If it’s been a while since you looked into orthodontic treatments, you might be surprised to hear that there is a new kid on the block. While metal braces are still widely used, many people are choosing Invisalign clear aligners to straighten their teeth. They don’t use the traditional bracket and wire system, so how does Invisalign work? Continue reading to learn more about the treatment process!
Step 1: Invisalign Consultation
The first step in getting clear aligners is to have a consultation with your dentist. This visit ensures that Invisalign will help you achieve the results you want. In most cases, patients with mild to moderate misalignment are good candidates for treatment.
Plus, this appointment lets you ask all the questions you have about Invisalign. Afterward, your dental team will start the process of creating your clear aligners.
Step 2: Wearing Your Aligners
A dental lab crafts your Invisalign trays from detailed impressions that your dentist gave. Once they arrive at your dental office, you’ll be back to learn more about the aligners. Many people will need to have “buttons” placed on their teeth, which are small bumps made from tooth-colored composite resin. Your clear aligners will attach to these buttons so that the trays will put the right amount of gentle pressure on specific teeth. This is what causes your teeth to slowly move into their desired positions.
You’ll learn how to put in the Invisalign trays, how to take them out, and how to care for them every day. You will also be given several sets of aligners with instructions on when to start the next pair!
Step 3: Attending Progress Appointments
While you undergo the teeth-straightening process at home, your dentist will want to check on your progress with visits about every six to eight weeks. If everything is going well, they’ll send you home with more aligners. No need to worry if anything pops up! Your dentist will make changes to your treatment plan so you stay on course.
Step 4: Final Refinements
When you’re done with all your aligners, there’s a good chance you’ll love your new smile! If there are any minor tweaks still left to do, your refinement trays will do just that! These aligners will make any final adjustments to give you the straighter, healthier teeth you deserve.
Step 5: Getting a Retainer
The final step of any orthodontic treatment is getting a retainer. This is crucial in preserving the time and money you invested in your smile. There’s a chance that your teeth will drift back to where they were over time, so wearing this dental appliance as directed will help ensure that your aligned grin stays that way for years to come.
About the Practice
At South Shore Dental Care, we understand how sometimes straighter teeth can seem like a dream. We are here to make it come true by offering Invisalign clear aligners. In no time, you’ll be on a smile journey that is comfortable without the traditional metal bracket and wire system. If you want to see if Invisalign is right for you, schedule an appointment or call us at (516) 798-3808.