If you have gapped, misaligned, or crooked teeth, you may feel conscious about your smile, which could dent your self-esteem. Metal braces were the only option for orthodontic concerns at some point, but not anymore. You can check with a dentist in Plainville, Massachusetts, to discuss Invisalign. For the unversed, Invisalign treatment involves using clear, custom aligners, which are almost invisible to the eyes. Here is a review of the procedure.

How do Invisalign trays work?

Invisalign aligners are made of a special material called SmartTrack®, which works in the same way as metal braces and guides teeth into desired positions. Unlike metal braces, which can feel uncomfortable and cause poking, these trays are removable. Invisalign is typically recommended for those with crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth and is best suited for mild to moderate orthodontic cases. It is also the choice for adults who don’t want ugly metalwork.

What are the benefits of Invisalign?

Firstly, Invisalign trays are clear and invisible, which makes them a better choice for working professionals. Secondly, the material feels much more comfortable than braces and would cause gum irritation. You can remove the aligners while eating, brushing, and flossing, and therefore, there is no compromise on your dental hygiene habits. You don’t need as many visits to the dental clinic with Invisalign.

What is the procedure like?

Invisalign treatment can be divided into five steps –

  1. The initial consultation: Your dentist will discuss your orthodontic goals and do an exam to check whether you are likely to benefit from Invisalign.
  2. Making molds: If your dentist feels you are an ideal candidate, they will take 3D scans and X-rays to create custom molds, which will be used to create custom aligners in a dental lab.
  3. Wearing aligners: During the next appointment, your dentist will check the aligners for adjustments and may use clips to secure the trays. You are required to wear the aligners for at least 22 hours daily.
  4. Return for replacement: Your current trays will be replaced every two to six weeks, and your dentist will track progress and make adjustments accordingly.
  5. Reviewing results: After a few weeks, you will go through another exam to check if Invisalign is working for you as expected.

It can take up to 18 months to see results with the treatment, and you should remain committed to wearing the clear aligners as suggested by the dentist. Ask about costs in advance.