Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that aims to straighten out teeth misalignment. It utilizes nearly unnoticeable, detachable aligners that are tailor-made for each patient. This is an excellent substitute for traditional metal braces as the treatment time is much shorter, and there is less discomfort and pain. This is because the aligners are smooth, comfy material without wires, brackets, and sharp edges that might trigger irritation.
How does Invisalign straighten teeth?
Your dentist will give you aligner sets designed to slowly move your teeth into their correct position. You have to wear your aligner trays for at least 22 hours daily; after that, proceed to the next set after two weeks. This will continue till you complete your treatment according to your customized treatment plan.
The Invisalign procedure usually lasts for 12 to 18 months, but it might be shorter for mild cases or longer for more serious problems. During the treatment, you will certainly have regular inspections with your dentist to track your development.
You can only remove your aligners when you clean them and when you eat, brush, and floss your teeth. Avoid drinking hot drinks when using your aligners, as this may warp your aligners’ shape.
When you complete your treatment, you can maintain your straight and beautiful smile by wearing a retainer provided by your dentist. This will help ensure that your teeth don’t return to their original misaligned positions. It’s worth noting that Invisalign only helps address mild to moderate teeth misalignment, crowded and crooked teeth, and bite problems.
If you have severe dental issues, consider traditional dental braces as an alternative. On the other hand, if you have misaligned teeth, you may learn more about why Invisalign is the best method to correct this type of oral issue by visiting a dentist’s Artesa dental website.
What is the process of Invisalign treatment?
Below is a typical process when getting this procedure:
Consultation
Your dentist will evaluate your oral problem to determine if you are eligible for Invisalign. This includes checking out your teeth, gums, and jaw. It also involves a 3D scan of your mouth for an accurate evaluation. See more here about the importance of receiving a 3D digital x-ray scan of your teeth before getting Invisalign.
Designing the Treatment Plan
Your dentist will create a treatment plan that considers the structure of your teeth and any underlying concerns. This includes creating digital models of your teeth and their movements at the time of each stage.
Making the Aligners
If you are a good candidate, the Invisalign lab will make your aligners based on your treatment arrangement. This process takes around 4 to 6 weeks for each set of aligners.
Receiving the Aligners and Treatment
When you obtain your first aligner set, your dentist will advise you on how to wear them properly. They will also schedule regular examinations to check your progress and see if there are potential issues that may delay your treatment.
Completion of Treatment
Once you have completed your treatment, you will be asked to wear a retainer to ensure that your newly aligned teeth will not return to their original position. You may wear your retainer for at least twenty-two hours a day for six months, then only during the night in the following six months before you finally stop wearing it. Sometimes, patients require to use it for several years or even throughout their lifetime.
Is Invisalign expensive?
Invisalign is relatively expensive. But the total Invisalign cost varies on a variety of factors, including the type of treatment you need, the extent of your misalignment, the complexity of your case, your specific location and dentist, and whether you have insurance. Some private insurance covers a part of the cost of Invisalign, but it is best to consult your insurance company before treatment.
Final Thoughts
Invisalign is an excellent technique to correct the alignment of misaligned teeth without the hassle of metal braces. It’s comfortable, virtually undetectable, and can give you a more beautiful smile faster than traditional braces. However, consult your dentist before making a decision because you may not be a good candidate. They will strongly recommend a more suitable alternative, such as standard braces or other orthodontic procedures.