So, you’re thinking you might go in for SureSmile clear aligner treatment. Congratulations on taking the first step of your new smile journey! But how long will that journey last? The shortest way to answer is that the time you can expect to wear SureSmile varies from patient to patient. Let’s dive into the determining factors.
Average SureSmile Treatment Time
SureSmile treatment length depends on the specific tooth movements your orthodontist needs to accomplish. Some patients may complete treatment in several months, while more complex cases can take a year or longer. The most common treatment length is 12 months.
During your consultation, your orthodontist will evaluate your teeth and bite and create a customized treatment plan. This allows them to estimate how many aligners you may need and how long treatment is expected to take.
What Can Affect Treatment Time?
Several factors can influence how quickly your teeth move.
The Complexity of Your Case
Minor spacing or crowding may require less treatment time than significant crowding, gaps, or bite problems. If your treatment involves moving several teeth substantial distances or correcting your bite, you may need more aligners and a longer treatment period.
How Consistently You Wear Your Aligners
Clear aligners work when they’re worn according to your treatment plan. Your dentist will provide specific instructions for how long you should wear your aligners each day, but the general rule of thumb is 20 to 22 hours of daily wear time. Removing them too frequently or leaving them out for extended periods can interfere with the planned tooth movements.
Following your prescribed wear schedule can help keep your treatment progressing as planned.
Your Individual Response to Treatment
Everyone’s teeth respond differently to orthodontic treatment. Even when two patients have similar alignment issues, their treatment timelines may differ. Your dentist may monitor your progress during appointments and make adjustments if your teeth aren’t moving exactly as anticipated.
Missed Appointments or Lost Aligners
Regular checkups allow your dental professional to monitor your progress and make sure your treatment remains on track. Losing or damaging an aligner can also create delays, particularly if a replacement needs to be ordered.
If you lose an aligner, contact your dental office for instructions rather than simply moving to the next tray.
What Happens After Treatment?
Finishing your final SureSmile aligner doesn’t necessarily mean your orthodontic treatment is completely finished. Teeth can naturally shift after orthodontic treatment, so wearing retainers as directed is an important part of maintaining your results.
Your orthodontist will recommend a retention plan based on your individual needs. Following those instructions can help keep your teeth in their new positions.
There isn’t one standard treatment length that applies to every SureSmile patient. Your dental professional can provide a more accurate estimate after examining your teeth, evaluating your bite, and developing your treatment plan.
About the Author
Dr. Michael O’Brien is a holistic dentist practicing at O’Brien Dental Wellness Center in Tulsa, OK. He graduated from the University of Las Vegas Nevada School of Dental Medicine and is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, a distinction only a handful of dentists can lay claim to. With Dr. O’Brien’s help and the use of SureSmile clear aligners, you can achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of. Contact his office online or call (918) 477-9000.