If you are seeking orthodontic treatment to straighten your teeth, you’ve probably heard of Invisalign. A practically invisible alternative to traditional metal braces, Invisalign uses a series of clear plastic aligners to repair common dental issues.
Most people know the advantages of Invisalign, but it’s important to learn how the process works. Use this guide to help determine if Invisalign is right for you.
Getting Started
The first step in determining if you are a candidate for Invisalign is a consultation with your orthodontist. After a physical examination, your doctor makes a 3D image of your teeth using an optical scanner. Dental X-rays and photographs will also be taken for a complete profile of your mouth, teeth, and jaw. Completing these records takes about 60-90 minutes. The records are then sent to Invisalign for your personal treatment plan.
Technicians at Invisalign use your records to create a 3D model of your teeth. This model is used to create a full simulation of the way your treatment will progress. Your dentist or orthodontist will review the simulation, and you may get to see it as well. The simulation will give you an idea of what your smile will look like after treatment. After the simulation is approved your complete set of aligners will be created.
Invisalign Treatment
When you get your first set of aligners, your dentist will explain the details of treatment.
Although they are removable, you will be expected to wear your aligners all the time except when eating or brushing and flossing. Leaving your aligners out for extended periods of time can delay your results.
Each set of aligners is typically worn for about two weeks. You may notice your aligners fitting looser when it is time for a new set. This change will let you know your teeth are moving into place. Check-ups usually occur every four to six weeks, which will require your dentist to give you more than one set of aligners at a time. Generally, 20 to 30 sets of aligners will be used to complete treatment, making the timeline approximately the same as traditional braces.
At Fisher Pointe Dental, we work to provide a safe and relaxed environment for all dental treatments. If you are wondering whether the Invisalign process is right for you, contact us or fill out our forms online today.
