Long Do You Wear Invisalign for Crowded Teeth?

Mild cases of crowded teeth can often be corrected in about six months, but for more severe crowding, your orthodontist might recommend removing some teeth to create enough space.

What About Straightening Adult Teeth?

Invisalign is equally effective for both adults and teenagers. The duration of your treatment will depend on the complexity of your orthodontic needs.

How Do I Clean My Invisalign Aligners?

You can clean your aligners by gently brushing them with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or using special cleaning crystals designed for Invisalign. It’s also important to maintain good oral hygiene by regularly cleaning your teeth and gums throughout your treatment.

Edgbaston Smile
Edgbaston Smile Clinic in Birmingham offers a wide range of cosmetic and restorative dental treatments to refresh, restore and rejuvenate your smile. Our aim is to promote oral health and achieve great aesthetic and functional results.

Our ethos is to place our clients’ needs at the centre of everything that we do and provide the highest quality of service.
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