How Long Does Invisalign® Take? Treatment Timeline Explained

March 24, 2025

If you're considering Invisalign® to straighten your teeth, one of the first questions you may have is: How long does Invisalign take? While every smile is unique, most Invisalign® treatments take between 6 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of your case and how well you follow your treatment plan. At Loudoun Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we customize Invisalign® treatments to fit your needs, ensuring an efficient and comfortable experience.

Breaking Down the Invisalign® Timeline

1. Initial Consultation (1-2 Weeks)

Your Invisalign® journey begins with a consultation at Loudoun Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, where we assess your smile and discuss your goals. If you're a good candidate, we'll take digital scans of your teeth and create a customized treatment plan. These scans are sent to the Invisalign® lab to design your aligners.

2. Receiving Your Aligners (2-4 Weeks)

Once your aligners are ready, you’ll return to our office to receive your first set. We’ll ensure they fit properly and provide instructions on how to wear and care for them.

3. Active Treatment Phase (6-18 Months)

You’ll wear each set of aligners for about 1-2 weeks, gradually shifting your teeth into place.

Aligners must be worn 20-22 hours per day to stay on track.

We’ll schedule checkups every 6-8 weeks to monitor progress and provide new aligners.

4. Refinements (If Needed) (1-3 Months)

Some patients need additional aligners to perfect their results. This phase is normal and helps ensure the best outcome.

5. Retention Phase (Lifetime Maintenance)

After completing Invisalign®, you’ll receive a retainer to maintain your results. Wearing it as directed will keep your smile straight for years to come.

Ready to Begin Your Invisalign® Journey?

At Loudoun Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re dedicated to providing high-quality, personalized Invisalign® treatment to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. If you're ready to get started, schedule a consultation with us today. Call our office or book an appointment online to take the first step toward a straighter, healthier smile!

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