Many of us weren’t lucky enough to naturally develop a perfectly straight smile. If you have teeth that are crowded, gapped, crooked, or otherwise misaligned, there are a variety of orthodontic options available. If you aren’t fond of the idea of metal braces, Invisalign could be an excellent alternative! Continue reading to learn about the step-by-step process of getting Invisalign – from consultation to retainer.
Consultation
The first step of the Invisalign process is attending your initial consultation. At this time, your dentist will determine whether or not you are a good candidate for this treatment. Invisalign is able to address a wide variety of misalignment problems, but there are some that are more complex and require metal braces to correct. By attending a consultation, you can confirm that Invisalign is the right choice for you.
Preparation
Once your dentist determines that you are a good candidate for Invisalign, it’s time to move on to the preparation process. At this time, your dentist will take photos and X-rays of your teeth. A model of your smile is also created to craft a customized treatment plan just for you.
Getting Your Aligners
After a few weeks, you will receive your aligners, and your dentist may make some other adjustments, like adding “buttons” to your teeth. These are small, tooth-colored bumps that are made from a composite resin material that goes on the front of some of your teeth. They help to hold the aligners in place and allow for the right amount of pressure to be put on specific teeth.
Follow-Up Visits
You will need to return to the dental office on a regular basis to ensure that your teeth are moving as planned. Even with a detailed plan, your teeth can still do some unexpected things. It’s important to catch problems in their tracks so they can be corrected quickly.
Final Refinements
Once you complete your series of clean aligners, your dentist will examine your smile and see if you need any refinements. This is when you get additional trays at the end of your treatment to make some final tweaks. This way, you and your dentist can ensure that you are perfectly happy with your results.
Retainers
At the end of your Invisalign treatment, any buttons are removed, and you will switch out your clear aligners for a retainer that you will need to wear. This will look just like Invisalign trays except its purpose is to prevent your teeth from moving back to their original locations.
Traditional braces are great at addressing misalignment issues, but Invisalign has the benefit of providing you with a more comfortable, discreet orthodontic treatment. This way, you can work towards a straighter smile without metal brackets and wires!
About the Author
Dr. Tonie C. Lewis has been working in the dental field for more than 15 years! She earned her dental doctorate from the Howard University College of Dentistry where she received the Community Dentistry Award and the Academy of Esthetic Dentistry Award. She is certified in Invisalign and Laser Dentistry, and she is a proud member of the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry. To learn more about Invisalign or to schedule an appointment at her office in Allen, visit her website or call (972) 954-9728.