Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that aims to straighten teeth misalignment. It uses nearly invisible, removable aligners that are custom-made for each patient. This is an excellent alternative to traditional metal braces as the treatment time is much shorter, and there is less discomfort and pain. This is due to the fact that aligners are made of smooth, comfortable material without wires, brackets, and tipped sides that could trigger irritation.
How does Invisalign straighten teeth?
Your tooth doctor will provide you with aligner sets designed to gradually move your teeth into their correct placement. You have to wear your aligner trays for a minimum of 22 hours daily, then move on to the next set after two weeks. This will continue until you complete your treatment according to your personalized treatment plan.
The Invisalign procedure lasts 12 to 18 months, but it might be shorter for minor cases or longer for more serious issues. Throughout the duration of the treatment, you will have routine inspections with your dentist to track your development.
You can only remove your aligners when you wash them and when you eat, brush, and floss your teeth. Stay away from drinking hot drinks when wearing your aligners, as this may warp your aligners’ shape.
When you finish your treatment, you can maintain your straight and lovely smile by wearing a retainer provided by your dentist. This will help ensure that your teeth do not 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 oral issues, consider traditional braces as an alternative. You may visit the Artesa Dental homepage of any dental clinic to learn more about Invisalign and how it can effectively fix crooked teeth.
What is the process of Invisalign treatment?
Below is the usual process when getting this procedure:
Consultation
Your dentist will evaluate your dental problem to determine if you are qualified for Invisalign. This includes examining your teeth, gums, and jaw. It also involves a 3D scan of your mouth for an accurate evaluation. If you need a 3D dental x-ray to assess the health of your teeth before starting Invisalign treatment, search online for “dental 3d scan near me” to find a nearby dental office.
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 motions during each stage.
Making the Aligners
If you are a good candidate, the Invisalign laboratory will make your aligners based on your treatment arrangement. This process takes about 4 to 6 weeks for each set of aligners.
Receiving the Aligners and Treatment
When you obtain your first aligner set, your dentist is going to instruct you on how to use them properly. They will also schedule regular check-ups to check your progress and see if there are possible issues that may put off your treatment.
Completion of Treatment
The moment you have completed your treatment, you will be asked to wear a retainer so that your newly straightened 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, people need to wear it for several years or even throughout their lifetime.
Is Invisalign expensive?
Invisalign is relatively expensive. However, the total cost varies on a variety of variables, including the type of treatment method you need, the extent of your misalignment, the intricacy of your situation, your location and dentist, and whether you have an insurance policy. Some private insurance covers a portion of the cost of Invisalign, but it is best to consult with your insurance provider before treatment. If you are wondering how much would Invisalign treatment cost, researching the topic online is advisable.
Final Thoughts
Invisalign is a great technique to correct the alignment of misaligned teeth without the hassle of metal braces. It’s comfortable, virtually invisible, and can give you a more beautiful smile faster than traditional dental braces. However, consult your dentist before deciding because you may not be a good candidate. They will strongly recommend a more suitable option, such as standard braces or other orthodontic procedures.