Everything you need to know about the Invisalign process | SmilexFor years, traditional metal braces have always been considered as the solution by people who suffer from crooked smiles, teeth gaps, and overcrowding of teeth. It’s a painful procedure that requires utmost care for eating, drinking, brushing and carrying out other regular activities. Despite the given difficulties, people opt for this procedure, thinking that wearing braces is the only option they have.
However, the wizard of technology has transcended into various walks of life, and dentistry is no different. One such by-product of the latest technologies used in dentistry is Invisalign which you can avail at best orthodontist in Pune or elsewhere.
What is Invisalign?
A contemporary alternative to traditional braces, Invisalign is a modern solution that straightens teeth without wires. It is moulded out of smooth and durable plastic, which invisibly aligns as per the shape of your teeth. Moreover, every two weeks, you will exchange your used aligners for a new set and gradually straighten your teeth to their correct positions.
Because of Invisalign, prospective patients like yourself now have access to a form of orthodontic treatment to straighten teeth without the use of metal braces. Therefore, if you have considered the use of braces, you can give Invisalign a shot.
There are four types of Invisalign – Invisalign Lite, Invisalign i7, Invisalign full and Invisalign Teen. Let’s take a detailed look at the process by which you place one of these Invisalign types of your choice.
The five-step Invisalign process
- Consult the right orthodontist – Just like you researched extensively on Invisalign and its various types, it’s imperative that you carry the same process to set up a consultation with a certified orthodontist. Their assessment will determine whether you are eligible for one of Invisalign’s versatile treatments or not. Moreover, an orthodontist, unlike a dentist, is familiar with all types of treatment. Accordingly, they can suggest the one suited for you based on their experience and training.
During the consultation, the orthodontist will take x-rays and photographs of your teeth to thoroughly examine you and determine whether you are fit for an Invisalign treatment or not. At the same time, the orthodontist will explain to you the entire process and answer all your queries as well. Since this is a major medical and financial decision, go for a doctor that has not only the right training but also someone you can trust. It will put you at ease for the entire duration of the treatment.
- Customized treatment plan – Upon saying yes to Invisalign and its subsequent treatment type, your orthodontist will build a custom plan for you. It includes digital x-rays, moulded impressions, and photographs of your teeth. Apart from that, your orthodontist will do intraoral scanning to create a 3-D virtual model of your teeth and jaw. By using these images and scans, your orthodontist will create a digital 3-D layout of your teeth and use it as a roadmap to determine different stages of teeth positioning because not all teeth can be straightened at once. Moreover, Invisalign’s software will help your orthodontist predict how your teeth will change and look after weeks, months and at the end of the treatment. It will also give a projected timeframe for your treatment’s duration.
- Your first aligners – So, how will Invisalign work for you? You will receive custom-made aligners, which will align to the desired shape of your teeth. Unlike traditional metal braces, these aligners won’t irritate your cheeks or gums and can be easily removed before meals and brushing. Moreover, your orthodontist will replace your aligners with a brand-new set once every two weeks. It’s because aligners straighten and alter the shape of your teeth, making the ones you wear useless after some time. While the first few days of a new set are less comfortable, it fits better as days pass by. This change is a clear indication that your Invisalign treatment is working!
Along with aligners, special attachments are temporarily attached on your teeth, to clip and unclip your aligners easily. Once the treatment is completed, these attachments are removed and retainers are given.
- Regular check-ups and proper hygiene – To optimize your Invisalign process, your orthodontist will ask for a check-up approximately once every six weeks to evaluate your treatment. Based on the findings, your doctor will recommend to either continue with the existing treatment plan or make alterations in it. Moreover, during these check-ups, the doctor may advise you to wear retainers post a treatment session, to keep your teeth locked in their new position. These retainers use the same technology as the aligners.
Furthermore, it’s also essential for you to professionally clean your teeth every six months to ensure your Invisalign treatment process goes smoothly. While removable aligners mean that you don’t have to worry about food getting stuck on it, it is still advisable that you keep your teeth clean as an absolute priority.
Also, during and post-treatment, maintaining proper oral hygiene is essential to keep your beautiful smile. With well-aligned and cleaner teeth, you can brush and floss easily. It will help your pearly whites stay white for a longer time.
- Get back your beautiful smile – Upon completing your Invisalign treatment, you will immediately notice a positive change in the alignment of your teeth. However, you will need to wear retainers post-treatment to give your jaw-bones time to solidify around your new teeth placements. By consistently wearing retainers in the months’ post-treatment, your teeth will gradually stop shifting and moving. It will help you revert to your beautiful smile, and encourage you to take plenty of photographs which you always shied away from!
So, for a hassle-free dental procedure to set your teeth right, choose Invisalign! Make sure you get it done from the best Orthodontist in Pune or elsewhere. It will serve you well for the rest of your life.
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