How Long Do Clear Aligners Take to Work?

Honestly, there are loads of factors that could affect the treatment length of your clear aligners, and the journey is different for everyone. So, we hate to disappoint, but when it comes to the length of your aligner treatment, we can't give you a definitive answer.

However, we can discuss factors that influence the length of your treatment to prepare you for what may come.

ORTHODONTIC HISTORY

If you've had orthodontic work in the past, it can influence how long your aligner treatment takes. For example, teeth that have previously been manipulated may be a little more stubborn to move again than teeth in their natural location.

If you’ve previously worn traditional braces, your teeth may respond differently than someone starting their journey with aligners.

In some cases, patients who also need to replace missing teeth or address past extractions may require more planning before starting aligners.

GAPS IN YOUR TEETH

A gap between your teeth may give you some unique style points, however if you're looking to straighten your teeth, it can also distinctly lengthen the time you'll need to spend with your aligner treatment.

The more spaces in your teeth, the more complicated your smile becomes and the longer it may take to achieve optimal alignment. Your aligners might need more time to gradually shift your smile into place.

Fixing gaps can dramatically improve your natural-looking smile, especially when combined with other treatments like teeth whitening or bonding.

Similar to the tooth gap situation, another determining factor in your journey to joining the straight teeth club is:

TEETH CROWDING

When it comes to music festivals, the bigger the crowd, the bigger the success. Unfortunately, we cannot apply the same logic to your teeth. The more crowded your teeth are, the harder it is to achieve optimal alignment in a timely manner.

Crowded or even cracked teeth can also affect your bite and alignment, which is why clear aligners are often paired with other cosmetic dentistry procedures for best results.

Severely crowded teeth can extend your treatment time, especially if realignment involves complex movements.

AGE & ORAL HEALTH

As adults, we often reflect on our youth as a time when we had a bottomless pit of energy, were flexible enough to sit cross-legged comfortably and had mobility that didn't result in several knees, back, and neck cracks every time we left a seated position. Our point is that younger patients tend to be more malleable, and often their teeth are easily manipulated, making their aligner treatment shorter than older patients with stubborn teeth and gums.

So if you're thinking of getting your teeth aligned, it's best to start sooner rather than later, especially since healthier teeth and gums tend to respond better to the forces of treatment and good oral care can also lower your risk of gum disease, which may delay orthodontic movement.

YOUR INDIVIDUAL ALIGNER TREATMENT

One size does not fit all when it comes to the process of straightening teeth. Some treatments are based on more frequent changes, and others require extended periods between aligner changes.

Aligners are also shaped to match your bite and facial features, ensuring your transformation feels natural and balanced.

Ultimately, the length of time you're in aligners is discussed with your orthodontist and depends on the factors mentioned above, along with the following:

YOUR LISTENING SKILLS

We get it; as an adult, you're at the peak of your social life, trying to progress in your career and enjoy the freedom of living by your own rules. Taking on board the plethora of information and instructions concerning your aligner treatment can become challenging, and the 'I know better' attitude can be hard to ignore.

"Wear your aligners for 20-22 hours per day" may be interpreted as, "I'll wear my aligners most of the time but take them out for catch ups with friends or family and work meetings.”

Thus, resulting in the possibility of a longer journey or an extended average treatment time overall. So, as we say to our children, put your listening ears on and follow instructions.

In a nutshell, when it comes to the length of your aligner treatment, you won't be able to determine an exact answer as too many variables affect its duration. The best way to ensure your aligner treatment gets you that insta-worthy smile sooner rather than later is to make a few small sacrifices and try not to take it personally when someone a decade younger than you makes it out of the orthodontist's chair earlier. Compliance is key if you want to see results in just a few weeks, but most should expect treatment to take months.

Whether your goal is a perfect smile or simply a brighter smile, every clear aligner plan is customised to help you achieve the look you want, step by step.

To get started, purchase your impression kit or book your initial appointment at one of our bitesoft pro clinics. If you are feeling a bit confused we are here to help you with our free 15 minute e-consultation.