What is Invisalign?
Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners to straighten your teeth – without the need for metal brackets or wires. Invisalign is used to close gaps between teeth, remove overcrowding of teeth, or to correct problems with bite. While many view Invisalign as a cosmetic dental procedure, correct spacing between teeth is important to maintain a clean, healthy mouth. When teeth are too tight, pateints have difficulty flossing between teeth. And, when teeth are too far apart, food will get stuck between teeth.
What Can Patients Expect?
Invisalign treatment begins with a consultation. During the consultation, you and one of our dentists will consider your treatment options. If Invisalgin is an option, and you agree to treatment, our team will take photographs and radiographs of your teeth. We will also use their iTero scanner to take a digital impression of your teeth.
Our team will work with Invisalign to formulate your treatment. A computer simulation will be shown to you, so you will be able to see a finished product.
During your next series of visits you will be provided with clear aligners. The aligners fit snugly over your teeth, and each aligner is designed to slightly move your teeth. A set of aligners is typically worn for two weeks, though we may provide you with specific instructions on how long to wear each set. Invisalign treatment can take anywhere between six months to two years.
Aligners should be worn everyday for as long as possible – Invisalign recommends a 20 hour wear time for optimal results. The aligners are only removed for eating. After eating a patient should brush and floss before placing the aligners back into the mouth. Throughout your treatment you will return the office every two to four weeks to ensure that treatment is progressing as planned.
Once your treatment is complete, you will be provided a retainer. The retainer, which fits just like an aligner, should be worn every night to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original position.
