How long will it take for Invisalign to close the gaps the dentist drilled in order for my teeth to move?

Question

Yesterday I put invisalign for the first time. The doctor drilled 8 on top and another 8 on the bottom to have space for my teeth to move over the course of the treatment. But I am totally freaked out due to those big gaps between the front teeth he drillied. I wonder how long will it take for the gaps to close.....or will they ever close?? How soon will I see the result? They do not look nice at all. I started to miss my old teeth although they were overcrowded.

Sarah Thompson, DMD · Answer

Every Invisalign case is unique, but I can tell you that most of them last about a year or less.  If your case is severe enough, then it can last two years or more.  I would suggest just giving your dental office a call and asking them.  They should be able to research that information in less than 5 minutes and let you know.  The fact that your dentist "drilled" some of your teeth, should not alarm you.  Your dentist is likely intending to move your crowded teeth into those spaces that he created.  I have done this for many patients.  "Drilling" (also called IPR) is actually one of the best techniques to reduce the chances of relapse after Invisalign treatment has concluded. Good luck with everything. Take care.

Jay Neuhaus, DDS · Answer

Ask your dentist to review the "ClinChek" with you. It will give you a graphic representation of when and how those "IPR" gaps will close.

How long will it take for Invisalign to close the gaps the dentist drilled in order for my teeth to move?

Answers (2)