How Long Does It Take for Clear Aligners to Work?

Clear aligners are a great way to straighten misaligned teeth and achieve a more attractive smile quickly. There are certain things that patients can do to make the process go smoothly and ensure quality results, and it is helpful to know what to expect during the treatment process.

When to expect results from clear aligners

Before your clear aligner consultation, it is helpful to have an understanding of how the process works and how long it takes to see quality results. The following is an overview of the length of clear aligner treatment, including information about the steps involved in the process and tips for successful treatment and post-care.

The clear aligner process

Every patient may have a different experience when it comes to treatment with clear aligners, but there are certain steps that are to be expected. The first step for most patients is to schedule a consultation with a dental professional that offers clear aligner treatment. During the consultation, they will examine the patient’s teeth and jaw alignment through dental X-rays and an oral examination. If both parties agree to treatment, then a dental impression is taken, which is used to customize the aligners for the patient to wear. Once they arrive, the patient can officially start treatment.

How long the clear aligner process takes

The average length of time clear aligner treatment takes is around 12 months, but result times vary from patient to patient and depend on various factors. The consultation only takes a day, and the dental impression is often taken on the same day. It can then take four weeks or more for the first set of aligners to arrive from the laboratory. Once treatment begins, the dental professional may recommend changing to the new set of aligners several times each month as teeth shift. Patients typically see notable results within the first six months, and the total time for treatment typically takes around a year.

Tips to achieve fast results

Fortunately, there are certain care tips within the patient’s control that they can implement to make the process go faster. First and foremost, it is important to make it to all scheduled appointments, especially those in which the patient will be receiving a new set of clear aligners. Perhaps of equal importance, the patient should also aim to wear their aligners at least 20 to 22 hours each day, and the aligners should only be removed while eating, during the patient’s oral care routine and perhaps in other rare instances (i.e. an important presentation at work or at school). After treatment is over, then it is also crucial for the patient to follow the dental professional’s care instructions, ensuring they wear the retainer as directed each day.

Ready for clear aligners?

If you want to learn more about clear aligner treatment and start the process as soon as possible, then reach out to our team today for more information. Our friendly team can answer your questions and help you schedule a convenient time for a consultation.

Request an appointment here: https://www.leedentistryoxford.com or call Lee Family and Cosmetic Dentistry at (662) 546-1143 for an appointment in our Oxford office.

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