Are you interested in straightening your teeth with Invisalign, but you haven’t signed on the dotted line yet because you’re not sure what to expect? Don’t worry – this is something many patients are interested in learning more about. Plus, it’s helpful to do plenty of research on the topic so the transition to life with braces is as smooth as possible. With all of that said, keep reading for a step-by-step breakdown of the Invisalign treatment process.
Step #1: The Consultation
The very first step of the entire Invisalign treatment process is the consultation, which is when you will meet with your dentist to share your dental history as well as your smile goals. Then, they will take the necessary X-rays and visually examine your teeth and gums. If they determine that you’re a candidate, they will answer any questions you have before moving onto the next step: creating your custom treatment plan.
Step #2: The Treatment Plan
Since no two smiles are exactly the same, no two treatment plans are exactly the same. To create yours, your dental team will need to determine the number of clear aligners needed, if rubber bands and other orthodontic accessories need to be added, and how often you’ll progress to the next set of trays in the series. Once all of the details are solidified, they’ll provide you with an estimate of your treatment timeline as well as your out-of-pocket expenses.
Step #3: The Aligners
Usually, it takes between four and six weeks for your aligners to be made. Once they arrive, you’ll come back in for your first official Invisalign appointment. At this time, your dental team will show you how to put on and take off your aligners as well as how to care for them so they don’t warp or yellow. They will also give you a few instructions (including how often you need to wear your trays), answer any questions you have, and schedule your next appointment.
Step #4: The Check-In Visits
The check-in visits are usually every 6-8 weeks. At each appointment, your dental team will take new scans of your teeth so they can monitor how they are moving. If you’re on-track with your treatment plan, then you’ll receive your next batch of aligners and be in and out of their office in 20 minutes or less. If you aren’t on-track with your treatment plan, then your visit may be a bit longer since adjustments need to be made.
Step #5: The Retainer
If you make it to the end of your series of aligners and your teeth aren’t perfectly straight, then refinement trays will be ordered. If, on the other hand, you’re happy with your results, then it will be time to move onto the retention phase of your orthodontic treatment. This involves a custom retainer, which should be worn each night to prevent orthodontic relapse (the phenomenon when teeth begin to drift out of their perfectly aligned positions).
About the Practice
Our team at East Center Dental is happy to offer Invisalign, a discreet, comfortable, and hassle-free orthodontic treatment. If you’re interested in clear aligners, then you’ll be pleased to hear that we use Virtual Smile Design so you can preview the results. Plus, we offer several patient amenities – from cozy blankets to neck pillows – to ensure each appointment is relaxing and comfortable. If you want to learn more about the Invisalign treatment process, then reach out to our Warsaw dental team via our website or by phone at (574) 269-1787.