If you are interested in orthodontics, then you might’ve heard of clear aligners before. They are making the rounds since patients enjoy them as they offer a more discreet and comfortable braces alternative. You won’t need to deal with any metal, but just how does Invisalign work? You may wonder what you can expect while you get this treatment, so here’s a step-by-step guide to what generally happens from the beginning to the end.
Step #1: Consultation with Your Dentist
You will need a consultation before you can get clear aligners. Your dentist will want to make sure that they are able to correct your misalignment and malocclusion effectively to give you the results you want. Mild to moderate cases are often eligible, but your provider will let you know! You’ll also be able to ask any questions you have; that way, you’ll feel confident getting this treatment.
Step #2: Getting Your Aligners
Once your dentist confirms you’re a good candidate, they’ll then take impressions of your smile and send it to a dental lab. Here, skilled technicians will make your Invisalign trays and send them back to the office. You’ll be back to get them, but you may also need to have attachments placed. These are small tooth-colored buttons that let the aligners apply specific pressure on certain teeth, helping them move into their desired positions.
You’ll also be given the rundown on how to put your Invisalign in, take them out, and tips to effectively care for them. You will then leave the office with several sets in hand that you will switch to every week or so.
Step #3: Going to Progress Checks
Throughout your treatment, you will wear your trays for 20 to 22 hours every day and advance to the next set consistently. To make sure everything is shifting as expected, you will need to have your progress checked every six to eight weeks.
Your dentist will make sure everything is good and then send you home with more Invisalign sets to keep your smile straightening on track. If something worrying shows up, then your provider will make the necessary adjustments.
Step #4: Doing Final Refinements
After you finish with your aligners, you’ll likely have the straighter smile you’ve always wanted. However, if there are minor tweaks left, then you will be given refinement trays to help make your grin as perfect as you want it to be.
Step #5: Wearing Your Retainer
When all is said and done, you’ll need retainers to protect the time and money you invested in your oral health. It’s possible for your teeth to shift back to their original positions naturally, so wear this dental appliance as directed to ensure it stays pristine. Keep up with it, and you can enjoy your results for a lifetime.
About the Practice
At Texas Dentistry & Braces, you benefit from a skilled team of dentists who look after you and your oral health. We are here to help the Kaufman community get the straighter set of teeth they want with reliable treatments like Invisalign. By sticking with you throughout your orthodontic journey, you can better know what to expect throughout. If you are interested in clear aligners, schedule an appointment or call our office at (972) 932-3918.