What’s Invisalign?
Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth and correct various dental issues. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are made from transparent plastic material, making them virtually invisible when worn. Many general and cosmetic dentists are able to offer this revolutionary teeth straightening treatment to their patients. Read on for more information on the typical Invisalign journey.
Consultation
The first stage of the Invisalign process is the initial consultation and prequalification. This crucial step allows your dentist to evaluate your oral health.
During your consultation, your dentist or orthodontist will typically examine your oral health and determine if Invisalign is the right treatment for you. Depending on your specific needs, they may recommend a different type of appliance, such as traditional braces, or advise other steps before beginning any orthodontic work.
To accurately assess your teeth, your dentist will often take an x-ray or 3D scan of your mouth. They will then typically generate a realistic 3D model of your teeth for evaluation. This digital representation allows them to analyze the shape and positioning of each tooth and assess how they align with one another – all while involving you in the process using computer visualization technology.
Costs of consultations differ, depending on your dentist. Check to see if your insurance will cover the cost of your dental work.
Treatment Plan
Your dentist will review the steps with you and make any necessary adjustments before beginning treatment.
Your First Trays
You will often receive a few months’ worth of aligners. Your dentist will set up appointments to explain what you should and should not do while wearing your aligners.
Aligners will have to be worn for twenty-two hours a day. While wearing your aligners, avoid drinking anything other than water to prevent stains or bacteria growth.
Follow Up Appointments
Every few months, your dentist will check your teeth to ensure the treatment works properly. Keeping up with your follow up appointments is an important step to ensure that your treatment will finish on schedule. Putting off appointments could prolong the process and lead to unwanted complications.
Ending Treatment
Invisalign treatment typically takes seven to eighteen months to complete. Your treatment will depend on your unique smile and treatment plan. Once your teeth have moved into their new positions, the dentist will often give you a retainer to help keep your teeth from moving out of position.
Conclusion
The entire Invisalign process starts with finding the right dentist. Once you have found a dentist you are comfortable with, the two of you can devise a plan that fits your lifestyle and budget. If you stick to that plan, you will see a noticeable difference in your smile in no time.