Invisalign is an innovative teeth straightening system that uses a series of clear, plastic alignment trays to straighten your teeth over time. A viable alternative to traditional metal braces, most people complete treatment in less than two years. Here is what to know about Invisalign.
How Invisalign Works
Treatment with Invisalign begins with a consultation with an experienced Invisalign dental provider. During this initial consultation, your dentist will ensure that you are free from active gum disease and that you have all of your adult teeth. They will examine your mouth, teeth, and gums to confirm overall oral health. They will also let you know if Invisalign will work for you. Fortunately, for most people, Invisalign will straighten your teeth just as well as metal braces. Some complex orthodontic conditions may require metal braces.
If you’re approved for Invisalign treatment, a series of painless digital scans of your teeth and mouth will be used to create a 3D digital impression. Our dentists will then use specialized software to create a treatment plan that will gradually shift your teeth into place. You’ll be invited to view the digital model in our office, showing the gradual alignment transition, and what you can expect your smile to look like after you complete treatment.
After finalizing your treatment plan, your discreet, comfortable, removable alignment trays will be created. You’ll then begin wearing your alignment trays most hours of the day. Invisalign trays should only be removed when you’re eating or engaging in activities that have a higher risk of injury to your face (football, rugby, or other sports requiring a mouth guard).
You’ll wear each series of alignment trays for a few weeks, progressing through each new set of trays, on a schedule we set for you. Many patients begin noticing results in as few as six weeks.
Best Practices While Undergoing Invisalign Treatment
While you’re straightening your teeth with Invisalign, there are some best practices to follow to ensure you get outstanding results.
- Clean your aligners
One of the key benefits that Invisalign offers is discretion. The alignment trays are designed to be so subtle that most people won’t even know you’re wearing them. However, to keep them nearly invisible, it is important to clean them every day. Failing to keep your trays clean can lead to dulling or cloudiness. It’s a good practice to clean your aligners at the same time you brush and floss your teeth each day. - Wear the aligners most of the time
Although your aligners are removable, you should plan to wear them at least 20-22 hours per day to stay on schedule with your treatment plan. They should only be removed when you’re eating or engaging in a high-contact activity. It is not recommended that you leave them out for long periods of time. - Brush and floss your teeth regularly
Invisalign allows you to brush and floss normally, which is challenging with traditional braces. So take advantage of this opportunity to maintain excellent oral health while straightening your smile.
Schedule a Consultation for Invisalign in Huntersville
At The Smile Architects in Huntsville, we are proud to be a Gold Invisalign Provider, signifying our extensive experience in Invisalign treatment. If you’re interested in correcting crooked, uneven, crowded, slanted, or gapped teeth, Invisalign may be right for you. For some individuals, Invisalign can even correct a misaligned bite. Schedule a no-obligation consultation today with our friendly, experienced team of Invisalign providers in Huntersville, NC: 704-875-1621