Invisalign: The Complete Guide

As an orthodontist with extensive experience in transforming smiles and improving oral health, I’m thrilled to share insights into one of the most innovative and sought-after orthodontic treatments available today: Invisalign.

This clear aligner system has revolutionized the field of orthodontics by offering a discreet, comfortable, and effective way to straighten teeth.

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, making them an attractive option for both adults and teens who are self-conscious about wearing braces.

What Is Invisalign

The treatment involves wearing a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners that gently shift your teeth into the desired position. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks before moving on to the next in the series, gradually achieving the final result of a beautifully aligned smile.

One of the key advantages of Invisalign is its convenience. The aligners are removable, allowing patients to eat, drink, brush, and floss with ease.

This not only facilitates better oral hygiene during treatment but also means there are no food restrictions, a common drawback of traditional braces.

On top of that, Invisalign treatment often requires fewer office visits than braces, making it a more time-efficient solution for busy individuals.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually move teeth into their correct positions, offering a less noticeable alternative to traditional metal braces. Here’s how the process works, broken down into steps:

1. Initial Consultation

The journey begins with an initial consultation with an orthodontist or dentist trained in Invisalign treatment.

During this visit, the dental professional evaluates your teeth, discusses your dental goals, and determines if you’re a good candidate for Invisalign. This stage often involves taking dental x-rays, photographs, and digital scans or physical impressions of your teeth.

2. Custom Treatment Plan

Using the information gathered during the consultation, the dental professional uses Invisalign’s proprietary software to create a precise, digital treatment plan.

This plan maps out the step-by-step transformation of your teeth from their current positions to the desired final alignment. It also allows you to see a preview of your new smile before the treatment even begins.

3. Creating Your Custom Aligners

Based on the digital treatment plan, a series of custom-made, clear aligners are manufactured specifically for your teeth.

The aligners are made from a flexible thermoplastic material called SmartTrack, which is FDA-approved and contains no BPA, BPS, latex, or gluten. Each aligner is worn for about one to two weeks before moving on to the next in the series, gradually shifting your teeth toward their final positions.

4. Wearing Your Aligners

For optimal results, you should wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day, removing them only to eat, drink anything other than water, and for brushing and flossing.

You’ll switch to a new set of aligners as directed by your treatment plan—typically every one to two weeks. Each new aligner will feel slightly different, as it’s designed to continue the process of gently moving your teeth.

5. Regular Check-ups

Throughout your treatment, you’ll have occasional check-ups with your dental professional, usually every 6 to 8 weeks, to monitor your progress and receive new sets of aligners.

Thanks to the precision planning and custom fabrication, these appointments are usually quicker and less frequent than those required for traditional braces.

6. Completion and Retention

Once you’ve gone through all your aligners, and your teeth have reached their desired positions, your treatment is complete.

To ensure your teeth don’t shift back to their original positions, you’ll likely need to wear a retainer. Invisalign offers Vivera retainers, which are custom-made using the same state-of-the-art technology.

How long does it take to straighten teeth using invisible aligners?

The duration of Invisalign treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case and how often the aligners are worn. On average, treatment can take anywhere from 6 to 18 months. Throughout the process, patients can enjoy the benefits of a less noticeable orthodontic treatment option that doesn’t significantly interfere with their daily life.

FAQ on Invisalign