Clear aligners have become a popular method for straightening teeth without the use of traditional braces. They are almost invisible, removable, and more convenient for many people. However, the most common question I get asked is, “How long does it take for aligners to straighten teeth?“
The answer is largely based on the degree of crookedness of your teeth, your age, and how diligently you follow the instructions with your aligners. In this blog, we are going to explain in simple terms the length of time it typically takes to get through aligner treatment, what will affect the time it takes, and what you should reasonably expect.
Average Timeline for Aligner Treatment
Most patients that utilize aligners can usually expect treatment to take 6 months to 24 months.
- Mild cases: Alignment may be fixed in as little as 6 to 9 months for minor crowding or small gaps.
- Moderate cases: Misalignment that is more noticeable generally takes about 12 to 18 months.
- Severe cases: Complex problems, such as large gaps or bite corrections, may take 18 to 24 months or longer.
These timeframes exist because aligners are designed to gradually and safely move teeth. Each tray will generally shift teeth by around 0.25 millimeters over 1 to 2 weeks of wear, and then go on to the next set.
When Do You Notice Changes?
Although the complete treatment may take a year or longer, people will sometimes begin to notice small changes pretty quickly.
- 2-3 weeks: You may notice some subtle changes, primarily in the front teeth.
- 6-8 weeks: You may start to notice more change with alignment – more obvious changes.
- 3 months or more: Most people can clearly see progress when they view the before-and-after photos.
Remember, changes may feel faster at the beginning stages, but as more complicated movements occur (like rotating or moving molars), the changes may slow down.
Factors That Affect How Long Aligners Take
Everyone’s treatment duration will differ based on a variety of factors:
- Misalignment Severity
Minor crowding or spacing would typically be corrected quicker.
Major skeletal problems like deep bites need more time for resolution.
- Patient Age
Younger patients often overall, experience quicker results due to jaw development.
Adult teeth will still experience good movement and results, but may move ever so slightly slower compared to teens.
- Compliance (Time in wearing the aligners)
Aligners should be worn for about 20 to 22 hours a day. Failing to wear them during the day, or at nighttime, will slow progress.
- Type of Movement Needed
Movement of the front teeth tends to go faster.
Molars and canines (which have more roots) typically take longer.
Rotations and vertical movements (pulling a tooth down or pushing it up) are the most complex, and take the longest to treat.
- Biological Response
Everyone’s body responds differently to orthodontic pressure, some people’s teeth will move more quickly than others, even in the same environment.
- Attachments and Refinements
Sometimes a small tooth-colored bump will be added to enhance the aligners ability to grip and move teeth. Additionally, if the teeth do not precisely move as intended, additional refinement trays may be required and this typically adds a couple of months to the treatment.
Aligners vs. Braces: Treatment Duration
Both braces and aligners straighten teeth effectively, but the time required differs:
| Factor | Aligners (Clear Trays) | Braces (Metal or Ceramic) |
| Average Duration | 6 to 24 months | 12 to 36 months |
| Best for | Mild to moderate cases | Moderate to severe cases |
| Aesthetics | Nearly invisible | Visible brackets and wires |
| Adjustments | Tray changes at home | Regular orthodontist visits |
| Comfort | Smooth, less irritation | May cause sores or rubbing |
Can You Speed Up Aligner Treatment?
Although aligners work at a natural pace for your safety, there are approaches to prevent delays and even speed up the process:
- Wear aligners as prescribed (20–22 hours daily).
- Change trays on schedule or as directed by your orthodontist.
- Use chewies or bite sticks to seat the aligners properly.
- Practice good oral hygiene to avoid gum problems that will delay treatment.
- Minimize unnecessary snacking since aligners must be taken off to eat.
- See your orthodontist regularly to monitor progress.
Some orthodontists may suggest advanced devices like vibration devices (e.g., AcceleDent) that claim to enhance orthodontic treatment by moving teeth more quickly, however, results vary.
What Happens If You Don’t Wear Aligners Properly?
Not wearing the aligners as instructed will make the treatment take longer. Even missing a few days can cause your teeth to move back slightly, making the next aligner harder to fit and potentially adding weeks or months to your treatment.
Do Teeth Stay Straight After Aligners?
Even after aligners are removed, the process of straightening teeth does not stop. Teeth want to return to their original position, so retainers are recommended after treatment.
- There should be nightly retainers worn daily to maintain the results.
- Teeth can relapse in months without night retainers.
Conclusion
The process of aligners happens gradually; however, with patience and consistency, the results can be very rewarding. If you are wondering How long does it take for aligners to straighten teeth?, the length of treatment is variable, but most people tend to finish between 1 and 2 years. The discipline of wearing the aligners and following the orthodontist’s instructions makes all the difference.