When you decide to undertake any cosmetic treatment, you will probably have a few questions about the process.
While researching online can help to answer some of your questions, you may have some very specific ones, focused on your own health or a specific concern. Add dentistry into the mix and suddenly, you will probably have twice as many questions as you did before!
Cosmetic dental procedures are increasing in popularity and, as is often the way, people are asking more questions than they have before about dental treatments. Some of the most sought after treatments are adult orthodontic procedures, designed to straighten minor to moderate misalignments. And, of course, there are a few questions to be asked about this specific treatment, particularly around the process of Invisalign.
So, if you go to your dentist for adult orthodontics with an invisible aligner, what can you expect out of the procedure? Is it any different from what you would expect with regular braces? Read on to find out!
Choosing a surgery
When you seek out Invisalign, it is worth spending some time contacting different dentists. Not all dentists are trained to use this brace and so, it is worth searching for a qualified team at the beginning. And, while you’re at it, look at the surgery reviews too! You won’t want to choose an unsuitable surgery for your cosmetic treatment!
Consultation
At your consultation, your chosen dentist will examine your teeth and your oral health. A 3D scan will be taken of the inside of your mouth, to help your dental team predict how Invisalign will move your teeth during the treatment. As odd as it sounds, you will be asked by your team how you want your smile to look once the treatment is completed; bring in as many photos as you can of your dream smile to give them an idea!
Also, the first consultation is the perfect opportunity to ask your dentist about this aligner and to air any concerns you have.
Treatment plan
After your 3D scan is complete, your dentist will send your images to a laboratory, where they can sculpt the aligners.
As invisible braces tend to use over 10 different trays, you can expect there to be a few aligners when you pick them up from your surgery. This process will take up to 10 days and your surgery should contact you when the aligners arrive.
The aligners!
Your aligners will resemble a mouthguard used in sports, but will be transparent.
You will need to wear your aligner for up to 22 hours a day to see results and, you will need to change your aligners throughout the treatment. On average, this will happen about every 14 days.
Aftercare
Now your teeth are straighter (usually achieved in about 6 months with an invisible aligner), you will need to wear a retainer to keep them firmly in their new position. This will be custom fitted too, but will ensure that your new smile is there for a very long time!
