One of the first questions patients ask is: “How long will Invisalign take?” The honest answer is that Invisalign timelines vary. Some plans finish in months, while others take longer depending on your bite and how much tooth movement is needed.
Typical Invisalign Timelines
Many adult Invisalign cases fall somewhere around a year to a year and a half, but your plan may be shorter or longer. The best estimate comes after an exam and a digital scan, when your dentist can map movements and identify bite issues that affect timing.
What Makes Invisalign Take Longer (or Shorter)
Several factors influence your timeline
- Complexity: more crowding, spacing, or bite correction often takes longer
- Wear time: consistently wearing aligners 20–22 hours per day is critical
- Tracking: if aligners aren’t fitting closely, adjustments or new scans may be needed
- Refinements: additional aligners are common at the end for fine details
- Missed changes: delaying tray changes or losing aligners can extend treatment
How Often Are Checkups
Most plans include periodic checkups so your dentist can confirm everything is tracking. Visit frequency depends on your case, your aligner change schedule, and whether you’re using attachments or elastics.
Can Invisalign Be Faster Than Braces
For some mild to moderate alignment issues, Invisalign can be very efficient—especially when aligners are worn consistently. For complex tooth movements, braces may still be a better fit. Your dentist will help you compare options based on stability and your goals.
How to Keep Your Invisalign Timeline on Schedule
- Wear aligners as directed (don’t “make up time” by skipping)
- Keep aligners clean and seated fully (use chewies if recommended)
- Bring aligners to appointments and let us know if fit changes
- Stay on top of hygiene to avoid cavities or gum inflammation that could slow progress
Looking for Invisalign in Palo Alto
If you want a personalized timeline estimate, schedule a consultation for an exam and digital scan. We’ll outline realistic timing, expected phases, and what you can do to stay on track.
