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If you're considering orthodontic treatment, one of the biggest questions you probably have is: “How long will it take to straighten my teeth?”
At Artemis Smiles Orthodontics in Sandy Springs, GA, we get this question all the time—especially from patients deciding between Invisalign and traditional braces. While both treatments are effective, there are some key differences in treatment timelines, depending on your goals, lifestyle, and orthodontic needs.
Here’s what you need to know about how Invisalign treatment duration compares to braces, and how we help you choose the right path for your smile.
How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?
Invisalign treatment typically lasts between 12 and 18 months for most patients. However, some mild cases may finish in as little as 6 months, while more complex alignments can take closer to 24 months.
Factors that affect Invisalign treatment time include:
- Severity of misalignment
- Patient age and growth stage
- Consistency in wearing aligners (20–22 hours per day)
- Number of aligners needed
- Follow-through with check-ins and progress scans
Because Invisalign is removable, success depends heavily on how consistently you wear your aligners. When worn as directed, the system is both efficient and discreet—making it a great option for adults and responsible teens.
How Long Do Braces Take to Work?
Traditional braces typically take between 18 and 24 months, though some cases can extend up to 30 months for complex bite corrections.
Braces may be a better option for:
- More severe crowding or spacing
- Jaw alignment issues
- Younger patients needing growth guidance
- Patients who may not wear aligners consistently
The benefit of braces is that they’re always working—because they’re fixed in place, there’s no risk of removing them or forgetting to wear them. This often makes braces more predictable for certain types of cases.
Invisalign vs. Braces — Timeline Comparison at a Glance
- Invisalign — 12–18 months on average
- Braces — 18–24 months on average
- Mild Cases — Invisalign may be faster
- Complex Cases — Braces often provide more control
- Compliance — Invisalign depends on patient wear; braces work around the clock
- Check-ins — Invisalign may require fewer in-person appointments
At Artemis Smiles, we’ll evaluate your specific case and recommend the option that gets you the best results in the most efficient time possible.
Can Invisalign Be Faster Than Braces?
Yes—in certain cases, Invisalign can be faster than braces. If you're dealing with mild crowding, spacing, or minor bite issues, Invisalign’s precision and custom staging may result in a shorter treatment time than braces.
That said, braces are still the go-to choice for more complex movements, which may require a longer timeline—but with incredibly reliable outcomes.
What Can Help Speed Up Treatment Time?
At Artemis Smiles, we offer accelerated orthodontic options that can shorten your overall treatment time—regardless of whether you choose Invisalign or braces. These include:
- Vibration technology to speed up bone remodeling
- Photobiomodulation (light therapy) for faster tooth movement
- Customized digital treatment planning for optimal efficiency
We’ll discuss all of these options during your consultation to ensure your treatment is not only effective—but timely too.
Let’s Find the Fastest Path to Your Best Smile
Every smile is unique, which is why treatment time varies from person to person. At Artemis Smiles Orthodontics in Sandy Springs, we provide customized treatment plans using the latest technology, ensuring you get a straighter, healthier smile—without unnecessary delays.
Schedule your free consultation today and let us help you find the right balance of speed, comfort, and results with Invisalign or braces.
