Having straight teeth is not only a confidence booster, but it can make chewing and eating easier because it means your teeth are more aligned. Invisalign® is an “invisible” alternative to traditional braces when you are looking for a solution to straighter teeth.
Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces
Invisalign is typically more comfortable than traditional braces. Because the aligners are clear, they are mostly invisible. They can be easily removed while eating, drinking and brushing your teeth. Additionally, you can brush your aligners as part of your regular oral care routine.
Our Invisalign Process
Dr. Lanik can take a look at your mouth and determine if Invisalign will work for you. We will also explain how it works and ensure you are committed to the process to have a successful experience. Here is how Invisalign works and what you can expect:
Consultation
During our consultation, Dr. Lanik will explain the Invisalign treatment process and conduct a thorough assessment of your mouth. We’ll use an intra-oral camera to take images of your mouth and create a digital “impression.” We use a proprietary Invisalign ClinCheck software to map out the best treatment for you – from your first aligner to your brand-new smile. At this appointment, we may be able to provide you with a tentative estimate for the number of aligners and cost.
Treatment Plan
When you return for your treatment plan, Dr. Lanik will review the Invisalign treatment recommendations with you. This will include the number of aligners you will need to wear and the required length of time. Depending on the amount of movement your teeth require, you may only need six to eight aligners or a comprehensive case of 12 – 16 aligners.
Aligners
At your next appointment, we’ll provide you with your first set of aligners and give you specific instructions on how to care for them, how long to wear them each day and other important details to help you stay on track. Your treatment timeline is based on how well you comply with the treatment plan instructions. For example, if you don’t wear your aligners for the prescribed 22 hours per day or just forget to wear them, your treatment will take longer.
Follow-Up
You will return to our office for each new set of aligners. This will help Dr. Lanik assess your progress and confirm you’re adhering to the treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign
Invisalign is not for everyone. As part of our consultation process, Dr. Lanik will help identify if Invisalign is right for you. In cases where patients have a severe underbite, overbite or crossbite, or when significant movement is required, Dr. Lanik may refer you to an orthodontist for traditional braces.
You may experience some soreness as your teeth move and shift, especially during the initial phases. You can take over-the-counter pain medicines and try to eat softer foods. You might also want to drink smoothies or have soup during the first few days.
While you will experience some discomfort, you will not have pain. If you find yourself having pain at any time, you can give us a call or come into the office.
Once you have your first aligner, you need to make sure you are wearing it as much as possible to see quick results. For successful treatment, you must be willing to wear your Invisalign aligners 22 hours per day. If you don’t, your treatment may take longer or require you to wear additional aligners.