Getting Started with Invisalign®: What to Expect

At one time, not so long ago, if you needed orthodontics, your only option was traditional braces, metal brackets and wires attached to your teeth, which your dentist tightened a bit at a time to pull your teeth into a different position. Now, there’s another option: Invisalign® clear aligner trays.

The highly trained experts at Supertooth in Bethesda, Gaithersburg, and Germantown, Maryland, offer Invisalign, as well as traditional braces, so no matter your orthodontics needs, we can help. We also understand that you may be wondering what you should expect. This post is to help you feel more prepared about the process of getting and using Invisalign clear aligners. 

The first step: your consultation

Our doctors always want to make sure that whatever treatment you get is right for you, will help you reach your goals, and is suitable for your situation. Invisalign is no different.

During your initial consultation, we do an exam and assess your needs. Some people think that Invisalign is only for certain types of corrections, but the system can be used to treat numerous orthodontic issues, including crowding, gaps between teeth, and overbite, underbite, or crossbite.

In some more severe cases of malocclusion, you may need a different treatment approach. Having an initial consultation gives your dentist a chance to discuss your goals and suggest the most effective way to reach them.

The initial consultation is also a great time for you to ask any questions you may have, both about how Invisalign works as well as specifics about your treatment plan. 

Getting a perfect fit, every time

After your initial consultation, it’s time to get started with changing your smile! Your treatment plan is customized to fit your needs and your mouth. We use cutting-edge technology to produce precise 3D images of your mouth. This means your trays are designed for your mouth exactly, without any goopy stuff to make impressions.

Your trays will fit against your teeth so that change is happening, but importantly, they will also be comfortable. Invisalign uses patented material called SmartTrack® to make your trays. It’s soft, and also free of BPA, so you don’t need to worry about dangerous chemicals. 

Appointments through the treatment

Each week or two, depending on your needs, you’ll get a new set of aligner trays. Each set moves your teeth a little bit at a time toward a more ideal alignment. You may feel a bit of tenderness when you begin using each new tray, but it’s temporary and mild. 

In order for the Invisalign system to work properly, you’ll need to wear your trays for 20-22 hours each day. You can remove them to eat and to perform your daily dental hygiene routine. 

Through your Invisalign journey, you can plan on regular checkups in our office about every 4-6 weeks. During these check-ins, our team ensures that your treatment plan is progressing.

Although 20-22 hours each day may seem like a lot, Invisalign is generally considered the more comfortable orthodontic choice compared to traditional braces. You may begin to see a difference in as little as six weeks, depending on how much you wear your trays and your specific dental options. Most people need to wear clear aligners for 12-18 months to reach optimal results. 

After Invisalign

Once you finish your treatment, it’s time to flash that perfect smile! In order to maintain your results, you’ll need to keep up with your daily hygiene routine, and also get regular professional cleanings and checkups.

In some cases, a retainer may be an important part of the treatment. If you need a retainer, be sure to wear it as recommended. Retainers can help prevent your teeth from shifting after orthodontic treatment.

If you’re ready to learn more and find out what your treatment plan would look like, schedule an appointment at the most convenient location of Supertooth for you. We’re always happy to answer your questions!