Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually move teeth into improved alignment. It relies on a customized treatment plan based on digital scans and controlled, step-by-step adjustments. Here’s more information on the Invisalign treatment process:
Planning Your Aligner Treatment
Invisalign treatment begins with a visit to a dental professional to determine if you are a good candidate. The dentist assesses your personal situation because complex cases may require traditional methods. During this initial meeting, the dentist gathers specific data to create a customized plan for your smile. Here’s what you can expect during the consultation:
- The dentist examines your teeth and gums to make sure they are healthy enough for orthodontic movement.
- A state-of-the-art 3D computer imaging tool scans your mouth to create a precise digital model of your teeth.
- The doctor maps out the exact movements of your teeth and estimates the total treatment time based on the complexity of your alignment.
Once this digital model is complete, the lab fabricates your custom series of invisible aligners.
Starting Your First Aligners
You will return to the office to pick up your first set of Invisalign aligners once they are ready. The dentist will check the fit to make sure they sit correctly on your teeth and explain how to care for them. You may experience slight pressure at first, which indicates that the aligners are working to move your teeth. It is fundamental to wear the trays for at least 22 hours every day to achieve optimal results.
You should remove the aligners only to eat, drink, brush, and floss your teeth. This allows you to enjoy daily activities without food restrictions, so you can still eat foods that you enjoy. You can also maintain better oral hygiene because you can brush and floss normally without navigating around wires.
Checking In
You will switch to a new set of aligners approximately every two weeks as your teeth gradually shift. Regular appointments with your dentist are key to monitoring your progress and receiving your next batch of trays. These visits are usually quick, but they allow the doctor to make necessary adjustments to your plan. The average Invisalign treatment time ranges from 9 to 15 months, but this varies based on individual complexity.
Most patients go through 18 to 30 sets of aligners during the full course of treatment. Patients often experience fewer emergencies than with traditional braces because there are no wires that could break. The computer imaging technology used at the start also helps make sure the movement follows the predicted path.
Finishing Up With Retainers
Once you finish your final set of Invisalign aligners, your active treatment phase is complete. Maintaining your new smile requires a few final steps to prevent your teeth from shifting back into their old positions. Here is what you can expect:
- The dentist removes any attachments that were placed on your teeth to help the aligners grip.
- You receive a custom retainer that resembles your aligners but is made of a more durable material.
- The doctor provides specific instructions on how often to wear the retainer, which is usually nightly, to keep your smile stable.
Following these guidelines helps preserve the alignment you worked hard to achieve.
Schedule Your Invisalign Appointment Today
Maintaining the results of your Invisalign treatment is key to preserving your newly aligned smile. After completing the active movement phase, the attachments are removed, and you are provided with a custom retainer made of durable material to maintain alignment. Contact a qualified dentist near you to schedule your Invisalign appointment today.