How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign involves the wearing of customized clear trays on top and bottom teeth to move the entire smile into alignment. A few teeth are moved at a time – both tooth roots and crowns – and most trays are worn for about two weeks each. Every patient’s treatment is unique and designed to deliver optimum results efficiently. Compliance with the orthodontist’s instructions also makes all the difference in the success of Invisalign treatment.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
The average Invisalign case requires patients to wear aligners for about 12 months. Some people need more time to get a straight smile. Others have one some gaps or crooked teeth to align and only require several months of treatment. Your orthodontist will let you know from the start what kind of timeline to expect.
Does Invisalign have to be worn every day?
Yes, Invisalign must be worn every day, for 20 to 22 hours a day, throughout the entire treatment. Remove Invisalign trays too often and you run the risk of interfering with alignment success. The only time Invisalign should be taken out is during meals and snacks and when cleaning teeth and trays. With Invisalign, there are rules, but there are also brief reprieves, so if wearing the trays for most of each day seems daunting, think about conventional metal braces that don’t come off until treatment is complete.
What is Invisalign made of?
Invisalign aligners are made of very thin, flexible plastic. They are designed to snugly latch onto the teeth and are smooth so they never irritate soft tissues of the mouth. The trays are, of course, clear, and with proper daily care they will stay clear, clean, and odor-free.
Who needs Invisalign attachments?
Not every Invisalign patient needs Invisalign attachments, but many people do require these composite dots to be temporarily bonded to their teeth to anchor aligners in place as snugly as possible. The dots come in different sizes and shapes – circles, squares, triangles, and more – and may seem like they are scattered along the teeth but are strategically positioned to make aligners fully effective.
Do I have to wear a retainer after Invisalign?
Whether a patient wears Invisalign, metal braces, or otherwise, a retainer is non-negotiable. A retainer is the only way to reinforce newly shifted teeth so they stay in their new positions permanently. Though the reputation is that retainers are a nuisance, they are hardly an interruption in daily life. It’s usually only worn at bedtime, and as long as you clean the appliance regularly, your job is complete.
Will Invisalign interfere with daily life?
Invisalign is, of course, a commitment, and you will have to slightly adjust your routine to make room for taking care of Invisalign during oral hygiene and meals. However, when it comes to work, school, play, and all the rest of life, this treatment will not interfere with anything you have going on. Most people won’t even notice that you’re wearing Invisalign and you can speak and smile confidently with teeth that are looking better and better every day.
Who is the ideal Invisalign candidate?
The ideal candidate is motivated to use clear aligners, keep them safe and clean, and follow their orthodontist’s rules throughout treatment. Only your orthodontist can tell you for certain if someone is a good Invisalign candidate, but in general, there are both adolescents and adults who suit this treatment and its demands perfectly.
If you are interested in learning more about Invisalign or want to find out if you or your teen are a good candidate for treatment, schedule a consultation with Dr. Mariana Orthodontics in Monroe, WA.
