Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment that uses clear aligner trays to straighten teeth and improve the appearance of your smile. It can improve gaps, alignment issues, and bite problems that affect your smile. It’s a great alternative to traditional braces and can give you the smile you’ve always wanted. The treatment uses nearly invisible aligner trays that gradually move the teeth over several months. If you’re considering Invisalign, read on to learn about the step-by-step treatment process.
Step #1: Your Initial Consultation
To begin Invisalign treatment, you’ll need to schedule a consultation with your orthodontist where they will assess your smile goals and examine your teeth with X-rays to determine if Invisalign is right for you. Furthermore, your orthodontist will check for any dental problems that need to be treated. Prior to starting your orthodontic therapy, issues such as cavities and gum disease will need to be resolved.
Step #2: Planning Your Invisalign Treatment
Once your orthodontist has deemed you a suitable candidate for Invisalign, they will collaborate with you to develop a tailored treatment strategy. During this process, they will also take impressions of your teeth, which will be employed to fabricate a set of transparent aligner trays.
Each aligner set represents a step in the Invisalign treatment process, and you must wear them for a specific period before advancing to the next set. Your dentist will also estimate the duration of your treatment.
Step #3: Getting Your Aligners
After receiving your Invisalign aligners, your orthodontist will schedule an appointment for you to try on your first set. During this visit, they will verify the proper fit of your aligners and instruct you on the best way to clean and handle them. If needed, adjustments will be made to ensure a comfortable fit. Finally, your orthodontist will address any questions or concerns you may have before starting the treatment.
Step #4: Wearing Your Aligners
To keep your Invisalign treatment on track, it’s important to wear your aligners for 20-22 hours daily. This gives you ample time to remove them for eating, brushing, and flossing as well as playing sports, and attending special events.
Step #5: Periodic Checkups
Your orthodontist will need to see you regularly for checkups during your Invisalign treatment. These appointments, typically every six weeks, allow your progress to be monitored and any concerns to be addressed. During these visits, you will also receive your next few sets of aligners. They are typically brief and give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
Step #6: Finishing Treatment & Your Retainer
After completing the entire set of aligners, your orthodontist will provide you with a personalized retainer to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their previous position. They will also advise you on the recommended duration for wearing the retainer to maintain your new smile.
About the Practice
Clear Coast Dental, led by Dr. Akbar, Dr. Neelley, Dr. Herr, Dr. Luccio, and their team, is dedicated to providing exceptional dental care to patients in Edison. They specialize in orthodontics, offering Invisalign to straighten crooked smiles. They take the time to explain the treatment process, ensuring patients understand how it can benefit their smile. To schedule an appointment with one of their four skilled dentists or to learn more about Invisalign, visit their website or call their office at (508) 997-1030.
