There was a time when getting braces as an older teen or an adult meant years of metal brackets, wires, and food restrictions. This is no longer the case, though! More and more people are choosing Invisalign instead of traditional braces. Invisalign is a clear orthodontic system that can provide patients with beautiful results without the pain, embarrassment, and hassle of conventional braces. If you are thinking about getting Invisalign, you’re probably wondering what to expect throughout the course of your treatment. The information in this guide will take you through the process.
- Records appointment – Before you can actually begin your Invisalign treatment, your dentist will want to schedule a preliminary appointment to take photographs, x-rays, and impressions of your teeth. Most Invisalign providers use electronic impressions, so you won’t have to deal with goopy, uncomfortable trays. This session is also a great time for you to ask any questions you may have about getting Invisalign.
- Aligner creation – Once your dentist has looked over everything from your initial appointment, he or she will okay the production of your Invisalign aligner. Throughout the manufacturing process, Invisalign will send your dentist mock-ups of your aligner trays for approval. Typically, aligners are ready to be delivered to each patient in about three weeks.
- Delivery appointment – Once your Invisalign aligners have arrived at your dentist’s office, he or she will schedule a second appointment with you. This is when the exciting stuff starts! You will be given your first aligner and your dentist will work with you to make any necessary adjustments, which may include a process known as interproximal reduction, or IPR (don’t worry, it isn’t scary!). In the rare cases where IPR is necessary, teeth are sanded down by 1/10 of a millimeter at a time. You won’t feel any pain and won’t even need to be numb. Once your dentist is satisfied with the fit of your first aligner, you’ll be sent on your way with whatever instructions he or she deems necessary in your case!
- The treatment itself – Once you get your first aligner, you will need to wear it for 22 hours per day. This will hold true for every Invisalign aligner you use until the end of your treatment. Your dentist will schedule regular check-ups to make sure you’re getting along well and that your aligners are doing their job, but you won’t need to have wires tightened or any other painful procedures. You should, however, feel free to contact your dental professional if you ever have any problems during your Invisalign treatment!
- The results – Once you are done wearing your final Invisalign aligner, you should have the smile of your dreams. You will visit your dentist once more to be fitted with retainers (only for nighttime use) and to make sure everything looks good. It’s unlikely that your dentist will have any special instructions for you once you are done with your treatment, but if he or she does tell you something specific, make sure you pay attention. You don’t want to undo all the work you’ve just done to your teeth!
If you are interested in getting Invisalign soon, contact our caring office today. We want to give you the smile you’ve always wanted and, if Invisalign can help you get there, we can’t wait to get started on your treatment! For more information, take a look at our website. You can also contact us or call us at 617-268-5638 and we are happy to answer any questions you may have!
