If you or a family member has misaligned teeth, you may be considering some form of orthodontic treatment to correct them. What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a type of clear aligner therapy used to gradually straighten teeth over time. These aligners are made from a smooth, BPA-free plastic that is molded to fit comfortably over your teeth.
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign doesn't use metal wires or brackets; instead, it works by applying gentle, controlled pressure to move teeth into their ideal position.
One of the top advantages of Invisalign is its virtually invisible appearance. Because they're made of transparent material, most people won't even notice you're wearing them.
This makes Invisalign especially popular among teens and adults who want to improve their smile without drawing attention to their orthodontic treatment.
Invisalign aligners are also removable, which gives them a major edge in terms of convenience. You can take them out while eating, drinking (anything besides water), brushing, and flossing.
This not only allows for a more comfortable lifestyle but also promotes better oral hygiene since there's no hardware to brush around.
However, it's important to note that Invisalign may not be for everyone. Severe alignment issues may still require traditional braces. It's important to consult with an experienced Invisalign dentists like the team at Riverwind Dental to determine if you're a candidate.
Invisalign Treatment Process
The Invisalign process is simple and minimally invasive, but it requires commitment and consistency. The average Invisalign treatment can range from six to 18 months depending on the severity of the case.
Appointment Session
Your Invisalign journey begins with a comprehensive consultation. During this visit, our team will evaluate your dental health, take digital X-rays, photographs, and 3D scans of your teeth.
This allows us to determine whether Invisalign is a good fit, and if so, to begin mapping out your treatment plan.
The Molding Process
Using the scans and imaging, we will create a series of custom aligners designed to move your teeth step by step. The 3D models also allow us to show you a virtual preview of your future smile.
This allows you to see the expected results before treatment even begins!
Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks before moving on to the next set in the series. If necessary, we may add small tooth-colored attachments to certain teeth to help guide movement more precisely.
Aftercare Follow-ups
Throughout your treatment, you'll have occasional check-ins at our office to ensure your teeth are moving as expected. These visits are typically less frequent than those required for braces adjustments, and many patients appreciate the flexibility.
At each visit, our Invisalign dentists will review your progress and provide your next series of aligners. If any issues arise, such as aligners not fitting properly or slow tooth movement, we'll make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
How Do I Clean My Invisalign Aligners?
Maintaining clean aligners is key to both your oral health and the success of your Invisalign treatment.
Here are some quick tips:
| • | Remove aligners before eating or drinking (except for water). |
| • | Brush your aligners gently using a soft toothbrush and clear, unscented soap. Avoid toothpaste, which can be abrasive. |
| • | Rinse them thoroughly with lukewarm water. |
| • | Store aligners in a protective case when not in use to prevent damage or contamination. |
| • | Brush and floss your teeth before reinserting aligners to prevent trapping bacteria. A clean mouth and clean aligners mean a healthier, more effective treatment experience. |
How Do I Wear Invisalign?
For optimal results, Invisalign aligners must be worn at least 22 hours a day. This means you should only remove them while eating, brushing, or drinking anything besides water.