Week 1 — first aligner
Pressure when first inserted, mild ache for 24-48 hours, slight speech adjustment for 1-3 days. The most intense aligner experience — each subsequent aligner is easier. Invisalign in Islington begins with a free consultation, iTero scan and ClinCheck plan.
Weeks 2-3 — adaptation
Speech back to normal, routine established, easier removal and replacement.
Weeks 4-8 — early progress
Subtle tooth movement visible against baseline photos; attachments may be bonded for specific movements. If elastics are part of your plan, see Invisalign rubber bands (elastics) for what they do and why.
Completion windows
Express cases complete around 3-6 months; Moderate around 6-9 months; Full cases in the 12-18 month window, often with refinement aligners for teeth that haven't fully reached target position. For a closer look at timing by case, see how long Invisalign takes, case by case.
Post-treatment retention timeline
First 3 months: Vivera full-time. 3-12 months: nightly only. 1+ years: indefinite nightly wear. Our guide to Invisalign retention after treatment explains why.
The 22-hour compliance reality
At 20 hours/day, timeline extends ~10%; at 16 hours/day, ~50% and the aligner track may need resetting. Most patients underestimate how much 22-hour compliance actually requires. Plan options are set out on our Invisalign cost page.
By Dr Vishal Patel, BDS, MSc Aesthetic & Restorative Dentistry, GDC 103127, Invisalign Diamond II Provider. Last reviewed 2026-05-17.
