Many people aren’t satisfied with their teeth alignment. They want to improve their smile but are afraid of using metal braces that don’t look good and cause many problems. Also, it is found in several studies that a big smile and straight teeth can positively affect an individual’s confidence. If you are one of these people and want to improve your smile without disturbing your overall aesthetic, Invisalign treatment is for you.
Invisalign treatment uses transparent plastic braces. These are custom-made and fit completely in your teeth. These work in a series of trays that gradually shift your teeth into place. Each tray is customized according to your teeth so that the teeth are slightly straighter than the previous time. Every two weeks, you will receive a new set, slowly moving your teeth towards their ideal position.
They offer you the same results as traditional metal braces without all the limitations that usually come with wearing braces. Invisalign braces are transparent so they are not noticeable. Plus, these can be easily removed for brushing, eating, and drinking. They do not irritate you like metal wires. One of the added advantages of Invisalign braces is that they are also very affordable. If you have decided to go for Invisalign treatment for your teeth, you must be curious to know about its process.
Here is the complete process explained in simple language so that you can understand it easily:
- Initial consultation
Before making any final decision you should do some research and consult dentists that practice Invisalign dentistry. Not all dentists are trained in this type of treatment, so make sure you choose one with proper experience and training.
Your dentist will discuss with you whether or not you’re a good candidate for Invisalign treatment.
You should ask all the questions in your mind to the dentist about the Invisalign treatment, such as how it works and what the cost is.
- X-rays and photographs
To start the process, your dentist will require X-rays and photographs of your teeth from multiple angles. The next step will be taking impressions of your teeth. Your dentist will make a 3-D model of your teeth from these impressions. It will also help the dentist determine how your teeth will move during the treatment.
- Preparatory work
Your dentist will create a customized treatment plan for you after taking impressions of your teeth. They will prepare a digital 3-D image of your teeth and use this 3-D image to map out the different stages of teeth positioning.
- First fitting of Invisalign aligners
The transparent aligners are modeled for your teeth’ impressions. You have to put them on. They will feel somewhat tight initially but with time you will get used to it. Make sure you wear them every day. Your dentist will suggest you wear them about 22 hours a day for the best results.
- Changes to your mouth
You will feel some changes in your mouth when you wear Invisalign aligners for the first time. This is perfectly normal and you will get used to it after some time. You can feel minor toothache as your teeth are forced into a new position. This pain will stop after a few days of tray change.
You may also feel some sensitivity in your teeth after wearing them. To mitigate this problem your dentist will give you toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth.
You can also feel some changes to your speech after wearing these aligners. This is because your tongue will feel some discomfort due to them. This is perfectly normal and it will disappear within a couple of days.
- Get a new set of aligners every two weeks
You will get a new set of aligners every two weeks. Each new aligner will be constructed as a next phase in the movement of your teeth towards the desired alignment goal. At each stage of the process, you will see your teeth gradually getting straighter. During each time, your dentist will concentrate on moving just certain teeth.
- Checkups after every 6 weeks
To evaluate the progress of your Invisalign treatment, your dentist will check your teeth after approximately 6 weeks. Sometimes you need to wear a retainer at the end of the treatment to help keep your teeth locked in their new position.
How to clean the Invisalign aligners?
Maintaining proper hygiene is very important to prevent the build-up of bacteria. Clean your aligner trays regularly in the morning as well as evening. You can clean them using a brush without toothpaste. You can also soak them in a dental cleaner solution prescribed by your dentist when not in use.
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