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So you’ve settled the big Invisalign vs braces debate and opted for the clear, removable teeth aligners but how does Invisalign work?
Preparing for Invisalign
The first step before beginning an Invisalign regimen is to visit your dentist for an examination. If your dentist finds that you are a good candidate for the treatment the next step is to begin taking records. These records include photos of your teeth and face, dental molds, and two x-rays.
These documents are then sent to Invisalign with detailed instructions on the movement desired by the patient.
Invisalign will then scan your tooth impressions so they have a 3D model in their database. Next Invisalign’s trained technicians will digitally move your teeth step by step to their final positions. Your dentist will then review the movements and give the final go ahead and Invisalign will craft the trays and mail them to your dental office.
How Does Invisalign Work?
It typically takes about a month from getting your impressions to starting your Invisalign treatment. The way the system works is that a patient will wear a set of Invisalign trays for two weeks at a time. Each tray is fabricated so that teeth will move gradually over a long period of time. Teeth will typically move 1/10th of a millimeter per tray.
Each tray makes your teeth just a tiny bit straighter than the last one. They work by putting pressure on your teeth to “guide” them into position.
Most people who undergo Invisalign treatment do so because they have crowded front teeth. Invisalign reduces crowding my making more room for teeth to fit in the mouth.
Typically, Invisalign is recommended for teens and young adults. If you are older your dentist will most like recommend orthodontic treatment.
Talk to your dentist to see if you are a good candidate for Invisalign
