Many people choose Invisalign clear aligners because they are removable, which means they don't have to be worn all of the time. In this blog, our orthodontists at SmileTown Orthodontics Braces & Invisalign explain the length of time your aligners have to be worn for and how it impacts your treatment.
The Invisalign system is made up of a series of custom-made transparent aligners that work to straighten your teeth. Since they are transparent people will most likely have a hard time seeing them while you are wearing them. You are also able to remove them to eat and drink all the delicious things you love, as well as to brush your teeth as normal.
The Length of Your Treatment
Your orthodontist will be able to determine the length of your Invisalign treatment based on the misalignment of your teeth. So the only way you will learn the specific duration of your treatment is to book an appointment with your orthodontist.
Even though you can remove your aligners, do not abuse the privilege. Having your aligners out for too long will have negative consequences on the progress of your treatment. The less time you have your aligners in for, the longer your Invisalign treatment will be.
Your treatment can't progress unless you wear your aligners, so it's imperative that you follow the instructions your orthodontist gives to you exactly and attend regular checkups.
Wear Time a Day
You have to wear your Invisalign clear aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day. Regardless of your treatment's length, you will get your best possible results by keeping them in your mouth as long as possible every day.
You can take your aligners out to eat, drink, brush, and floss, but don't overdo it, and remember to wear them for at least 20 hours every day.
Wear Time Per Aligner
You will get a set of aligners - which could come with as few as 12 or as many as 48. Most of the time, patients will wear each aligner for approximately two weeks. The idea is that you'll wear each aligner until your teeth shift to the next stage of treatment.
If your treatment has progressed within the two-week time frame, you will be able to start wearing the next aligner in your set. If not, you might have to wear the current one a little longer.