Invisalign
What to Expect
If you are considering Invisalign then, as with any dental procedure, it’s always worth finding out more about what’s involved so that you know what to expect when it comes to undergoing treatment.
Choosing the right dentist
Choosing the right dentist.
Preparing your custom Invisalign plan
Once you’ve decided to go ahead with Invisalign, our dentist will start to prepare your custom plan. The process starts with digital x-rays, photos and impressions of your teeth to enable the dentist to map out the movements of each tooth throughout your treatment.
Preview your new smile
Using special Invisalign software, the dentist can predict how your smile will gradually change. More importantly, you can see on a screen just how your teeth will look at different stages of your treatment and what the end result will be. It’s hard to say how long your Invisalign treatment will take, since each case is different, although for many patients it will take around one year.
How does Invisalign work?
Your Invisalign treatment involves wearing a series of custom aligners over your teeth. They are made from clear medical-grade plastic which makes them virtually invisible. Each aligner is designed to move your teeth a set amount. Once the aligner has done its job, it is then discarded and replaced with a new aligner (the next one in the series) every one-to-two weeks.
Invisalign aligners can be removed
Because there are no sharp edges, it’s good to know that aligners won’t irritate the inside of your cheeks like traditional braces often do. More importantly, Invisalign aligners are designed to be removed for meals and brushing. For best results, however, you should wear your aligners for 20-22 hours a day.
Signs your Invisalign treatment is working
It’s important to know that each new set of aligners will feel slightly uncomfortable at first. This is because they are designed to fit your teeth in the position they should have reached at the end of the previous two-week period. So they will feel tight at first. As your teeth gradually start to move, the aligner will feel more comfortable, letting you know that your treatment is working.
Maintaining your new smile
Once your Invisalign treatment has ended, there is always a chance that your teeth could revert to their original position. Our dentists will discuss whether you need to wear a retainer to help you maintain your beautiful new smile.
