Invisalign has dramatically transformed the field of orthodontics. For decades, the primary method of straightening teeth was orthodontic braces, which use metal wires and brackets to push and pull teeth into alignment. Invisalign does away with traditional braces, instead using a system of clear plastic aligners that gradually shift your teeth into the positions planned by Dr. Roisman. Here's how Invisalign works and what to expect throughout your treatment.
Your First Appointment
Dr. Roisman will make sure Invisalign is a good fit for your needs when you come in for your initial consultation appointment. While Invisalign is effective for most patients, conventional braces are still the best solution for some complex orthodontic issues.
Assuming you're a candidate for Invisalign aligner therapy, the first step is to take digital impressions of your teeth and bite. These scans take seconds to create and provide a more accurate model of your mouth than messy, uncomfortable impressions taken with trays and impression material.
Dr. Roisman will utilize these images to generate a three-dimensional model of your smile on our computers. You'll get a sneak peek of what your teeth will look like once your treatment is complete, but more importantly, this model will help Dr. Roisman plan each step of your treatment. Every set of aligners applies gentle pressure to your teeth, gradually moving them closer to the beautiful smile you've always wanted.
Wearing Your Invisalign Aligners
We'll send your treatment plan to Invisalign, where your aligners will be fabricated. Treatment starts as soon as we receive your aligners from Invisalign. You'll switch to a new set of aligners every two weeks, or as recommended by Dr. Roisman. Invisalign gently and predictably shifts your teeth, and many of our patients who have previously worn traditional braces find that Invisalign aligners are far more comfortable.
It's critical to wear your clear aligners for at least 22 hours per day, or better yet, only take them out when brushing, flossing, eating, or drinking anything other than water. Because Invisalign only works when you wear it, the longer you have your aligners in each day, the sooner you'll be able to complete your treatment.
Dr. Roisman will see you in our office every four to six weeks to ensure that your orthodontic treatment is on track and that your teeth are moving as expected. These appointments are shorter and less painful than those you might have with traditional braces, but they're just as important—Invisalign requires supervision from a dentist to ensure that your smile is both beautiful and healthy at the end of treatment.
Your Invisalign Results
The length of your Invisalign treatment is determined by your orthodontic case and your willingness to follow our recommendations, although most patients have a treatment time somewhere between 12 and 18 months. Your Invisalign results are permanent as long as you maintain them, which means wearing retainers once you’re done with aligner therapy.
Vivera retainers are made with clear plastic, similar to your aligners, but with a slightly thicker material for added durability. At first, you'll wear your retainers every day, just as you did with your aligners, but after a few weeks, you'll only need to wear them at night, and then only a few times a week to keep your smile looking perfect for decades to come.
Learn More About Invisalign
Are you interested in learning more about Invisalign? Contact us today at 203-227-6338 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Roisman.