Timeline for Clear Aligners: How Long Will Treatment Take?

Clear aligner treatment can be an ideal alternative for patients who struggle with self-confidence and want to avoid wearing bulky metal brackets and wires. Offering a more subtle and flexible method of care, they are designed to achieve the same beautiful results as metal braces, but how long does it take to see improvement? Do these less noticeable trays produce straighter smiles quicker than other orthodontic solutions? Keep reading to find out.

Which Factors Determine the Timeline for Clear Aligner Treatment?

The timeline for clear aligner treatment is different for each person. No two cases are the same, which means there are various factors your orthodontist must consider before explaining how long you can expect to wear your trays.

Some of these include:

• Your Age: Clear aligners are suitable for both teenagers and adults; however, the amount of time wearing these trays will differ. Younger patients can expect faster results (on average) because their oral and facial structures are still developing, so nothing is “set in stone” just yet. Adults, however, may require longer treatment times because everything (i.e., teeth, jawbones, etc.) is more firmly set in place, making it slightly more challenging to move pearly whites into their proper place.
• Compliance with Treatment: It is necessary to wear clear aligners for 20-22 hours a day. Failing to do so can lead to delays in treatment. If you choose not to wear your trays for the designated amount of time every day, you may find yourself wearing them much longer than you originally intended. Your teeth need continuous, gentle pressure to move, which means wearing your aligners as instructed.
• Complexity of Treatment: Clear aligners can adequately treat minor cases of overcrowding, gaps, and bite misalignment (i.e., overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite); however, based on the complexity of your problem, you may be required to wear your aligners longer than someone else. This will be determined by your orthodontist during your initial consultation.

What is the Average Timeframe for Clear Aligners?

On average, patients who wear clear aligners may see results in 12-18 months. Some individuals, specifically those who have minor crowding, might notice a significant difference in only six months. It is impossible to assume that this will be your situation, as your smile is unique; however, after a complete examination from your orthodontist, you’ll discover just how long you will need to wear your aligners.

One thing is obvious, though. Clear aligners do tend to produce faster results than traditional metal braces, which can take anywhere from two to three years. This reality, along with their discreet appearance, is what continues to pull patients like yourself toward the idea of achieving a straighter smile using a more subtle approach.

About the Practice
Chicago Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics consists of both pediatric dentists and orthodontists who care about bringing world-class dental care to patients living in the South Loop area and beyond. Offering years of proven experience, we provide effective solutions for those who need help to correct overcrowding, gaps, and bite misalignment. If you are considering clear aligners but want to know more about the process, contact us at (312) 766-0995.