What You Should Know About the Invisalign Process

Smile On Us • January 18, 2020

Are you looking to learn more about the Invisalign process? We've got everything you need to know here.

There are 327.2 million people living in America, and roughly one-third of them hate their smile.

If you’re one of the millions of people struggling with crooked, gapping, overcrowding teeth, or just don’t love something about your smile, Invisalign can help.

It’s time to stop untagging yourself from Facebook photos, stop covering your mouth when you laugh, and start showing off those pearly whites.

Read on to learn how the Invisalign process can help you transform your smile, because, in the words of Tom Wilson, “a smile is happiness found right under your nose.”

What is Invisalign

Many people never get the smile of their dreams simply because they’re embarrassed to wear bulky, metal braces. Invisalign braces give the opportunity to straighten your smile without anyone noticing.

Through a series of clear retainers, Invisalign will slowly straighten your smile to perfection.

6 Easy Steps to Loving Your Smile

So, how does the Invisalign process work? We’ve broken down the entire process into 6 easy steps, so you can know the ins and outs before you take the plunge.

1. The consultation

The Invisalign process begins with your orthodontist.

The good news is that your initial consultation won’t involve any poking or prodding, so those with dental anxiety can rest easy. Your orthodontist will simply perform a quick examination on your teeth to determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign braces.

Be sure to ask your orthodontist if they are certified and trained to work with Invisalign braces, as not all dentists will be. You’ll also want to bring your insurance card and any information about your dental history.

2. Personalized Treatment Plan

Once your orthodontist approves you for Invisalign you can get started on a personalized treatment plan.

You will work closely with your orthodontist, discussing your outcome expectations, how long the process will likely last, and how much it’s going to cost.

Your first step in the treatment plan will likely be a cleaning, just to make sure your teeth are in tiptop condition and to reduce any unnecessary risks.

3. Impression - Mold - Digitize

Next, it’s time to take impressions of your teeth. Your orthodontist can do this one of two ways:

The first way is through a traditional mold. Your orthodontist may use a clay-like substance to create a mold of your teeth, which is then sent to an Invisalign specialist.

The other option is to create a digital impression using x-rays and high definition photos.

Both options are widely practiced by orthodontists.

4. Revisions

Once your impressions reach the Invisalign specialist, they will use special software to create a step-by-step digital roadmap that aligns with your treatment plan. The Invisalign specialist will work closely with your orthodontist, sending information back-and-forth until the perfect plan is created.

Once the revisions are complete, the Invisalign specialist will 3-D print several Invisalign retainers that are customized just for you.

5. Fitting Your First Invisalign Retainer

Once your Invisalign retainers make it back to your orthodontist, you’ll need to go in for your first fitting.

Some people experience discomfort during their first fitting, as the retainer may put pressure on your teeth and gums. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers before your appointment if you’re concerned about having any discomfort.

6. Follow Up

Each Invisalign retainer will be used for about two weeks. After every two weeks, you will get a new retainer, slowly straightening your teeth a little more each time.

Since Invisalign isn’t a one and done process, you’ll need to have frequent follow-ups with your orthodontist. Depending on your treatment plan, you may need to follow up every 6 to 8 weeks.

FAQs About The Invisalign Process

Still have questions about the Invisalign process? Take a look at some of these frequently asked questions.

Will It Hurt?

The consultation and molding process are completely pain-free. Unfortunately, each time you step into a new Invisalign retainer you may feel some discomfort.

Since each retainer is working to straighten your teeth a little more each time, you may feel pressure or discomfort in new areas. The intensity and duration of the discomfort can vary from person to person.

Contact your orthodontist if over-the-counter painkillers aren’t controlling your discomfort, as you may need to adjust your treatment plan.

Do You Have to Sleep With Invisalign Retainers?

No, you don’t have to sleep with your retainers all night.

In order to reap the full benefit of each Invisalign retainer, you’ll need to wear them around 22 hours per day, leaving you plenty of time for beauty rest. Removing them before bed will ensure that you’re not losing sleep over any discomfort.

How Long Does the Process Take?

Invisalign braces often take less time than traditional braces. Common Invisalign treatments can take anywhere from 12 to 18 months, however, this varies from person to person.

What About Brushing and Flossing?

A common problem with traditional braces is not being able to brush and floss thoroughly and easily. Invisalign takes away the struggle, as the retainers are specially made so that they are easily removable. You can simply take out your retainer when it’s time to brush.

Ready to Love Your Smile?

After years of debating whether you should go for braces and fix your teeth, it’s time to take the plunge.

The Invisalign process is the perfect option for those who don’t want to walk around with a mouthful of painful and ugly metal.

Contact an orthodontist today to schedule a consultation and take one step closer to having the smile you’ve always deserved.

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