The global orthodontics market reached $6.73 billion in 2021 and could grow to $26.35 billion by 2029. More people are improving the appearance of their smiles with orthodontic treatment. Instead of choosing traditional metal braces, however, consider Invisalign aligners.
Invisalign treatment can straighten your smile without metal wires and brackets. Not sure if clear aligners are right for you?
Read on to learn everything you need to know with this Invisalign treatment guide today!
The Consultation
Before beginning treatment with Invisalign, schedule a consultation appointment at your local orthodontist’s office. They can determine if you’re an ideal candidate for treatment using Invisalign. Otherwise, they might recommend other orthodontic treatment options.
You’re likely an ideal candidate for Invisalign if you have orthodontic issues like a(n):
- Underbite
- Crossbite
- Gap
- Overcrowding
- Open bite
- Overbite
During the consultation appointment, your orthodontist will take a scan of your teeth. The scan will help you visualize how Invisalign can improve your smile. You can see an image of how your teeth will appear after treatment.
Reviewing these images can help you maintain realistic expectations about the treatment’s outcome.
If your orthodontist determines you’re an ideal candidate for treatment, they can use your scans to create your clear aligners.
The Benefits
During your consultation appointment, talk to your orthodontist about potential Invisalign benefits you can experience. Weighing the pros and cons will help you make an informed choice as you review your treatment options.
One of the top benefits of clear aligners is discretion. No one will notice you’re wearing your Invisalign trays. The aligners are made of clear plastic, making them less obvious than traditional metal braces.
You won’t have to feel self-conscious about wearing your aligners in social settings.
In fact, Invisalign treatment can benefit your self-esteem and self-image. After treatment, you can show off your straight, stunning smile with confidence. The confidence boost you’ll experience can benefit your daily life.
You might feel more prepared to take risks in social settings, such as asking someone out on a date or going for a promotion.
Invisalign benefits your oral health as well. Treatment will close any gaps in your smile. It will also straighten your teeth.
Both can reduce your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Improving your smile now could help you avoid oral health issues in the future.
With traditional metal braces, you’ll have to avoid certain foods. With treatment using Invisalign, you’ll remove your aligners to eat. You won’t have to limit yourself to specific foods as a result.
Talk to your orthodontist about these Invisalign benefits to determine if clear aligners are right for you.
Your Trays
Once your orthodontist takes scans of your smile, they’ll send them to a lab to create your clear aligners. You’ll schedule a follow-up appointment to receive your aligners and start your treatment process.
Your clear aligners will be custom-made to fit around your teeth.
During the duration of your treatment, you’ll switch aligners every one to two weeks. Each pair of aligners will bring your teeth closer together, closing gaps between your teeth.
You’ll need to take care of your aligners to avoid staining and discoloration. For example, you should brush and rinse your aligners when you remove them for meals. Avoid soaking your aligners in mouthwash, which can dye the plastic.
Instead, gently brush your aligners under lukewarm water. Avoid hot or cold water, which can warp the plastic. The aligners won’t fit properly, delaying your treatment plan.
Treatment
During the span of your Invisalign treatment, you’ll need to wear your aligners during the day and while you sleep. Remove your aligners to eat, brush your teeth, or floss. Make sure to keep your aligners in their case during meals.
Don’t place your aligners in a napkin. You might mistake them for trash and toss them out.
Brush and floss your teeth after meals to remove food particles and bacteria. Otherwise, food particles can get trapped between your teeth and aligners. Plaque can form, increasing your risk of tooth decay.
You might feel some discomfort when you first begin wearing your aligners. Discomfort is normal. It can take a moment for your teeth and gums to adjust to the aligners.
If you continue experiencing discomfort after a few weeks, talk to your orthodontist.
The duration of your treatment plan can vary based on the severity of your orthodontic issues. Talk to your orthodontist to determine your treatment timeline.
Effectiveness
To ensure your treatment is effective, you’ll need to wear your aligners for 22 hours every day. In one study, Invisalign was effective in treating malocclusions. However, it might not be effective if you have more extensive orthodontic issues.
In these cases, dentists often recommend traditional metal braces instead.
Neglecting to wear your Invisalign aligners for 22 hours a day might delay your treatment plan. Make sure to wear your aligners unless you’re eating, brushing, or flossing your teeth. Otherwise, you might not experience the desired results from your treatment.
Follow-Up
You’ll need to schedule follow-up appointments with your orthodontist every few weeks. They’ll check on your progress and provide you with new aligners as needed.
At the end of your treatment plan, your orthodontist will provide you with retainers. Retainers will help you maintain the results from your orthodontist treatment.
Make sure to follow your orthodontist’s instructions to the letter to avoid issues or delays.
Talk to Your Dentist About Invisalign Aligners Today
Treatment with Invisalign aligners can straighten your smile for stunning results. Talk to your orthodontist today to determine if you’re an ideal candidate for treatment. With clear aligners, you can start improving your smile as soon as possible.
Make a change for the better today.
Want to begin treatment with Invisalign? We’re here to help.
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