The Invisalign Process: From Consultation to Treatment and Beyond

Achieving straighter teeth has become so much easier in the past few years. Instead of the traditional fixed braces made of metal wires and brackets, a new treatment —Invisalign®— is increasingly becoming more popular.

Invisalign Explained

Invisalign is a popular brand of aligners that gradually align and straighten teeth. Instead of the traditional fixed metal braces, the aligners are clear and removable. This makes them less visible, and since you can remove them, Invisalign is much more comfortable to use. Many who are put off by metal braces find clear aligners to be one of the best alternatives.

Step-by-Step Invisalign Treatment

If you are worried or wondering what to expect during Invisalign treatment, the following briefly describes what goes through the process, from consultation to treatment and beyond.

Initial Consultation

The first step is an initial consultation with an orthodontist. During this, the orthodontist determines whether you’re a good candidate for Invisalign aligners. Invisalign only provides mild and moderate adjustments, so this treatment might not be for you if you have extremely misaligned or crooked teeth. They also look into other considerations regarding the treatment, such as insurance, during consultation.

Custom Treatment Plan

Once you’re declared a suitable candidate and your finances are in order, the orthodontist begins customizing your treatment plan. For this, they will be taking pictures, X-rays, and molds of your teeth. The orthodontist uses all the information collected about your teeth for a 3D computer model forecasting how your teeth will move to alignment. They will use it to further discuss the treatment according to your teeth’s condition.

First Tray Fitting

After a month or so, you will get your first Invisalign aligner. You will have to pick up the braces at your orthodontist’s office, where they will give you instructions and advice on how to wear and take care of them. The Invisalign will feel tight and uncomfortable the first time you use them but should feel better after several days.

New Aligners Every 14 Days

With Invisalign, you don’t wear only one aligner. You will wear several of them – a new set will be delivered every two weeks. As the weeks pass, you will notice that your teeth become straighter and more aligned, courtesy of the new aligners. For the best results, you must wear your Invisalign for about 22 hours daily. Ideally, you should only remove the aligners when you eat, brush, and floss your teeth.

Follow-Up Appointments

The treatment doesn’t stop with just wearing the aligners. Your orthodontist will track your progress, and you must visit for follow-up appointments. There may be some final adjustments to ensure you achieve your dream-perfect smile.

Straighter Teeth

After some time, your teeth will straighten and align. The final results differ in each case, depending on how severe the misalignment of your teeth is. However, you can expect straighter, more beautiful teeth over time if you wear your Invisalign aligner as prescribed.

For more information on the Invisalign aligner process, please contact John K. See, DDS, at (805) 920-8600 or visit our office in Camarillo, California.