Invisalign helps patients with misaligned or cooked teeth achieve the straight, perfect smile they desire - without the hassle of metal braces. These clear aligners are molded to fit your individual needs and can be removed for cleaning, eating, and when you brush your teeth. Not to mention, they are virtually unnoticeable to others, so you don't have to feel self-conscious about metal bars on your teeth.
Invisalign is perfect for adults who wish to correct their smile or teenagers heading back to school. Whether you are considering this treatment for yourself or for someone else, below is the treatment process you can expect.
1. Initial consultation with your dentist. He or she will speak with you in detail in order to determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign treatment. If your dentist decides it is right for you, he will discuss what problems you would like to correct and any other concerns you may have.
2. Set up a treatment plan. Your dentist will take pictures, x-rays and impressions of your teeth and bite; this will help decide how long your treatment should be and how your teeth will shift throughout the treatment. For most adults, the average treatment takes around a year, though this will vary from patient to patient.
3. Receive your aligners. Based on the customized plan your dentist comes up with, you will be given a series of clear aligners made just for you. They are made of a BPA-free plastic that doesn't irritate the mouth like traditional braces. These should be worn at all times, other than when you eat and brush and floss your teeth.
4. Switch aligners every two weeks. Around every two weeks (it may differ for your unique treatment plan) you will wear a new set of aligners as your teeth shift, which advances you to the next stage of treatment. Throughout your treatment, you will need to visit your dentist to make sure everything is moving as planned. Wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day to get the most effective results.
5. Smile! Once you are finished with your final set of aligners, your treatment is complete. See your dentist so he can recommend any follow-up treatment, such as a retainer. Smile in the mirror and enjoy your new, beautiful smile!
Dr. Peter Tomaselli at Chicago Smile Design is ranked in the top 1% of Invisalign dentists in the United States. Schedule a consultation to get the smile you've always wanted!
Courtesy of Invisalign
