Invisalign Treatment in Lafayette IN – An Overview
Invisalign is a discreet, comfortable, and convenient way to correct orthodontic problems that has been proven to be as effective as traditional braces. But instead of using arch wires and brackets, the Invisalign system uses clear aligners to move your teeth through the precise placement of controlled force on the teeth.
Invisalign controls the timing of the force application by changing the set of aligners every two weeks, so you don’t have to go to the dentist’s office for adjustments. With each set of aligners, only specific teeth are moved according to the treatment plan, providing an efficient force delivery system.
That said, the most important variable for successful Invisalign treatment is your compliance to wear the aligners as instructed. This includes:
- Wearing the aligners for a minimum of 22 hours a day
- Wearing each set for 14 days or as instructed
- Wearing each set properly (upper or lower, right sequence, and inserting them gently until they snap in place and are fully seated)
- Removing, cleaning, and storing them properly
- Removing them when eating and drinking anything
Fewer Dental Visits
One of the benefits of Invisalign is the fewer number of dental appointments for the duration of your treatment. These dental visits include:
Initial Consultation:
If you’re a suitable candidate for Invisalign, the dentist will take a detailed scan of your teeth, photographs, and a full-mouth X-ray that will be used to design your Invisalign treatment plan and custom aligners.
Fitting Appointments:
Your next appointment will be scheduled when your custom aligners are fabricated. The dentist will insert the first set of custom trays and make any adjustments or interproximal reduction (IPR) (slenderizing/slimming) to ensure proper tooth alignment when shifting. During this visit, the Invisalign specialist will also instruct you on how to insert and remove them, as well as how to care for your aligners. Each set of aligners is worn for two weeks, so you will be given the next 3-4 sets of aligners in your treatment plan to change at home.
Monitoring Visits:
Invisalign monitoring visits are scheduled every 6-8 weeks to assess the progress of your treatment, perform any slenderizing, and receive the next set of aligners. The number of scheduled visits depend on the number of aligner sets prescribed in your individual treatment plan.
Final Appointment
At the end of your treatment, the last appointment will be used to determine if further refining (minor bite adjustments) should be done or to order custom retainers to help maintain the new position of your teeth. Retainers are long-lasting, and only need replacement when worn out.
Start Your Invisalign Treatment Today
If you have an orthodontic issue, such as crooked or crowded teeth, misaligned bite, or over/under-bite, please visit your Invisalign dentist in Lafayette IN to evaluate your teeth and determine whether you’re a good candidate for Invisalign.
