The Process of Invisalign Treatment, Step-by-Step

Invisalign treatment has risen over the past few decades to become one of the most popular orthodontic treatments. People of all ages can appreciate the sleek, discreet aligners, as well as the freedom that Invisalign treatment affords them.

However, you might not necessarily know what getting Invisalign will entail, and how the process would compare to that of traditional braces. If you’re curious, here’s a step-by-step guide to what it takes to get Invisalign.

Step 1: Consultation

The first step in getting your Invisalign aligner will be the consultation, during which your dentist will review your options and determine whether Invisalign is right for you. They’ll also talk to you about what kinds of preliminary procedures you’ll need.

Step 2: Design

If it seems like Invisalign is the right option for you, your dentist will use sophisticated digital imaging software to create a 3D model of your smile. This will be loaded into customized software used to design your trays.

The designs will be sent to an external lab, where the series of plastic trays you’ll be wearing over the next year or so will be created.

Step 3: Receiving Your Trays

Once your aligners have been completed, you will visit your dentist to receive them. At this point, your orthodontic journey will begin in earnest.

You will begin wearing these trays for 20-22 hours a day and will have each set of aligners over the course of 4-7 weeks. When you run out of trays, you’ll come back to the dentist’s office to receive your next set of them. This will also be an opportunity for your dentist to take a look at your smile and ensure that you’re in good oral health.

This process will continue for around 12-14 months, depending on the severity of your misalignment and how diligent you are with your dental treatment.

Step 4: Adjustment Trays

After you’ve completed the entire series of alignment trays, your dentist will take a look at your smile and determine whether your teeth are where they should be. If they aren’t, it may be necessary to use additional adjustment trays in order to get your teeth into shape.

Step 5: Retainer

Once your treatment is complete, you’ll be given a retainer in order to hold your new smile in place. This retainer will look a lot like your Invisalign aligners, but how long you’ll have to wear them will heavily depend on your unique situation.

Once you’re through with your retainer, you’re done! You can enjoy your beautiful new smile for decades to come.

About Our Practice

At Ridgefield Perfect Smile Center, we like to think that we can offer you everything that you could need to get the oral health that you’re looking for. We understand that orthodontics can seem like a long and intimidating journey, but you can rest assured that we’ll be by your side through every step of the process. When you see us for Invisalign treatment, you can expect care and compassion for your entire stay with us. If you have any questions about Invisalign, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (203) 438-8919.