How does Invisalign work?
Have you ever watched your favourite celebrities in movies or on TV and wished you could have straighter teeth, but dreaded the thought of seeing metal brackets every time you looked in the mirror? You’re not alone. Fortunately, Invisalign Clear Aligners are an option for many patients.
When worn, Invisalign clear aligners are difficult to see, custom-made for your teeth, and contain no metal or wires that could poke the inside of your mouth. You'll be able to straighten your teeth discreetly while also treating a variety of dental health issues, such as:
- Underbites
- Overbites
- Crossbites
- Widely spaced teeth
- Clicking jaws
Step 1: An In-Depth Assessment & Treatment Plan
During an initial appointment, your dentist will conduct an oral exam and assessment to find out whether you're a good candidate for Invisalign treatment. If you are, a treatment plan will then be created for you to gradually shift your teeth into their correct positions.
Before beginning treatment, we’ll take X-rays to create models of your teeth. Throughout the process, we review your progress and record the movement of your teeth as they change.
Step 2: Start Wearing Your Invisalign Trays
You will receive a series of aligners for your treatment. These will be switched out every other week or so as treatment progresses. With each new aligner, your teeth will be slightly straighter than with your previous tray (your teeth should shift up to 0.25 millimetres per tray).
The aligners are made of clear plastic and worn over your teeth. They will gently and gradually move your teeth into place, following your customized treatment plan.
Once your clear aligners are in place, you must wear them for approximately 22 hours per day. You should only take them out to brush, floss, or eat. Once your final trays are removed, you'll finish the process by wearing a retainer full-time for a set period, then gradually reducing your use on a schedule determined by your dentist.
Step 3: A Straighter Smile
Invisalign can give you a more confident smile and straighter teeth (as long as you follow your dentist's instructions at all times!). Because straighter teeth are easier to clean, orthodontic treatment can improve your oral health and reduce your risk of tooth decay.
The dentists at Spackman Dental provide Invisalign to many of their patients. We can help you learn whether you would be a good candidate for treatment.