Who doesn’t dream of a perfect smile?
Especially without wearing metal braces while the work is being done.
Invisalign has changed the field of orthodontics by providing a modern alternative to traditional metal braces.
Many people now want to straighten their teeth discreetly, and Invisalign offers a solution that is effective and looks good.
But how does Invisalign work?
This article explains that, the technology behind it, the treatment process, and its benefits compared to traditional orthodontic methods.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a brand of clear aligners designed to straighten teeth over time.
Unlike traditional braces that use brackets and wires, Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners that fit snugly over the teeth.
These aligners are virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for adults and teens who want to correct their dental issues without the noticeable appearance of metal braces.
So, How Does Invisalign Work?
The Invisalign treatment process is simple:
1. Initial Consultation
Your journey starts with an initial visit to an orthodontist at City Orthodontics, who is trained in Invisalign.
During this visit, the dentist will check your dental health and talk about your goals.
They will take pictures, X-rays, and digital scans or impressions of your teeth to create a precise treatment plan.
2. Customized Treatment Plan
After gathering your dental information, your orthodontist will develop a customized treatment plan using 3D computer imaging.
This technology helps them see how your teeth will move during treatment.
They will also provide an estimate of how long you will need to wear the aligners, usually between 6 to 18 months, based on how complex your case is.
3. Creating the Aligners
Once the treatment plan is ready, the digital impressions go to an Invisalign lab to make your custom aligners.
Each set of aligners is designed to move your teeth slowly into the right position.
You will receive a series of aligners—typically between 18 and 30 sets—that you will change every one to two weeks.
4. Wearing the Aligners
You need to wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day to get the best results.
You can only take them out for eating, drinking (except for water), brushing, and flossing.
Each aligner applies gentle pressure to shift your teeth gradually.
5. Regular Check-ups
You’ll need regular check-ups, usually every 6 to 8 weeks, to track your progress and make any needed adjustments.
6. Completion of Treatment
After you finish the series of aligners and get your desired results, your orthodontist will check your new smile.
To keep your teeth in their new position, you may need to wear a retainer.
Benefits of Invisalign
Patients like Invisalign for several reasons.
First, its biggest advantage is that it is nearly invisible. The clear aligners are discreet, so users can smile confidently without worrying about metal brackets and wires.
Invisalign aligners are also made from smooth plastic, making them more comfortable than traditional braces, which often cause mouth irritation and discomfort.
Another key benefit is that patients can remove the aligners when eating, drinking, brushing, or flossing. This makes it much easier to keep good oral hygiene compared to fixed braces.
Finally, the advanced technology used to create the treatment plan helps patients understand what results to expect and how long the treatment will take.
In Summary
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign uses advanced technology and the well-established art of orthodontics to create an effective and convenient way to straighten teeth.
The aligners sit directly on your teeth, making them low-profile and nearly invisible, so most people won’t notice you are wearing them.
At City Orthodontics, we provide high-quality orthodontic care that is easy to access for patients in the Greater Toronto Area.