When it comes to advanced orthodontic care more and more people have been turning to Invisalign®. The clear, removable plastic aligners are popular among teenage and adult patients who visit our Lansdale dental care center.
Let's take a moment to consider the basics of Invisalign® and then focus on treatment times. This general timeline for Invisalign® treatment should give you and idea of the effectiveness of treatment and what it involves.
What Is Invisalign®?
Invisalign® is an alternative to traditional braces, proving quite effective at improving overall dental alignment. Rather than using brackets and wires to exert force on the teeth and alter dental alignment, Invisalign® uses clear plastic aligners. These are custom molded to the teeth, and help with the gradual shift in position of the dental arch.
The Initial Consultation
The first step in Invisalign® treatment is an initial consultation. During this visit with a dentist, candidacy for Invisalign® will be assessed. Some patients may not be ideal candidates for Invisalign®, such as people whose malocclusion is severe and involves issues with the shape of the dental arch or the position of the jaw. More traditional or advanced orthodontic treatments may be recommended in these cases.
If a patient is deemed an ideal candidate for Invisalign®, impressions can be taken so the Invisalign® aligners can be created. Using advanced computer technology, a full treatment plan can be developed that spans the course of several months.
The First Invisalign® Aligner
The patient's first Invisalign® aligner will arrive a week to two weeks after an impression is taken. The patients will be asked to wear this Invisalign® aligner at all times except when eating, drinking, or cleaning their teeth.
Patients will likely experience soreness and tenderness when wearing their Invisalign® aligner initially, but these sensations tend to abate after a day to a few days.
A New Invisalign® Aligner Every Two Weeks
Every two weeks, a patient will be provided with a new Invisalign® aligner. This new Invisalign® aligner will similarly be worn throughout the day, helping with overall dental alignment in the process.
The process will continue over the course of the next few months, with Invisalign® aligners worn for two months at a time and replaced with another aligner. Each aligner will help with the gradual shift in the position of the teeth.
How Long Will Invisalign® Treatment Take?
In general, Invisalign® treatment takes about six months to a year. Sometimes more time is required depending on the nature and severity of the malocclusion. During the consultation process, your dentist can give you a clearer and more accurate estimate regarding treatment time based on your situation.
How Does Treatment Time Compare to Traditional Braces?
In general, Invisalign® takes as long as traditional braces treatment. The major difference is that Invisalign® aligners are difficult to notice and are easier to clean. In addition, Invisalign® will not affect your ability to eat certain foods, and generally result in no interruptions to your personal life or professional life.
Is Invisalign® Right for Me?
The best way to find out if Invisalign® is right for you is to visit our practice for a consultation. We will provide you with ample information regarding your treatment options and help you make the most ideal decisions regarding your orthodontic treatment needs.
Learn More About Invisalign®
For more information about Invisalign® and whether or not it's an ideal treatment option for you and your needs, be sure to contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry practice today. We look forward to your visit and discussing these matters in much greater detail.