When Should I Start Seeing Invisalign Results?

Hello Mandy,It usually takes 2-3 months for most patients to notice results from clear aligners.  It usually takes a few months later for other people to notice results from clear aligners.  It really depends on your specific case.  A great way to know what to expect is to ask your dentist to show you an animated 3-D preview of your teeth movements.  He/she will show you exactly what changes to expect and when to expect them.  He/she may even be able to download this 3-D animation for you.  I often times do this for my patients that are anticipating changes that have not yet occurred.  Make sure you choose an excellent cosmetic dentist or an orthodontist that is experienced in Invisalign.

Some of my cases have wonderful obvious results after just 4 trays while others may take up to half a year to just start seeing results.   It all depends on what type of tooth movement is needed and where in the mouth this movement needs to occur during the initial stages.  Ask you Dentist to email over or show you at the next visit your Clincheck staging video,  This helps to see where you started.  Where you are now and what to expect in the future.

I find most patients start noticing changes within the first 6-12 weeks with Invisalign. Your teeth will not move tremendously during these first weeks, but the changes should be significant enough where you will notice them and feel confident that the trays are working as expected.
Each tray accomplishes a little bit of movement, which is why trays are changed frequently. Each tray does not move every tooth.
Orthodontics is accomplished in planned stages. For example, in a patient that has a tremendous amount of spacing between the teeth, all of the space is not closed simultaneously, space is closed in a sequenced order to make sure the results are as ideal as possible.
An amazing feature of Invisalign is the 3D virtual simulation of tooth movement that your orthodontist will likely review with you BEFORE you even start. By watching the simulation, you will be able to see the predicted tooth movement at each stage, so you know what to expect throughout your orthodontic treatment. This 3D simulation can be reviewed during the process at any time, so you can easily monitor your progress.

Each Aligner has a small rotation or movement programmed it.  Some teeth are not planned to move with a special aligner.

One of my favorite features of treatment with Invisalign is its predictability. In other words before you even commit to a treatment you get a visual 3-D model of the exact timeline of your treatment. So by checking your Clincheck you will have a very good idea of when you will see the results you are expecting. 

Most patients will notice results around 3 months.  In general the more crowding or spacing you have, the results will be seen soon compare to some one who has mild problems, just like weight loss!
Good luck!

For all of my patients, I like to show them the online software that Invisalign uses called "ClinCheck" that predicts the final result and shows how the teeth will move (keeping in mind of course that it is a "predicted" result and actual results may be slightly different depending on the case). Some patients notice results sooner than others. Keep in mind that teeth are moved strategically to help make space for other teeth, so don't judge your results too soon!

This really varies patient to patient. Everyones teeth moves at different speeds due to their bone density which has a lot that goes into it - male vs female, and ethnicities. 
Most people will see significant results in about 4-6 weeks but every tray you use will move teeth little by little until you get the accomplished result. 
At the end of every treatment in my office we always do a little revision or touch up that is needed to get you that smile you wanted. 
Hope this helps 
Dr. Rami 

Hi Mandy,
Invisalign results should be noticeable within 2-3 months depending on the complexity of your orthodontic case and/or your treatment plan. Make sure to talk to your Orthodontist about your expectations and concerns so that he/she can properly address them. 
Also, it's paramount that you choose an experienced specialist (orthodontist) to treat your case in order to assure treatment success.
Good Luck!

I tell my patients that the results start to become very evident usually at the half way point of their prescribed length of treatment.