Everything you need to know about how long it takes to get a straighter smile with SmileDirectClub aligners.

SmileDirectClub straightens most smiles in an average of 4-6 months, but the exact length of your plan is up to the state-licensed dentist or orthodontist overseeing your case.

If you’re asking yourself, “How long does Smile Direct Club take to work?” we’re breaking it all down, from the 3D image or impression kit to maintaining your sparkling new smile with retainers.

How long does it take Smile Direct Club take to straighten teeth?

The state-licensed dentist or orthodontist assigned to you will determine the best plan for your needs, but SmileDirectClub aligners straighten most smiles with minor to moderate malocclusion in an average of just 4-6 months.¹

3D image

There are 2 ways to start straightening: a 3D image at one of our SmileShops or a doctor-prescribed, remote impression kit. A SmileShop appointment takes about 30 minutes and is completely free. (And we’ll send you home with a SmileDirectClub swag bag.) Find the SmileShop nearest to you and schedule your free appointment here.

Impression kit

Taking your impressions is easy and only takes about 30 minutes from the comfort of your own home. Mail them back to us using the included prepaid label, and we’ll start creating your smile plan as soon as we receive and approve your impressions.

Smile plan

Within 72 hours of receiving your completed 3D scan or approved impression kit in the mail, you’ll get an email showing you your smile plan, a projected outcome of what your new smile will look like.

How long does Smile Direct Club take to ship?

Once you order your aligners, they are sent into production. Each of your aligner is custom-made especially for your smile plan, and you’ll receive all the aligners in your plan at one time to make your smile journey as easy as possible. Your aligners typically arrive at your doorstep in 4–5 weeks. Here are a few ideas for what you can do while you wait for your aligners.

Retainers

When you’re about a month out from completing your smile plan, you’ll want to order your first set of custom retainers. Retainers are custom-made for your new smile and take 2–3 weeks to get to you. Wear your very first retainer set all the time for 2 weeks, just like you would your aligners. This means taking them out only when eating or drinking anything other than cool water. After the 2 weeks are up, or if this isn’t your first set, wear your retainers at night (for at least 8 hours).

Don’t forget to replace your retainers every 6 months to keep them clean, fresh, and tight-fitting to preserve your gorgeous new grin. Give our Customer Care team a call, and they can set up your account so you get your retainers every 6 months.

Are you ready to start your journey to a straighter smile? Take the free 30-second assessment today.

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¹ “4-6 months” claim is based on the number of 22 hour wear customer orders (approx. 95%) with treatment plans that are 4, 5, or 6 months.