How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign is an advanced dental treatment that straightens or realigns teeth using a computer-generated mold. Virtually invisible braces (hence, the name ‘invis’-align) are prepared for the patient, which they have to wear to get their teeth straightened. The result is a beautiful smile, which they can flaunt confidently, without any inhibitions.

Wondering how does Invisalign work? We have got you covered. The entire process entails various steps. Here is the detail:

Initial Consultation

During the initial consultation, the doctor discusses in detail the Invisalign process with the patient. All the pros and cons of Invisalign and other details are discussed in this session. You can also inquire the doctor how much Invisalign costs to manage your budget accordingly.

The doctor will also take your x-rays along with photographs of your teeth and face from different angles during this session. This is done to create a detailed map of the patient’s mouth mechanics. In some cases, a lateral cephalometric x-ray may also be required. Lastly, the impressions of the impact teeth are taken.

Preparatory Work

In some cases, dentists carry out preparatory work before going ahead with the actual process. This includes applying composite patches to each tooth. The function of these patches is to allow Invisalign aligners to grip onto the tooth & move it. These patches are removed at the end of the process. This, however, is not compulsory and varies from patient to patient, depending on their teeth condition.

The requirement for interproximal reduction also comes under the preparatory work for Invisalign. Some patients, who have a ‘crowded’ mouth, require a higher amount of interproximal reduction.

First Fitting

As the name implies, clear aligners are fitted into the mouth for the first time during this session. These aligners are modeled according to the impressions that were taken during the initial consultation. However, they may feel tight at first.

Don’t feel stressed if the dentist tries multiple molds. It is a standard process undertaken to ensure the aligners fit onto the teeth perfectly. A little discomfort or tightness is expected, but if you feel unbearable pain, do not hesitate in speaking to your dentist.

Change of Invisalign Braces

It is important to note that your Invisalign braces will change from time to time. The actual time after which they are changed is decided by your dentist. The process of fitting new aligners is termed as “phase”, and it reflects the “movement of the teeth” towards the desired alignment outcome.

Movement of Teeth With the Help of Invisalign

As the basic purpose of using is to align your teeth and make your smile perfect. In simple words, your teeth will move from their original irregular position to new ones where all of them will be aligned. When you start this treatment, you have to wear different invasions after regular intervals.

In actuality, Invisalign work by putting pressure on your teeth which moves them to new positions without any pain. However, specific Invisalign is required to move specific teeth. Sometimes you need to wear them for several weeks just to move a single tooth.

Material of Invisalign

Invisalign is usually made of high-grade plastic. Usually, medical-grade thermoplastic is used to make aligners. Thermoplastic is multilayered to make them durable even when you chew something hard. Apart from being durable, the material is very smooth as well. This property makes aligners comfortable for you. Aligners will not irritate as they are soft and you can wear them even during sleep.

How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?

The length or duration of this treatment will vary from person to person. The reason behind this is pretty simple. Not everyone’s teeth are of the same nature and structure. So the duration of treatment will vary. For example, if you have one or two teeth that are not aligned then you will have to wear only one or two types of Invisalign and your teeth will align really quickly.

However, if your teeth have some extra gaps or are overly crowded, then you will have to take this treatment for a longer duration.

For How Much Time You Should Wear Invisalign Each Day?

It is suggested to wear them for the whole day. You should only take them off when you have to brush your teeth or eat something. Wear them even when you are sleeping. Don’t worry, they are super comfortable and will not disturb your sleep. Apart from that if you are dealing with some sensitivity issues, you can wear them during eating as well. If you feel your Invisalign is loosening or painful, contact your dentist immediately.

Is Invisalign Worth it?

Yes, it certainly is, particularly, when you compare Invisalign vs braces. There are many benefits of Invisalign. But the fact that these aligners are completely invisible tops all of them. You may feel uncomfortable at first, but this discomfort gradually goes away as your mouth adjusts to these aligners.

If you are looking to get Invisalign in Seattle from a skilled dentist, along with satisfactory and long-term results, then call or visit Sue Vetter Clinic today.

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