Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment that uses clear plastic aligners to gradually shift teeth into their desired position. While traditional metal braces have been the go-to option for correcting misaligned teeth, Invisalign offers a discreet and comfortable alternative.
Each set of Invisalign aligners is designed to make incremental adjustments to the position of your teeth over time. During treatment, which usually lasts 12 to 18 months, patients switch to a new set of aligners about every 1 to 2 weeks. This gradual process moves the teeth incrementally toward the desired alignment while avoiding the discomfort and visibility of traditional braces.
The process of getting Invisalign involves several steps, starting with an initial consultation with an orthodontist or general dentist who is trained in providing Invisalign treatment. During this consultation, the dentist will evaluate your teeth and determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign.
Steps Involved in Getting Invisalign
Let’s take a look at the process of getting Invisalign treatment.
Consultation
The first step is to schedule a consultation with a qualified Invisalign provider. During this initial appointment, your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, and overall oral health. They may take X-rays or digital scans that allow for a more detailed view of your dental structure, which is crucial for creating a comprehensive 3D image of your mouth. This consultation is also a great opportunity for you to ask any questions about the treatment and express your specific treatment goals.
Treatment Plan
After gathering the necessary information, your dentist will use 3D images of your mouth to develop a customized treatment plan. This plan will outline the adjustments to your teeth that each aligner will make over the course of your treatment. Your dentist will explain each stage of this process.
Aligner Fabrication
Once you approve the treatment plan, the next step is the fabrication of your aligners. Each aligner is custom-made using advanced 3D printing technology to ensure that they’re tailored to fit snugly over your teeth. This process typically takes a few weeks.
Wearing the Aligners
You’ll be given a series of aligners, typically ranging between 18 to 30 sets. Each set is designed to be worn for about 2 weeks before you transition to the next set in the series. It’s important to wear your aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours a day to achieve the best results. You can remove them while eating, brushing, and flossing, which allows for easier dental hygiene compared to traditional braces.
Progress Checkups
Throughout your treatment, you’ll have periodic checkups with your dentist, usually every 6–8 weeks, to monitor your progress. During these appointments, your dentist will ensure that your teeth are shifting according to plan. They’ll also make any necessary adjustments to your treatment. This step is crucial for ensuring that your treatment stays on track and that any potential issues are addressed promptly.
Maintenance
Once you’ve completed your treatment and achieved your desired results, the next step is maintaining your smile. You’ill need to wear a retainer to keep your teeth in their new positions. Your dentist will provide detailed instructions on how often to wear the retainer, which is typically full-time for a short period and then gradually reduced to nighttime wear. This maintenance phase is essential for ensuring that your hard-earned results last a lifetime.
Benefits of Invisalign
In addition to being virtually invisible, there are many other benefits of Invisalign that make it a popular choice for teeth alignment:
- Comfortable: Invisalign aligners are made of smooth plastic and don’t have any sharp wires or brackets that can irritate the inside of your mouth.
- Removable: The fact that the aligners are removable makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene during treatment. You can simply remove them when eating or brushing your teeth. This also means you can still enjoy all your favorite foods without worrying about getting food stuck in your braces.
- Customized: Invisalign aligners are custom-made for each individual, ensuring a comfortable and precise fit.
- Faster Results: The average treatment time for braces is about 20.6 months, while clear aligners like Invisalign have an average treatment time of 16.19 months.
- Convenience: With Invisalign, you only need to visit your dentist every 4-6 weeks for progress checkups and to receive new sets of aligners. This makes it a convenient option for those with busy schedules.
- Versatility: Invisalign can treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, including overcrowded teeth, gaps between teeth, and malocclusions.
- Improved Confidence: With the ability to straighten your teeth without anyone noticing, many patients report feeling more confident and self-assured during their treatment with Invisalign.
Discover Invisalign & Achieve Your Dream Smile at Grand West Dental
Invisalign offers a comfortable, convenient, and discreet way to achieve a beautiful smile. If you are considering tooth alignment treatment, talk to your dentist about whether Invisalign is right for you. Remember to follow all instructions and maintain regular appointments to ensure the best results.
At Grand West Dental, our experienced dentists are trained and certified in providing Invisalign treatment. We’re committed to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile with the most advanced and effective methods available. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out if Invisalign is the right option for you.
