Invisalign Success Stories: How Long It Takes and What You Can Expect

Invisalign is an innovative system that uses clear aligners to move your misaligned teeth into a healthy, attractive position.

In the past, you had to choose between living with crooked, improperly spaced teeth or wearing metal braces for several years to correct the problem. In response to so many patients wishing for a less invasive solution, the Invisalign system was created. Invisalign uses virtually invisible alignment trays to gradually move your teeth into a better position. Despite the potential improvements to the look of your teeth, you may still be on the fence about selecting this option to fix your tooth spacing and alignment. You may have concerns like, “How long does Invisalign take?” or “How much does Invisalign cost?” Knowing what to expect throughout the process can help you decide if the time is right to contact Dr Jim Anderson.

Adjustment Procedure

To start the Invisalign treatment, you will need to attend a preparation appointment to allow your dentist to take photographs, x-rays, and impressions that will be used to create the treatment trays, or clear aligners. Each aligner gradually moves your teeth toward their final placement. You will wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day, only removing them to eat meals, at which point you will brush and floss your teeth before putting the aligners back in. Every seven days, you will move onto the next set of clear aligners. Every six to eight weeks, you will meet with your dentist for a checkup to assess your progress toward straight, evenly spaced teeth.

Dietary Requirements

As with traditional metal braces, you must carefully avoid foods and beverages that can be damaging to your teeth while undergoing Invisalign treatments. Sugary and acidic substances, in particular, can get trapped between the treatment trays and your teeth, causing extensive damage to your enamel and inner tooth structure. You can protect your teeth during the treatment process by committing to a healthy diet full of foods beneficial for your teeth.

How Long Does Invisalign Take?

You might be relieved to hear that for most people the treatment process spans across a single year. Within that year, you will need to progressively move through the trays on schedule to obtain the benefits of the Invisalign treatment. Your Invisalign dentist in Kansas City will regularly assess your treatment progress and make adjustments as needed. These checkup visits typically take up less than an hour of your time every six to eight weeks. The average cost of Invisalign is between $3,000 to $6000 depending on your insurance coverage and the length of your treatment.

Typical Results From Invisalign

Invisalign treatment trays move the teeth in position just as effectively as traditional metal braces. This treatment works equally well for teeth spaced too far apart and too close together. The alignment progress is gradual, so you may not notice obvious visible improvements until you are further along in the treatment process.

After the clear aligners move your teeth into a healthy position, your risk of dental decay, gum disease, and chewing difficulties will decrease. You will likely enjoy increased confidence from finally having the straight, properly aligned teeth you have desired.

Schedule an appointment with Dr Anderson today at 816-454-3336