Today, Invisalign® has an excellent reputation for creating well-aligned smiles. Many patients who shy away from traditional orthodontic braces prefer this system because it provides discretion and comfort while carrying no food restrictions.
Some patients assume that being fitted for Invisalign is a lengthy process. However, an Invisalign fitting takes only one straightforward appointment. This blog provides our guide to Invisalign fittings and answers your questions about the process.
Step 1: Consultation
The first step in the Invisalign process is a meeting with your orthodontist. We will go over all the aspects of this system and explain how the aligners change your smile over time. We will thoroughly evaluate your tooth alignment and bite. Finally, we will determine your eligibility for treatment.
Who is Eligible?
Most patients with good oral health and hygiene habits can benefit from Invisalign. However, if you have severe malocclusion, jaw formation issues, or severe dental bite problems, traditional braces may be your best choice.
How Does it Work?
The Invisalign process involves creating a series of clear, plastic aligners that apply gentle pressure to the teeth and encourage movement. As you progress through the series, you usually change your aligners every 1 to 2 weeks. At the close of treatment, you will feel great about sharing your smile.
How Long Does it Take?
Usually, Invisalign treatment takes about 18 to 24 months to complete. If you have minor alignment issues, treatment could be as brief as six months.
Commitment Needed
The system requires a high level of commitment and motivation to make the most of your treatment. You will remove your aligners only to eat, drink, and care for your oral hygiene. You will need to clean them at least once a day and ensure they do not warp or stain. If you damage or lose an aligner, contact us immediately for a replacement.
Digital Imaging
After you decide on Invisalign, the next step is digital imaging. This system needs no gooey impression material. The iTero intraoral scanner captures digital images of your hard and soft tissues to ensure a perfect fit. The device moves comfortably around the teeth, allowing the product to be customized.
Model Creation
Your orthodontist will design your aligners using specialized CAD/CAM software. They plan the movement of each tooth over time, always keeping the goal in mind.
Transmitting Designs to the Laboratory
Next, your orthodontist submits the designs to Invisalign. Their premier dental laboratory will use highly advanced SmartTrack plastic to create your aligner series.
After Your Invisalign Fitting
When the finished aligners arrive a few weeks later, you'll be able to take them home and start your treatment. Get ready to see your smile in a new light.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign
What makes Invisalign so popular today?
- Clinically Tested: Invisalign has been on the market since 1997 and has been the subject of several clinical studies that have touted its safety and performance.
- Discreet: The system is discreet and comfortable. It will not draw unwanted attention like metal braces, and it allows patients to finish their treatment in private.
- Comfortable: Our aligners fit smoothly over your teeth. They do not have sharp metal brackets and wires to irritate tender oral tissue. The aligners create constant, gentle pressure, and patients do not experience uncomfortable adjustments.
- Improves Self-Confidence: When you have an even, attractive smile, you will feel more inclined to share it. Smiling more lifts your mood and gives others a positive impression. You will feel more relaxed and confident in social or work situations.
- Fits Your Busy Schedule: We understand that our patients have bustling daily lives. With fewer follow-up appointments, Invisalign will fit easily into your routine.
Why is it ideal to receive Invisalign from a qualified orthodontist?
More general dentists than ever before have taken training courses to prescribe clear aligner treatment. While general dentists may do an excellent job fitting and maintaining your aligners, an orthodontist has a deeper understanding of tooth movement and creating an ideal smile. AN orthodontist will also steer you toward a different treatment if Invisalign would not be as effective, given your oral health and alignment challenges.
Our team at Hass Family Orthodontics provides highly experienced clear aligner treatment to adults and teens in the Conover, NC, community. If you are searching for an alternative to traditional braces, Invisalign may be your best solution. Please get in touch with us and schedule your consultation today!