Invisalign is an innovative orthodontic treatment option for adults and teens who are looking to straighten their teeth and improve their smile.
Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign treatment in Essex involves a series of custom, clear plastic aligners which are worn in a sequence to gradually move the teeth over time. They are becoming increasingly popular not only because of their effectiveness and the results they provide but also the many great advantages that patients can benefit from such as;
- Removable
- Practically invisible
- Comfortable
- Easy to maintain good oral hygiene
- No need to change eating habits
- Fewer dentist visits required
If you’re considering Invisalign or are already on the path to your teeth straightening journey and would like to know more about the process involved, then here is everything you need to know about what Invisalign treatment entails.
Consultation
Your initial consultation is a chance for you to ask any questions you may have and for your dentist to explain how the system works, expected timelines and a full cost estimate with payment options. This appointment will also usually involve a brief examination of your teeth and mouth to help determine your suitability for Invisalign.
Treatment Plan
Once you have decided that Invisalign is the right option for you then a more in-depth assessment of your healthy teeth and mouth is required which will likely include x-rays, digital scans, photographs and impressions that are used to produce a bespoke treatment plan. They also help to create a detailed and accurate model of your teeth and mouth from which the Invisalign laboratory can make your custom aligner trays. It can take between 2-4 weeks for the trays to be complete.
First Fitting
Once they are ready, you will visit the dentist to try on your aligners and at the same time, your dentist will explain important information about the sequence, process, wear time, maintenance, cleaning and anything else you need to know.
Depending on your unique dental needs, you may require small, clear attachments to be fitted to your teeth to help keep the trays in place. Some patients also require some minor inter-proximal re-contouring or slenderising, which involves gently filing down the side of teeth to create the space needed to allow the required teeth to move.
Follow up appointments
The aligner trays are to be worn for around 2 weeks at a time before moving on to the next set in the sequence and patients are given several weeks’ worth in advance so this can be done at home. Check-ups are only usually required around every 6-8 weeks to ensure that everything is progressing as it should be and to ensure that you are on track and no issues have arisen.
Refinement
As you near the end of your Invisalign treatment, your dentist may decide that there is the need to take some new impressions to create some extra trays in order to ‘refine’ some areas and give the best possible results. This are included in the Invisalign treatment and are not an additional charge.
Retainers
Once your Invisalign treatment is complete, most patients are fitted with a discreet retainer wire behind their teeth to permanently hold them in place. You will also be given a removable retainer to wear at night to help keep your teeth in their new position and prevent them from shifting.
