A lot of people are keen on the idea of straight teeth but put off getting braces because they don’t want unsightly metal wires all over their mouth. If you’re one of these people, Invisalign may be for you! These clear braces are able to straighten your teeth just as traditional metal braces can. However, they aren’t nearly as noticeable and won’t place restrictions on your diet, since they can be removed in a second. The lack of wires also means your cheeks and gums won’t keep getting irritated. Invisalign braces are terrific alternatives to traditional metal braces. Plus, they usually don’t have to be worn as long and are a lot cheaper than you’d think!

Wondering how this incredible piece of orthodontic technology works? Keep reading to find out!

It all begins with a consultation
Before you start the teeth straightening process, you’ll have to have a consultation with an orthodontist who is qualified and trained to straighten teeth using Invisalign technology. It’s important that you find a dentist who specializes in this because not every orthodontist is going to be trained with this treatment.

During your consultation, your teeth will be examined closely. X-rays and photographs will be taken and your dentist will assess whether or not you are a candidate for Invisalign. You’ll also get the opportunity to talk about the treatment plan and how much it’s going to cost you. Make sure you choose an orthodontist who you are comfortable with – you’re going to be working with them for quite some time.

Your orthodontist will create a personalized treatment plan
Assuming you’ve been deemed a suitable candidate for Invisalign, the next step is to create a personalized treatment plan. Your orthodontist will do this by examining your teeth even further and taking impressions. A 3-D image of your teeth will be created and technology will help to lay out the stages of straightening. The entire straightening process usually takes around a year, depending on your teeth and any other unique challenges the orthodontist may have to face.

You get to wear your new clear braces
After the different stages of straightening have been figured out, your clear plastic aligners will be created and you’ll get to wear them. They can be put onto your teeth easily without causing the same cuts and discomfort that metal wires do. You’ll have to wear your aligners every day around the clock, aside from when you’re eating and cleaning your teeth. You can also take them off if you need to temporarily wear a mouthguard. It’s important to make a point of keeping them on for a minimum of twenty hours each day.

Your old pair of aligners will be swapped out every two weeks
Unlike with traditional metal braces, you don’t have to go get your wires tightened every few weeks. Instead, you’ll simply swap out your old set of aligners with a new one that your orthodontist created based on your treatment plan. Every set of aligners will pull your teeth in a little bit more, straightening it out. With Invisalign technology, your orthodontist not only controls the force exerted on your teeth but the amount of time that it is pushed. Every set of aligners focuses on pushing certain teeth. There may be some adjustments along the way. If there are, your orthodontist should keep you in the loop.

You’ll visit your dentist every few weeks
Traditional metal braces require you to visit the dentist every four weeks or so. With Invisalign braces, you won’t have to visit the dentist quite as often. However, you’ll still have to stop by for a checkup around every six weeks. Your orthodontist will examine your teeth and ensure that the straightening process is going smoothly. He or she will also see if any modifications have to be made. In some cases, patients have to wear retainers after treatment to ensure that their teeth stay in their new position. It’s a good idea to ask your orthodontist whether you’ll have to wear them.

Make sure you keep up with regular teeth cleaning. People who get their teeth straightened are often more at risk for cavities and other issues because their teeth cleaning process has to be changed. That being said, Invisalign technology doesn’t change the way you clean your teeth nearly as much as metal braces do.

It’s important to take good care of your teeth
You’ll need to take good care of your teeth before, during, and after treatment so that your teeth stay clean and strong. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss regularly and make sure you visit your dentist for a cleaning every six months!

Are you ready to straighten your teeth with Invisalign braces?
Invisalign braces make it possible for you to get that straight, bright smile without suffering through months of a metal mouth. You’ll be able to smile with confidence even while your teeth are being straightened. It’s important to take care of yourself sometimes. With Invisalign, you’ll be able to get a smile that makes you feel confident and ready to take on the world!