A Closer Look at the Invisalign Treatment Timeline
Crooked, turned, and crowded teeth can affect the look, feel, and function of your smile. Because of the aesthetic and oral health problems associated with misaligned teeth, many patients decide to undergo orthodontic treatment.
Invisalign® has become a popular orthodontic treatment for its discretion and comfort. This system relies on a series of clear, plastic aligners to straighten the teeth.
The Invisalign treatment timeline is roughly the same as the braces treatment timeline, but is more convenient. The dentists at the Smile Center in Virginia Beach, VA, review what to expect of your Invisalign experience.
An Overview of the Invisalign Process
Invisalign treatment applies gentle pressure to the teeth using a progression of aligner trays that are made from clear, bio-compatible plastic.
These trays are customized for each patient based on digital impressions of their mouth and a computer-generated model. When worn, the trays are virtually invisible, and thanks to the smooth plastic, are very comfortable. Patients will be given a new tray to wear about every two weeks.
Step 1: Consultation
At an initial consultation, your dentist will examine the teeth to ensure that Invisalign can provide the necessary teeth-straightening results.
Invisalign is appropriate for most mild to moderate cases of tooth or bite misalignment. More severe cases may require traditional orthodontics.
If a patient is a suitable candidate for Invisalign treatment, your dentist will create a customized treatment plan. Impressions are taken of the teeth to create a 3D model of the mouth and map out treatment planning.
Step 2: Progressing Through Aligners
Invisalign aligners typically arrive within two to four weeks after treatment planning. Patients are asked to wear their aligners for at least 22 hours a day. This means the aligners should only be taken out for eating and hygiene purposes.
About every two weeks, patients will progress to a new aligner designed to gently move the teeth further into the correct position. Unlike traditional orthodontics, Invisalign aligners do not require manual adjustments or as many checkups.
How frequently you need to see your dentist to monitor your progress will depend your case and how you are progressing. Your dentist can give you a better idea of this during your consultation.
Step 3: Enjoying Your Final Results
Most patients need about 12 months to complete their Invisalign treatment, about the same amount of time as traditional orthodontic treatment.
The length of your Invisalign treatment will depend on the severity of your case, as well as your compliance in wearing the aligners for the daily minimum hours. Treatment timelines will take longer, and treatment may not work at all, if patients do not wear aligners consistently for at least 22 hours a day.
At your final appointment with your dentist, your progress will be reviewed to ensure that you have met your treatment goals. At this time, you and your dentist will also discuss how to maintain your straight teeth.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are interested in learning more about Invisalign treatment and whether it is the right tooth-aligning solution for you, reach out to us today. You can call and speak with a team member at (757) 473-8482. Or, fill out our online form and a member of our team will get back to you.
