Invisalign Clear Aligners
If you’re thinking about using Invisalign aligners, you might be wondering what your life will be like while you wear them. After all, metal braces require diet changes and special care. Fortunately, life with Invisalign is much simpler and the process, aided by advanced technology, is easier.ct.
Consultation
At your first consultation with Dr. Maya Assi, you’ll have an exam of your teeth done. She’ll take 3D digital scans of your mouth using an iTero Element® scanner to get a full view of your teeth.
This technology allows her to project the movement of your teeth and provide detailed images of the entire course of treatment. Dr. Assi will also show you what your finished smile will look like.
It’ll take a couple of weeks for your first Invisalign trays to arrive. When they do, you’ll come back to our office so we can make sure they fit properly. Dr. Assi will also give you detailed care instructions at this time.
Wearing Your Trays
We recommend you wear your Invisalign trays for 20-22 hours a day. While you can take them out to clean them and to eat, it’s important to wear your aligners so your treatment stays on track. If you don’t wear them enough your treatment may take longer.
You’ll wear the set you have for two weeks, then switch to a new set. You don’t have to visit the dentist every time you need a new set, though. Invisalign trays can be sent directly to you, but you may also pick them up from our office if you prefer.
Checkups will be scheduled every six to eight weeks to ensure your treatment is on the right track. You may not be able to see the progress being made because the changes are gradual, but Dr. Assi can show you how much your teeth have moved.
The End Result
After as little as 12 months, you could have a straighter smile. Treatment length can vary depending on your unique situation, but the Invisalign process takes an average of half the time of metal braces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Invisalign removable?
Absolutely! Invisalign aligners are completely removable. In fact, you have to remove your aligners to clean your teeth and aligners, as well as to eat. However, despite being removable, you’ll need to wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day for the treatment to be effective.
We create your aligners to fit your teeth perfectly, so they may be difficult to put in and remove when you first get them. If you have trouble getting your aligners in your mouth, we recommend Invisalign chewies to help get your aligners completely situated on your teeth.
How long does the Invisalign treatment take?
On average, Invisalign takes 12 months to complete. Though the overall treatment time is often substantially quicker than traditional metal braces, each patient’s individual treatment time varies depending on the extent of treatment needed.
Factors that influence your treatment time include severe crowding, gaps, age. While there’s no upper age limit on Invisalign, your teeth may react to the treatment slower. However, by strictly following the treatment’s guidelines, you can better control the speed and effectiveness of your treatment.
Will wearing the aligners affect my speech?
Until you adjust to the Invisalign aligners, they can cause some slight speech alterations and changes. Because they’re designed to fit your teeth perfectly, they may be difficult to get situated on your teeth initially. Any uncomfortable or strange feelings will fade within the first few days but might cause a small lisp at first.
Invisalign aligners are very unlikely to cause any significant changes to your ability to speak, and certainly nothing permanent.
What do I do if I break or lose my aligners?
This isn’t an uncommon occurrence, and replacement aligners are already included in your treatment cost. Once you know that your aligner is lost or broken, call our office right away at 954-603-3508.
Contact Us for a Straighter Smile
If you’re interested in straightening your teeth without the hassle of wires and brackets, Invisalign may be right for you. Every case of orthodontic treatment is different and the only way to experience yours is to see a dentist.
To find out more and schedule your consultation, call 954-603-3508. You can also fill out our online contact form and we’ll get right back to you.