Several treatment options are available for aligning your teeth, with one standing out for its subtlety, simplicity, and effectiveness. Today, the Sturbridge Orthodontics team will give you tips for Invisalign treatment.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign serves as a widely favored alternative to traditional braces, which are characterized by brackets and wires. Consisting of clear plastic aligners, Invisalign gradually adjusts your teeth by employing subtly different sets over time. A notable feature is their removability, permitting cleaning between meals. They are typically worn for most hours of the day.
We offer both Invisalign First for kids and Invisalign Teen for adolescents.
The Process
This is a highly bespoke process for everyone in terms of fit, but treatment consists of the same steps for everyone.
- Consultation: Dr. Sabelis or Dr. Tiberii will evaluate your dental condition to determine if Invisalign is a suitable treatment option. During this consultation, pricing and the expected duration of the treatment will be discussed.
- Treatment Plan: If you decide to proceed with Invisalign, the initial step involves taking detailed digital scans of your teeth using advanced 3D imaging technology.
- Custom Aligners: The 3D digital scans are utilized to create a series of custom-made aligners tailored specifically to your smile. Each subsequent set is crafted to gradually shift your teeth.
- Wearing Your Aligners: Typically, each set is worn for about two weeks, as directed by our team. You can remove them for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing.
- Regular Check-Ups: Regular check-ups with our office are essential components of your treatment. During these appointments, we monitor your progress and provide you with the next set of aligners. Additionally, any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan will be made as needed.
- Treatment Progress: Following our guidelines, you’ll wear your series of aligners for a specified period, which can vary from several months to a couple of years, depending on the condition of your teeth.
- Completion of Treatment: Upon completing your final set, we will provide you with a retainer to help maintain your results over time.
Tips for Invisalign
Embarking on any orthodontic treatment requires a commitment over time. The outcome largely depends on your diligence with your routine and oral health. Here are some crucial tips to assist you.
- Follow Wear Guidelines: Adhere to the schedule provided by your doctor, ensuring that the aligners are worn for 20-22 hours a day for optimal results.
- Consistent Wear Times: Maintain a consistent daily wear time to guarantee the effectiveness of the treatment. Prolonged removal of aligners can impede progress. While it may be tempting to take them out, remember that the goal is to complete your treatment successfully and on time.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Remove aligners before consuming anything other than water to prevent staining. Brush and floss your teeth before reinserting the aligners to uphold good oral hygiene.
- Aligner Care: Regularly clean your aligners using a soft toothbrush and antimicrobial mouthwash or specialized retainer/aligner cleaning crystals. Avoid using hot water, as it can deform the aligners.
- Store Aligners Safely: When not in use, store aligners in their protective case to keep track of them and maintain cleanliness.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially when you’re wearing aligners, to prevent dry mouth and reduce the risk of bacterial buildup.
- Attend Regular Check-Ups: Attend all scheduled check-ups with your general dentist and our team to monitor progress and stay on track with your treatment.
- Communicate with Your Provider: Effective communication is crucial throughout your orthodontic treatment. If you encounter any issues or concerns during your Invisalign treatment, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our offices. We can offer guidance and make adjustments as needed.
Keep in mind that a successful treatment demands commitment and diligence! Establishing and sticking to a routine will enable your appliance to effectively do its job and guide you to a successful conclusion!
A Word of Warning!
Now that we’ve given you these tips, let’s go over a couple of things to avoid doing:
- Smoking: This obviously applies more to adults and some teens, but quitting smoking during treatment or consistently removing aligners beforehand is strongly recommended, as smoking can significantly stain your aligners—not to mention how it harms you on multiple levels.
- Neglecting Oral Hygiene: Failing to floss and brush before reinserting your aligners can lead to the formation of bad breath, bacteria, plaque, and cavities.
- Ignoring Discomfort: If you encounter discomfort and sharp edges with a set of aligners, make sure to address it promptly. It can lead to soreness and slow down your progress.
Making the Commitment
With extensive experience in the Invisalign process, we are delighted to assist you throughout your journey. Successful orthodontic treatment involves close collaboration between our patients and our team. Feel free to ask any questions; we are here to help! If you’re considering this fantastic treatment, reach out to our Sturbridge office at (508) 347-7540.
