Understanding Treatment Times
The truth about orthodontic treatment is that every person’s smile is different. Some people need just a few months of treatment, while others need two years or more. The time it takes depends on how much your teeth need to move and how complex your case is.
For simple cases, like fixing small gaps or slightly crooked teeth, both Invisalign and traditional braces usually take about the same amount of time. This could be anywhere from six months to a year. However, for more complicated problems, the treatment times might be different.
Is Invisalign Faster Than Braces for Most Patients?
The answer isn’t always simple. Sometimes Invisalign can be faster than traditional braces, but not always. Here’s what affects the speed of your treatment:
Your specific dental issues: Invisalign works great for mild to moderate alignment problems. If you have minor crowding or spacing issues, Invisalign might actually work faster than braces. But if you have severe bite problems or very crooked teeth, traditional braces might be more efficient.
How well you follow instructions: With Invisalign, you need to wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours every day. If you forget to put them back in after eating or take them out too often, your treatment will take longer. Traditional braces stay on your teeth all the time, so they’re always working.
Your age: Younger patients often see faster results because their bones are still growing. At Brace Connection, we offer Invisalign First for kids, Invisalign Teen for teenagers, and regular Invisalign for adults. Each option is designed to work best for different age groups.
The Technology That Makes a Difference
At Brace Connection, we use advanced technology that can help speed up your treatment no matter which option you choose. Our practice uses iTero digital scanning technology; this means no messy putty impressions! The digital scans create super accurate images of your teeth, which helps Dr. Babaeian plan your treatment more precisely.
When treatment planning is more accurate, you spend less time in the orthodontist’s chair and might even finish treatment sooner. The technology shows you what your smile will look like after treatment, which helps you stay motivated to follow all the instructions.
Making the Right Choice for Your Smile
Whether you choose ceramic braces, traditional metal braces, or Invisalign clear aligners, the most important thing is picking the right treatment for your specific needs. During your free smile exam at Brace Connection, Dr. Babaeian will look at your teeth and talk with you about your goals. As a board certified orthodontist, he has the training and experience to recommend the best option for you.
Some patients love Invisalign because the aligners are almost invisible and can be removed for eating and brushing. Others prefer braces because they don’t have to remember to wear them or worry about losing them. Both options can give you an amazing smile.
Getting Started with Your Treatment
The fastest way to get the smile you want is to start treatment as soon as possible. Brace Connection serves patients throughout the Downey area and surrounding southeast Los Angeles County, including Long Beach, Anaheim, and Glendale. Whether you’re considering treatment for yourself or your child, the team at Brace Connection is ready to help.
Remember, the speed of your treatment matters less than getting the right results. A beautiful, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime is worth the investment of time. Schedule your free consultation today to learn more about your options and find out which treatment will work best for your unique smile.