How Invisalign Works & Things To Know Before Getting It

How Invisalign Works & Things To Know Before Getting It.

November 10, 2022
Orthodontics

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that straightens teeth without the help of braces. The convenience of this treatment has given it popularity in recent years. The braces are clear and custom-made for the wearers. Invisalign can assist in the treatment of the same orthodontic issues that dental braces can. 

Invisalign may be recommended by our orthodontist to correct:

  • Crowded Teeth
  • Crooked Teeth
  • Teeth that are gapped and spaced
  • Certain bite issues, such as an overbite, open bite, underbite, or crossbite

How Does Invisalign Work? 

  • First Consultation

The first step to getting Invisalign braces is to consult your orthodontist. If you qualify for Invisalign, your procedure can move forward. Orthodontists will discuss the process, how invisalign works, and the cost of continuing your treatment before affirming your invisalign in Phoenix.

  • X-Rays And 3-D Scan

After you’ve decided to proceed with treatment, X-rays will most likely be taken during your initial consultation.

X-rays and 3-D digital impressions of your mouth, teeth, and face from various angles create a detailed layout of your mouth which you can see on the monitor screen & dental work will be based on it.

The Orthodontics will get a good idea of what they are working with based on these images. The final step in the process is to take impressions of your teeth to the lab to customize your invisalign aligners.

  • First Fitting

The process to create invisalign aligners takes about 4-5 weeks. Once the orthodontists receive the aligners, your treatment can begin. The aligners are made from your impressions and should feel snug at first. The orthodontist will check the fit, and ask how you feel. If any changes are to be made, they will be done at this stage.

The orthodontist will review the fit. They’ll probably ask how the trays feel, if you can feel any movement or if they’re uncomfortable. It is completely normal for your new invisalign braces to feel strange in your mouth at this point. They should be tight but not painful, as they need to be strong enough to start the realignment process.

  • Follow-Up Consultations

Every one to two weeks, the invisalign aligners will be changed. This time may be extended if the teeth have not moved to the proper position. Each new aligner will be designed to be the next stage in your teeth’s movement, guiding them to the desired alignment goal.

Things To Know Before Getting An Invisalign 

Invisalign may sound low-maintenance, but taking proper care of these aligners can ensure your teeth move to their position without any hindrance.

Avoid Sugary, Colored & Acidic drinks 

Foods that are particularly chewy or sticky should be avoided. The substance may cause damage to the invisalign system, halting the teeth-straightening process.

Foods that should be avoided are:-

  • Hard Foods like popcorn, and jawbreakers
  • Candies that stick to your teeth
  • Coffee, Tea, and Colored Wine
  • Fizzy Drinks like Soda

Avoid Smoking 

The nicotine and tar present in cigarettes can stain invisalign aligners to yellow or brown. This makes them visible and can also harm their structure.

Be Patient With The Results 

Patients can expect to see the results of their invisalign aligners in as little as a few weeks. Many factors influence the duration of the treatment to show results. For example, how crowded the teeth are, the size of the gap, the patient’s age, and other factors.

You need to wear invisalign aligners for about 12 to 18 months.

Should Be Cleaned Regularly 

Cleaning invisalign aids in the removal of any accumulated food, debris, and bacteria during the day. If food is stuck between your aligners and teeth, bacteria can develop, and cause decay. It is best to clean them twice a day just like your teeth. 

Invisalign Might Affect Your Speech 

Just like traditional wire braces, invisalign can cause difficulty in making certain sounds when used for the first time. It is most noticeable when making the “s,” “sh,” or “z” sounds. Any effects they may have on your speech are generally minor. This habit can get better with time.

Use Of Retainers After Invisalign Treatment 

After invisalign treatment, you will need to wear retainers. Orthodontic retainers hold your teeth in place, while the new bone is formed. It is best not to avoid this step, as it can cause misalignment of your jawbones.

Invisalign Treatment Aftercare 

Regular Cleaning

Cleaning invisalign aligners help maintain their clarity. Using a soft-bristled brush with fluoride toothpaste is a great way to clean your aligners. Additionally, it is advised to keep them in case when not in use.

Eat Without Invisalign 

Generally, you are supposed to take out the invisalign aligners while eating. The aligners are not designed to withstand the pressure of biting and chewing. The appliances must always be removed before eating anything, whether it is a small snack or a large meal. Otherwise, you are at risk of breaking the aligners and delaying your treatment.

Wear Retainers 

Retainers help strengthen your gums and jawbone, which are manipulated by the invisalign aligners. This is to avoid upward or downward growth of the jawbones. It is necessary to wear retainers for 3 to 5 weeks.

Wear For The Prescribed Amount Of Time. 

You are required to wear invisalign aligners for about 20 to 22 hours a day. It takes as long as 2 years, on average, to get the desired results. Wearing them regularly will ensure your treatment proceeds in a timely manner, and provides optimum results.

Get Your Invisalign In Phoenix

Invisalign not only improves the structure of your teeth, but it also affects your confidence. Contact Highland Dental Studio in Phoenix, AZ for the best invisalign treatment for your teeth. Our qualified orthodontists in Phoenix, AZ, will attend to all of your requirements and provide you with the best solution!