If you’re coming into a dentist’s office to get your teeth straightened, you might be offered what is called an Invisalign treatment. While its primary purpose is to help straighten teeth, it’s a far cry from the traditional use of metal brackets for teeth straightening. It uses a near-invisible set of plates to slowly push your teeth into place—but its “invisible” nature isn’t all that it’s about!
It is easy to wear and can straighten your teeth much faster than traditional methods. Of course, there are some drawbacks to Invisalign, but the benefits generally outweigh the cost!
That being said, if you are here to learn more about Invisalign, let us talk about what you can expect when getting one:
1. The consultation
The first part of the entire procedure that you will undergo is the consultation phase. It is here where you will be checked to see if an Invisalign treatment is the right procedure for you.
During this time, the dentist will take pictures of your teeth, along with making impressions out of them. If you are eligible for Invisalign, then you will head on to the next step. If you aren't, then you will need to opt for another teeth-straightening solution, such as the use of the traditional metal braces.
2. The building process
If you're eligible for Invisalign, then the next part involves the creation of the plates. The building process of your Invisalign trays starts once you agree to opt for the procedure! Using advanced 3D technology, dentists are able to create an accurate and customizable plan that will effectively straighten your teeth.
3. The first aligners
Once you have received your first set of aligners, your dentist will instruct you on how to use and care for them.
Be sure to follow their instructions carefully; otherwise, you may end up prolonging the treatment plan, effectively making it more expensive—or, you may hurt yourself if you are not careful. Any discomfort you may feel now will be normal since your teeth are being pushed to get straight, but if it’s excessively painful, then alert your doctor immediately.
4. The ongoing procedure
During the treatment, you will be following the instructions given by your dentist. For instance, you will be instructed to remove your aligners before eating, then thoroughly brushing and flossing your teeth and cleaning the aligners before putting them back on. Also, expect to be instructed to come back to the dentist once every few weeks to check your progress. You may possibly receive a new set of Invisalign trays to wear for the upcoming weeks as part of the overall teeth-straightening process.
5. The completion of the treatment
Once the treatment is done, the dentist will evaluate the final result and see if any other treatment is required to fully straighten your teeth. In most cases, however, you're done—and you can go home smiling with straight teeth!
Do expect to continue wearing retainers throughout the day for the first few weeks, followed by retainers only at night to keep your teeth straight for the long term.
Conclusion
That's all you need to expect out of the Invisalign treatment process. It is an incredibly simple procedure that can straighten your teeth quickly and effectively. That said, if you still have concerns in your mind about the whole treatment, do not be afraid to consult with the dentist about it. They will answer any questions you may have and will help you understand what it takes to turn your crooked smile into a sweet and straight one.
Dental House MI is a dental practice in Ann Arbor offering preventive dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and other oral health solutions to satisfy any dental needs. If you are looking for professionals that provide Invisalign treatments, make an appointment with us today!