Over the past few years, more and more people have realised how easy it is to straighten crooked or misaligned teeth at any age.
If you are thinking about getting straighter teeth as an adult, Invisalign could be the ideal solution. In this month’s blog we answer some of the common questions about the Invisalign process, to help you decide whether it could be right teeth straightening treatment for you.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an innovative teeth straightening technique. Invisalign aligners are completely transparent, and custom made to gradually straighten your teeth without using any metal wires or brackets. Your aligners can discreetly correct several different orthodontic issues to give you a balanced, even smile in as little as three months.
The aligners look like clear, flexible retainers and are removable, so you can take them out when eating or brushing your teeth.
The Invisalign Process in 5 Steps
Knowing what to expect when you choose to have Invisalign will help you to decide if it is the right route for you. In just five steps you can have a beautiful smile.
Your Initial Appointment
At your first appointment, your dentist will study your mouth and talk to you about your hopes for your smile. Your dentist advise you on whether Invisalign is a treatment you should consider. Some people may not be suitable for this type of teeth alignment process. If that is the case, your dentist will talk through your other options. If you are a candidate for Invisalign, you will discuss the treatment protocol, costs, and estimated treatment length.
Moulding Process
The next step is the digital moulding process. Digital scans, photographs, and x-rays create an accurate model of your mouth and teeth. These are sent to the Invisalign laboratory for your custom aligner trays to be created.
Fitting the First Tray
When your Invisalign trays are ready, it is time to return for your pick-up. Your dentist will check if your aligners fit, and with your trays fitted, and your aftercare program clearly explained, you are ready to go!
Your Follow-Up Appointments
4-6 weeks after your first tray is fitted, it is time to return to the dentist. Your dentist will check your tooth movements, and tray fit. You won’t need to see the dentist each time you change to a new aligner but will need to attend for appointments approximately every six weeks so the dentist can assess how your treatment is progressing. If your treatment is not progressing as planned, you may need a new digital scan to order an additional set of aligners.
Straighter Teeth!
After a period of time, your teeth will be straighter. The results always depend on the severity of misalignment to start with, but if worn as prescribed, you are guaranteed to have straighter teeth over time.
Every person has an individual experience with Invisalign, and the treatment times will vary.
It all depends on how severe your teeth misalignment is to start with. It also depends on your compliance -the longer you wear the trays the faster it works. Adolescents may see faster results than adults due to their continuing growth.
We always recommend that a longer-term retainer to be worn at night to stop teeth from becoming crooked again.
Find out If Invisalign Is Right for You
Now that you know what to expect from the Invisalign process, it should seem like a less daunting procedure. You are bound to have a lot more questions about it, though. Everyone does! Call Ringmer Dental on 01273 813898to find out if Invisalign is right for you.