Have you been avoiding orthodontic treatment because you hate the idea of wearing metal braces? Invisalign® could be an option for you at our Missouri City, TX practice.
This treatment can straighten your teeth without metal brackets, bands, or wires. Here, our team at Fort Bend Dental explores the general steps in the Invisalign treatment timeline and explains what patients can expect during the process.
Initial Consultation
If you are considering Invisalign, the first step is to schedule a consultation with your dentist. During this appointment he or she will discuss your cosmetic concerns with you in detail.
Your doctor will also assess the health of your teeth and gums to determine if this treatment option is right for you. If you qualify for Invisalign, we will schedule you for another visit to begin the treatment planning process.
Treatment Planning
Before you can begin treatment, we must take impressions of your teeth. This is typically performed with a handheld digital wand, but impressions may also be taken with traditional dental putty.
These impressions are important to your overall treatment. They are sent to the Invisalign lab, where a technician will use them to create your aligners.
Fabrication of Aligner Trays
Once the lab receives your impressions, the lab technician will work closely with your dentist. By doing so, he or she can create your trays according to the personalized treatment plan designed for you.
Several sets of aligners will be necessary to gradually move your teeth. The complexity of your case will determine exactly how many trays are necessary.
Active Treatment: Wearing Your Aligners
Once your aligners have been crafted, they will be shipped to our office. When they arrive, we will schedule you for an appointment. Your dentist will make sure the first set of trays fit snugly and comfortably over the teeth and will ensure that the trays were fabricated according to plan.
You will wear your first set of aligners for approximately two weeks. During this time, the trays must be worn for at least 22 hours every day. You should only remove them to clean the teeth and to eat or drink. Wearing your trays exactly as directed is crucial to the success of your treatment.
When to Expect Results
Overall, Invisalign treatment takes about the same amount of time as traditional metal braces. However, the exact timeline will depend on your unique situation and the severity of your malocclusion.
While some patients may require nearly two years of treatment, some can achieve their desired results in only six months. During your first visit, your doctor can give you a basic timeline for your treatment.
Retention
When your treatment is complete, it is important to wear a retainer. This will prevent your teeth from shifting back into their old positions.
Movement is most likely during the first year after treatment, as the ligaments around the teeth have not tightened back up. Keep in mind that your teeth will shift over the years, regardless of whether you had orthodontic treatment.
Therefore, wear your retainers as directed to preserve your new smile (and your investment).
Schedule Your Invisalign Consultation Today
Are you looking to enhance your smile and straighten your teeth? If you would like to learn more about Invisalign treatment at our practice, contact Fort Bend Dental today. You can also call us at (281) 336-9971 or (281) 499-3541 .
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