8 Ways to Speed Up Invisalign Treatment
Invisalign treatment varies from person to person. Sometimes it only takes 6 months, and other times it takes 2+ years.
Generally speaking, though:
Invisalign treatment takes 12 to 18 months on average.
And it’s often 50% faster than braces!
But we understand wearing clear aligners… This text opens a new tab … isn’t ideal. You’d much rather be done with your orthodontic treatment as soon as possible.
That’s why our orthodontist compiled this list of 8 ways to speed up your Invisalign treatment.
How can I make my Invisalign work fast?
Short answer: Follow the instructions.
Better answer: Read these tips below!
1. Get digital impressions
If you haven’t started treatment yet, find an orthodontist who uses an iTero 3D digital scanner… This text opens a new tab to the page on iTero… instead of manual impressions.
Why?
Digital impressions are very accurate at capturing your mouth’s details, which creates better-fitting aligners and, thus, more effective treatments.
Bonus:
Digital impressions are quick and painless. No goopy, gaggy, putty-like material is used!
Double bonus:
You’ll get to digitally preview your new smile before you start treatment.
2. Get attachments
Your Invisalign treatment may not call for these, but if it does, get them!
Invisalign’s SmartForce® attachments… This text opens a new tab to the page on attachments… speed up treatment by applying the right amount of force in the right directions.
Attachments, also known as buttons, are small tooth-colored shapes molded on your teeth. They’re the reason Invisalign can treat complex orthodontic issues without braces.
3. Wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day
This seems obvious, but you’d be surprised how often this doesn’t happen.
Invisalign is designed to work when worn for 20 to 22 hours a day. Failure to comply with this results in less effective and poor-fitting aligners, which causes your treatment to take longer.
You should only take your aligners out to eat, drink, brush, and floss. Otherwise, wear your aligners at all times!
4. Switch to new sets of aligners as instructed
Your orthodontist will tell you when to switch to your next set of aligners, typically every 1 to 2 weeks.
Make sure you switch on time to ensure your aligners fit as they’re intended and keep your treatment progressing.
Tip:
Mark your switch dates in a calendar to help you keep track. If you aren’t home on that date, make sure you bring your current and new aligners with you.
P.S. Don’t try to speed up your Invisalign by switching your trays early. It may cause pain, damage your aligners, or move your teeth incorrectly.
5. Brush your teeth before putting aligners back in
The goal here is to avoid dental problems like tooth decay (cavities) or gum disease.
Needing additional dental work during your Invisalign treatment will slow your treatment.
Tip:
Carry a “dental kit” with you at all times. This includes a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss.
6. Clean your aligners without toothpaste
Did you know toothpaste can actually damage your aligners?
Instead, do this every night:
- Brush your aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, clear liquid soap
- Rinse thoroughly after brushing
And rinse your aligners with cold water every time you remove them.
P.S. Don’t use hot water! This can warp the aligners and cause discomfort and ineffectiveness.
7. Maintain your appointments
Unlike braces, with Invisalign, you’ll self-adjust your ortho treatment at home by switching to new aligners. This means fewer checkups!
You’ll only have to visit your orthodontist every 8 to 12 weeks to review your progress and receive new sets of aligners.
So, to keep your treatment on schedule, make sure you book checkups as recommended.
A week late is another week longer in your treatment!
Tip:
Mark your calendar, so you don’t forget!
8. Use Invisalign chewies
Do chewies really help Invisalign?
Yes! Chewies are a soft, plastic device that helps your aligners fit better. By gently chewing down on them, you remove air bubbles between your teeth and the clear aligner.
AKA, when your aligner fits better, it works better (and faster!).
Typically, chewies are only needed when you switch to a new set of aligners. Otherwise, Invisalign aligners fit perfectly thanks to its patented SmartTrack® material… This text opens a new tab to the page on aligner material….
Have questions?
Contact our orthodontist and Invisalign Provider, Dr. Justin Silvestre.
He offers complimentary consultations and second opinions for patients of all ages, including virtual video consultations.
Or reach us by:
- Phone: 215-799-4602
- Email: info@indianvalleybraces.com
Orthodontic Specialists – Indian Valley is located in Souderton, PA… This text opens a new tab to our Google listing… and serves patients from surrounding communities, including Harleysville, Hatfield, Hilltown, Sellersville, Perkasie, Quakertown, and Lansdale.
