Everything You Need to Know About the Invisalign Process

Are you curious about the Invisalign process?

Over 33% of adult Americans are dissatisfied with their smiles. Crooked teeth are one main concern, with 77% of women thinking that the issue is even worse than receding hairlines.

If you have crooked teeth, you may feel self-conscious about smiling. But you deserve to feel confident about yourself, and that starts with teeth straightening. One such way is through Invisalign.

In this article, we'll discuss what this treatment is, the entire process, and some frequently asked questions.

In the past, mainly metal bracket braces were used to correct crooked teeth. But for many, these were not only painful but also unsightly.

Today, with many advancements in technology, there are several types of braces available to choose from. They include ceramic, self-ligating, lingual, and Invisalign.

Invisalign is a great choice for many patients. The Invisalign meaning is you get an invisible solution, as the name suggests.

The general concept is this: you wear an Invisalign retainer for a certain amount of time, which you can take out to eat, drink, or brush your teeth. At the end of the treatment, your teeth are nice and straight.

While Invisalign is the most expensive type of braces out there, they're not without their benefits. They have many advantages over other types of braces, such as:

• A custom and personalized solution
  
• Discreet retainers
  
• Better comfort (no scratching or irritation)
  
• Convenient (you can take the trays out whenever you want)
  
• Easy to care for (just brush it with your toothbrush and toothpaste as you would with your teeth)

Now that you know a little bit about Invisalign, here's the typical process you'd go through with your dentist.

1. Consultation Appointment

Before you get started on having the retainers made for you, you need to check that you're a good candidate with your dentist first. While Invisalign is a fantastic teeth-straightening solution, not everyone is suited for it.

During this consultation appointment, your dentist will do a thorough examination of your mouth and ask you what your goals are. They'll then determine if Invisalign is right for you or not.

If it seems like a good idea to go ahead with this type of treatment, then your dentist will go over some key details, such as the process and the length of time you'll need to get results.

2. Digital Molding

Because Invisalign retainers are customized to your teeth, the next step is a digital molding of your mouth. This can happen at either your initial consultation or at a subsequent appointment.

If you've ever had dental work done as a kid, you may remember the unpleasant gooey tray you had to suffer through. But that's been left behind in the past.

Nowadays, digital molding is done through scans, photography, and x-rays. Your dentist will send these things to the Invisalign lab so they can make your retainers for you.

3. Fitting

Once the lab's finished making your trays, then you'll have to pick them up at your dentist's office. Here, they'll help you put in the retainer, and may add small attachments to help them stay in better.

Once they've determined the tray fits nicely, then they'll explain how to take care of them.

4. Follow-Up Appointments

Invisalign isn't a one and done process. You'll have to have a follow-up appointment a few weeks after so your dentist can ensure you're making good progress.

Although you'll have to change retainers throughout the treatment, you won't have to have a follow-up appointment for each one. Check with your doctor to see when you should return for a checkup.

5. A Beautiful Smile

The treatment's length of time and amount of retainers you'll need to use depends on how severely crooked your teeth originally were.

After you've completed your treatment, you'll get the amazing smile you've always wanted.

We've explained the process of getting this teeth-straightening procedure, but maybe you still have some questions or concerns. Below are some commonly asked questions and their answers.

How Much Does It Cost?

This treatment can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000. If this expense is too much for you, then you'll be pleased to know that your insurance company may cover up to $3,000 of your costs. Make sure you get in touch with them beforehand to get a good idea of how much they'll cover.

Does Treatment Hurt?

One of the best things about Invisalign is it won't hurt at all. While you may have some discomfort when you initially wear the trays, that's the extent of it. For the rest of the time, you'll barely even notice it's there.

How Do I Take Care of My Oral Hygiene?

As you may know, there are certain things you have to do with metal bracket braces. You have to take special care to brush around the brackets and use floss threaders.

However, you won't have to deal with that with Invisalign. All you have to do is take them out to brush and floss your teeth as normal.

Can I Play Sports While Wearing My Retainers?

While these are retainers, they aren't designed to withstand heavy impact. So if you're playing high-contact sports, we'd suggest taking out your tray and replacing them with a mouthguard while you're in action.

As you can see, Invisalign is a wonderful alternative to traditional braces. Not only is it discreet, but it's also a lot more convenient and comfortable than metal braces.

Best Dentist in Roseville

GKS Family Dentistry has been serving the local community for years, which means you can trust to handle your Invisalign needs. Dr. Gurkamal Sandhu will provide excellent personal care while you receive treatment.

If you're interested in getting this treatment, then please get in touch with us now to schedule an appointment.