Invisalign is a popular teeth straightening treatment option that general dentists often administer. It is one of many clear aligner options that work to discreetly straighten minor imperfections in the teeth. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign® is an option that is said to be easier and more seamless.
Want to learn more about how the Invisalign process works? The step-by-step process is pretty straightforward, but it can be helpful to be aware of it, especially when considering the treatment. Learn more in this article as we highlight each step of the Invisalign process.
Outlined below is the step-by-step process of Invisalign treatment. Read on to learn more!
The first step in getting Invisalign is working with the general dentist to come up with a custom treatment plan. An advantage of Invisalign is that it is completely custom-made to the patient's mouth, needs and desires. The general dentist will take digital images, X-rays and molded impressions of the patient's mouth to ensure that every aspect is notated.
Next, the Invisalign aligners are created in a special dental lab. The Invisalign software is used to predict how the patient's teeth will change over time, which allows for the creation of an entire set of Invisalign aligners. The patient will have to wait a few weeks for the lab to create the custom aligners.
Once the Invisalign has been created, the patient will return to the general dentist to begin treatment. The dentist will walk the patient through wearing Invisalign each day. Expectations and recommendations will be addressed to ensure that the patient understands how it works.
General dentists recommend that patients wear Invisalign for at least 23 hours a day to ensure that the treatment is effective. Other than oral hygiene and eating, the aligners should always be worn.
The next step in the Invisalign process is to undergo adjustments. Just like traditional braces, Invisalign too requires regular adjustments with the general dentist. Invisalign adjustments are easier than with braces. Instead of having wires and brackets tightened, the general dentist will simply administer the next set of aligners. The old aligners will be thrown away and the next set will be put in.
With all teeth straightening comes the maintenance part. Once the Invisalign treatment is complete, general dentists highly recommend a retainer to help maintain the results. Retainers are used to keep the teeth straight after the treatment has been completed. Most of the time, retainers are only to be worn at night while the patient is sleeping. In some instances, retainers are cemented into place, permanently.
Invisalign is a great teeth straightening option for someone looking to correct minor imperfections. Questions and concerns regarding Invisalign should be addressed by a general dentist. Reach out today to get started!
Request an appointment here: https://smilewellsouthbay.com or call SmileWell Family Dentistry & Periodontics at (310) 904-6375 for an appointment in our Torrance office.
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