Invisalign®️ Treatment: Process, Advantages & Aftercare
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an orthodontic tooth straightening treatment without using metal braces. Instead, it utilizes a set of custom-made, clear aligners that cover your teeth, gently pulling them into the right position with time. Since they are clear and wearable, you can take them off at will, which is less noticeable than traditional braces.
When most people want to straighten their teeth, they only think of traditional braces as the only option. However, Invisalign braces are clear and do not involve any metal brackets that affect your smile during the treatment period. During Invisalign treatment, your teeth remain comfortable and beautiful, and you get the alignment you desire in almost half the time you would go with traditional braces.
What are Invisalign Braces Made Of?
Invisalign clear aligners are made using BPA-free plastics that are far more comfortable than traditional metallic braces. They are also customized to fit and straighten your teeth, giving you the desired smile.
Before receiving your Invisalign aligners, you will discuss your smile goals with the dentist near you in a consultation appointment and what you should expect with your treatment.
The Invisalign Process
If Invisalign is the right treatment for you, the dentist in McKinney, TX, uses the examination together with x-rays to make a 3D model of your teeth that is used to customize a treatment plan. The treatment plan will determine your teeth’ shifting process and how long it will take for them to shift to the correct position.
The dentist near you sends your teeth’ 3D models to the dental lab and the x-ray picture where specialists craft your Invisalign customized aligners. Using the 3D model, you can also see the progress of how Invisalign corrects your bite issues.
When your first set of clear aligners is fit for use, you will have to come to our office to check if there need any adjustments. You must wear your aligners all day, except when eating and when brushing and flossing your teeth. This is because your aligners are removable so that you can take them off at your convenience anytime throughout the day.
Wearing aligners is easy as they fit smoothly into your daily activities. You should count two weeks after receiving the first set, then switch to the next. Initially, your aligners will tightly fit in because the aim is to move your teeth precisely, which they do after a few days. After some time, they become loose.
However, even after they become loose, switching them early is not advisable; you must complete the two weeks. This gives your teeth enough time to readjust to their new position. Switching them early messes with the treatment plan.
Afterward, you will go for an appointment with the dentist near you after every six weeks for the dentist to monitor your progress. The checkups also help determine if they need to make any adjustments to the aligners for your treatment plan.
Benefits of Invisalign Over Conventional Braces
When choosing orthodontic treatment options, it’s essential to know the advantages of Invisalign braces over orthodontic treatment.
- They are clear braces, so most people won’t notice that you are wearing them
- The teeth movement s more precise when using clear aligners than with traditional braces
- With Invisalign, it’s easier for you to maintain good oral health. You can remove the aligners during meals or when you want to brush or floss your teeth.
- Compared to traditional metal braces, Invisalign uses comfortable aligners that do not irritate the teeth or gums
- Invisalign also saves you time. You do not need frequent office visits to adjust the wire. Invisalign involves fewer checkups, has a shorter treatment time, and the results are perfect.
Invisalign Aftercare
After any orthodontic therapy, whether Invisalign or any other treatment, we recommend that you acquire and wear a retainer. Retainers are designed to keep the corrected teeth in alignment.
Without a retainer, teeth tend to slowly shift back to their original position, for which you may be required to put on aligners temporarily to readjust them. The dentist in McKinney, TX, will determine the best type of retainers appropriate to your individual needs. Call us or book an appointment to get Invisalign® in McKinney, TX.