Every process comes with essential steps to follow. You rarely can skip or leave out steps without messing up the entire thing! When it comes to Invisalign, you need to understand the steps before you begin because if you are not aware of or resolved to the process, you will not experience success. From the first step to the last, learn about the steps in the Invisalign process so that you can end up with the straight smile you’ve always wanted.
Step 1: Invisalign Consultation
Although the consultation may not seem significant at first, it serves a critical purpose that sets you on the right path from the beginning. Not only can your dentist create your custom treatment plan but also make sure you are dedicated to success.
Step 2: Daily Invisalign Wear
You will be instructed to wear the aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours every day. If you don’t meet this minimum, your teeth will not shift as they need to, and your next aligners may not fit properly. In fact, you may delay your overall treatment plan as a result. Take out your aligners only to eat and drink anything other than water and to clean your teeth. Make sure you brush and floss your teeth before putting the aligners back in your mouth.
Step 3: Switching Out Aligners
About every week or two, based on your dentist’s instructions, you will change your aligners to the next set in the timeline. To stay on track, you need to stick to this schedule. If you lose or break an aligner, your dentist can direct you how to respond to minimize the delay.
Step 4: Occasional Check-ins
About every two months, your dentist will ask you to come in and allow them to examine your teeth. They are looking only for your progress and for any indications that your treatment plan needs to be adapted to reach your goal.
Step 5: Retainers
Once you’ve finished the last set of aligners, you will wear your retainers like you did your Invisalign trays. All day and night, except for food, drinks, and oral hygiene. Eventually, you can wear them only at night, preventing relapses and regression.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Smile for Life!
Now that you’ve finished the entire process, make sure you fully appreciate your straight smile and have fun showing it off! Note that if you fail to continue wearing your retainers, even years after treatment, don’t be surprised if you notice your teeth starting to shift back over time. Also, once you’ve achieved your goal, make sure you take excellent care of your teeth to protect against cavities, gum disease, and other oral conditions.
The Invisalign process has the potential to permanently alter your smile for the better, but only if you stay on target with your dentist’s directions. Make sure you understand these steps to have a smile you’re proud of and excited for everyone to see!
About the Practice
Brooks Dental has served the Winthrop community for more than 60 years! Since then, our dentists and staff have stayed on the cutting edge of technology and used the latest techniques for patient success, comfort, and satisfaction. Dr. Stephanie Brooks leads the team, but we are privileged to have a board-certified orthodontist come to our office to assist with these complex cases. We are happy to treat the entire family and help everyone love their smiles. Get in touch with us if you’re interested in starting Invisalign either online or by phone at 617-846-1811.