There are a few different treatment options for aligning your teeth. One stands out for being subtle, less tedious, and just as effective. Today, our team at Texas Family Orthodontics will tell you how to get the most out of Invisalign treatment!
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a popular alternative to traditional braces, which are made up of brackets and wires. These are clear, plastic aligners that are able to slowly shift your teeth by using subtly different sets over time. They are notable in that they’re removable, allowing you to clean between meals—but you still need them on for almost all hours of the day.
The Invisalign Process
This tends to be a highly bespoke treatment, but the same general steps are as follows:
- Consultation: Dr. Vo will assess your dental condition and determine if Invisalign is an appropriate treatment choice for you. You will also discuss pricing and duration at this time.
- Treatment Plan: If you move forward with Invisalign, the first step is to take detailed digital scans of your teeth using 3D imaging technology.
- Custom Aligners: The 3D digital scans are used to produce a series of custom-made aligners tailored specifically to your smile. Each subsequent set is designed to move your teeth gradually.
- Wearing Your Aligners: Each set is generally worn for about two weeks, as directed by our team. You’ll take them out for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing.
- Regular Check-Ups: Periodic check-ups with our office are a key part of your treatment. We use these opportunities to monitor your progress and provide you with your next set of aligners. In addition to this, we’ll make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan along the way.
- Treatment Progress: Following our instructions, you’ll wear your series of aligners for a designated period of time, which can range from several months to a couple of years, depending on the condition of your teeth.
- Completion of Treatment: Once you’ve finished with your final set, we’ll give you a retainer to keep your results in place over time.
Tips for Invisalign
Any orthodontic treatment will mean commitment over time. You are largely responsible for how your results turn out based on how diligent you are with your routine and oral health. Here are a few important tips to help you out!
- Follow Wear Guidelines: Adhere to your schedule as provided by Dr. Vo. The aligners should be worn for 20-22 hours a day for optimal results.
- Consistent Wear Times: Maintain consistent daily wear time to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment. Removing aligners for extended periods can slow down progress. We understand how tempting it can be to take them out, but remember that the goal should be to complete your treatment strongly and on time!
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water to prevent staining. Brush and floss your teeth prior to reinserting the aligners to maintain good oral hygiene.
- Aligner Care: Clean your aligners regularly using a soft toothbrush and antimicrobial mouthwash or specialized retainer/aligner cleaning crystals. Avoid using hot water, as it can deform the aligners.
- Store Aligners Safely: When you’re not wearing them, store your aligners in their protective case. This helps you keep track of them and keep them cleaner.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water each day, especially when wearing aligners. This helps prevent dry mouth and reduces your risk of bacterial buildup.
- Attend Regular Check-Ups: Attend all scheduled check-ups with your dentist and Dr. Vo to monitor your progress and keep up with your treatment.
- Communicate with Your Provider: Communication is absolutely key in your orthodontic treatment. If you encounter any issues or concerns during the duration of your Invisalign treatment, don’t hesitate to call one of our offices. We can provide you with guidance and make adjustments as needed.
Just remember that successful treatment requires commitment and diligence! Establishing and maintaining a routine will let your appliance do its job and get you across the finish line well!
Some Words of Warning!
Now that we’ve given you these tips let’s go over a couple of things to avoid doing:
- Smoking: This can stain your aligners dramatically, so advise trying to quit smoking during treatment or be very consistent with removing them beforehand.
- Neglecting Oral Hygiene: Failing to floss and brush before reinserting your aligners can lead to the formation of bad breath, bacteria, plaque, and cavities.
- Ignoring Discomfort: If you encounter discomfort and sharp edges with a set of aligners, make sure to address it promptly. It can lead to soreness and slow down your progress.
Practice Makes Perfect
We’re very familiar with the process of Invisalign in our practice, so we’re glad to help you along the way! Orthodontic treatment requires collaboration between our patients and our team. Don’t ever be afraid to ask questions! If you’re interested in this awesome treatment, you can call us at our San Antonio and Windcrest offices at 210-405-5732.
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