Considering Invisalign to achieve your smile goals? This clear aligner system offers a discreet and flexible way to straighten teeth, but what exactly does the process involve?
Let’s walk through each step of Invisalign treatment so you know what to expect from start to finish.
Step One: The Consultation
Your Invisalign journey begins with a personalized consultation. During this visit, your dentist will evaluate your teeth and bite to determine whether Invisalign is the right solution for your needs. Common issues that can be addressed include crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, and more. If you’re a good candidate, the next step is gathering detailed records to plan your treatment.
Step Two: Diagnostic Records
Once Invisalign is deemed suitable, your dental team will collect diagnostic records. This typically includes photographs of your smile, dental X-rays, and impressions or scans of your teeth. These records are used to design your custom aligners and map out the movements your teeth will make throughout treatment. Each aligner is crafted to shift your teeth gradually, with each new set bringing you closer to your ideal smile.
Step Three: Receiving Your Aligners
After your aligners are created, you’ll return to the office to receive your first set. At this appointment, your dentist may place small attachments—often called “buttons”—on certain teeth to help guide movement. You’ll also learn how to insert and remove your aligners, how to clean them, and how long to wear each set. Most patients wear their aligners for about 20–22 hours a day, switching to a new set every one to two weeks.
Step Four: Follow-Up Appointments
Throughout your treatment, you’ll have periodic check-ins to monitor progress. These visits allow your dentist to ensure everything is moving as planned and make any necessary adjustments. You may receive several sets of aligners at once, reducing the number of office visits needed. Occasionally, minor tweaks may be required to keep your treatment on track.
Step Five: Final Refinements
Once you’ve completed your initial series of aligners, your dentist may recommend a refinement phase. This involves creating a few additional trays to fine-tune your results. Refinements are common and help ensure your teeth reach their optimal alignment. A new scan or impression may be taken to design these final trays.
Step Six: Retainers and Maintenance
After your teeth are aligned, the final step is maintaining your new smile. Your dentist will remove any attachments and provide retainers—usually clear trays similar to your aligners. These help prevent your teeth from shifting back. Initially, you may wear them full-time, then transition to nighttime wear. Consistent use is key to preserving your results long-term.
Invisalign offers a streamlined and personalized approach to orthodontic care. With each step, you move closer to a confident, healthy smile.
About the Practice
Premier Dental Care Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Herndon provides expert Invisalign treatment tailored to your unique needs. Our team combines compassionate care with advanced techniques to help patients achieve beautiful, lasting results. Whether you’re just starting your smile journey or exploring options, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Call us at (940) 566-5332 or request an appointment online.