Straighten Your Smile with Invisalign: How It Works


Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that aims to straighten teeth misalignment. It utilizes nearly unnoticeable, detachable aligners that are custom-made for each patient. This is an excellent substitute for traditional metal braces as the treatment time is shorter, and there is less discomfort and pain. This is due to the fact that aligners are made of smooth, comfortable material without wires, brackets, and sharp edges that could trigger irritation.

How does Invisalign straighten teeth?

Your dentist will give you aligner sets designed to slowly move your teeth into their correct placement. You have to use your aligner trays for at least 22 hours daily, then move on to the following set after two weeks. This will go on until you finish your treatment according to your customized treatment plan.

The Invisalign method lasts 12 to 18 months but may be shorter for mild cases or longer for more serious issues. Throughout the duration of the treatment, you will certainly have regular check-ups with your dentist to track your development.

You can only remove your aligners when you clean them and when you eat, brush, and floss your teeth. Avoid drinking hot beverages when using your aligners, as this may warp your aligners’ shape.

When you complete your treatment, you can maintain your straight and beautiful smile by wearing a retainer given by your dentist. This will help ensure that your teeth don’t return to their initial misaligned positions. It’s worth noting that Invisalign only helps with mild to moderate teeth misalignment, crowded and crooked teeth, and bite problems. If you have severe dental concerns, think about traditional dental braces instead.

What is the process of Invisalign treatment?

Below is a typical procedure when getting this procedure:

Consultation

Your dentist will assess your oral problem to determine if you are qualified for Invisalign. This includes examining your teeth, gums, and jaw. It also involves a 3D scan of your mouth for an accurate evaluation. Click here to find out why acquiring a 3D dental scan is important before starting Invisalign treatment.

Designing the Treatment Plan

Your dentist will develop a treatment strategy that considers the structure of your teeth and any underlying concerns. This includes creating virtual models of your teeth and their motions at the time of each stage.

Making the Aligners

If you are a good candidate, the Invisalign laboratory will make your aligners based on your treatment arrangement. This process takes around 4 to 6 weeks for each set of aligners.

Receiving the Aligners and Treatment

When you obtain your very first aligner set, your dentist will brief you on how to use them correctly. They will also set up regular check-ups to monitor your progress and see if possible issues may delay your treatment.

Completion of Treatment

When you complete your treatment, you will be asked to put on a retainer to ensure that your newly straightened teeth will not return to their original position. You may wear your retainer for a minimum of twenty-two hours a day for six months, then only during the night in the following six months before you finally stop wearing it completely. Sometimes, people need to use it for several years or even throughout their lifetime.

Is Invisalign expensive?

Invisalign is relatively expensive. However, the total cost can vary on a number of factors, including the type of treatment method you need, the extent of your misalignment, the intricacy of your case, your specific location and dentist, and whether you have an insurance policy. Some private insurance covers a portion of the price of Invisalign retainers, but it’s best to check with your insurance provider before treatment.

Final Thoughts

Invisalign is an excellent way to straighten misaligned teeth without the hassle of metal braces. It’s comfortable, virtually invisible, and can give you a more beautiful smile faster than traditional dental braces. However, consult your dentist before deciding since you may not be a good candidate. They will strongly recommend a more suitable option, such as standard braces or other orthodontic solutions.