You have probably heard of the clear plastic straighteners that are giving patients with alignment issues a welcome alternative to traditional braces. They are called Invisalign, and they are one of the biggest breakthroughs in Orthodontics to come along in a long time. However, you may be wanting to know exactly how does Invisalign work before you pursue it as a treatment option. It’s a simple process outlined step-by-step below.
Understanding Alignment Issues – How Does Invisalign Work?
Step One: Talk to a Doctor
Invisalign is an option for lots of patients and able to correct a variety of alignment issues, but it’s not a universal treatment. The only way to determine if you are a candidate for Invisalign is to consult with a doctor who has experience and expertise with the treatment. The doctor will inspect your alignment issues and then help you understand the details of the treatment if Invisalign is an option.
Step Two: Create a Treatment Plan
Your doctor will take x-rays, images, and impressions of your teeth in order to develop a 3-D picture. That picture will help the doctor to map out your precise treatment plan. This advanced technology also allows the doctor to show you in detail how the alignment of your teeth will change throughout the treatment process. At this stage, you will also learn approximately how long the treatment will take.
Step Three: Engineer the Straighteners
Using information from your doctor, the technicians at Invisalign will create customized straighteners designed to address your specific alignment issues. The straighteners are made out of soft plastic so that they don’t irritate the soft tissue of the gums or cheeks, and are completely clear so that they’re barely noticeable on your teeth.
Step Four: Start the Treatment
The Invisalign straighteners may be soft, but they provide enough resistance to subtly alter the alignment of your teeth over time. Every two weeks you will switch to a new straightener that advances your corrective treatment one step further. The straighteners can be easily removed when you’re eating, brushing, or simply don’t want to wear them, but for best results they need to stay on the teeth 20-22 hours per day. You will meet with your doctor about every six weeks to monitor the progress of your treatment.
Step Six: Enjoy Your New Smile
After your course of treatment is complete, you’re done with the straighteners and ready to greet the world grinning. In most cases, the correction provided by Invisalign is permanent, but your doctor will provide you with more information to consider over the long term.
Still deciding in Invisalign is the right option for you? Explore our related post to determine if Invisalign is the best solution for your alignment issues: Is Invisalign Right for Me?
Your Smile is Our Priority
Now that we have answered the question how does Invisalign work, you’re ready to start step one. The team at MyOrthodontist has extensive experience with Invisalign and lots of straight smiles to prove it. Schedule a casual consultation at one of MyOrthodontist offices located conveniently throughout North Carolina.
