What is Invisalign?
You will also have to schedule follow-up visits depending on what Dr. Hardt or Dr. Cruz instructs to see if the Invisalign treatment is working properly.
Which Issues Can Invisalign Fix?
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Crossbites
- Mild to moderate orthodontic issues
Benefits of Invisalign Over Traditional Braces
Since Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible, they are a more aesthetically pleasing option compared to traditional braces.
You can easily remove them for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, which helps you keep your teeth clean and gives you more freedom to eat what you want.
Invisalign aligners are smooth and comfortable to wear, with no sharp wires or brackets to cause irritation.
With fewer visits to the dentist and no adjustments needed, Invisalign treatment won’t affect your schedule or lifestyle.
How Long Does Invisalign Take to Straighten Teeth?
Most Invisalign patients achieve their desired results within 12 to 18 months. However, treatment time varies based on the complexity of your case, ranging from as little as 6 months for minor adjustments to 2 years for more extensive orthodontic corrections.
Timeline Factors That Affect Your Treatment:
- Severity of misalignment – Mild crowding resolves faster than complex bite issues
- Compliance with wear time – Wearing aligners 20-22 hours daily as prescribed speeds results
- Age and bone density – Younger patients with developing bones often see faster movement
- Number of aligners needed – Most patients receive 20-30 aligners throughout their treatment
- Individual tooth response – Everyone’s teeth move at slightly different rates
What to Expect During Your Invisalign Journey in Porterville:
Dr. Hardt and Dr. Cruz use advanced iTero® 3D scanning technology to create a precise treatment plan showing exactly how your teeth will move and when you’ll see results. You’ll switch to a new set of aligners every 1-2 weeks, and we’ll monitor your progress with checkups every 6-8 weeks.
Minor corrections (slight gaps or crowding) may take only 6-9 months, while comprehensive cases involving bite correction typically require 18-24 months. During your consultation, we’ll provide a personalized timeline based on your specific needs.
Frequently asked question
How often do I need to wear my Invisalign aligners and visit the office?
You must wear your Invisalign aligners for 20-22 hours daily, removing them only for meals, drinks other than water, and oral hygiene routines. Consistent wear is crucial for achieving optimal results within the projected timeline. You’ll switch to the next aligner in your series every 1-2 weeks as directed. Follow-up visits with Dr. Hardt or Dr. Cruz are scheduled based on your individual treatment plan to monitor progress, ensure proper fit, and address any concerns throughout your orthodontic journey.
