How Does Invisalign Work?

Straight teeth and a healthy bite aren’t always a given. Sometimes patients will need to go through orthodontic treatment to correct misalignment issues that affect both their confidence and their oral health.

A popular type of orthodontic treatment is Invisalign. Unlike traditional metal braces, these clear aligners provide a discreet path toward a straight smile.

But how does Invisalign actually work? Is it as effective as braces? Check out this short blog post to find out 

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a treatment that requires wearing clear aligners to slowly reposition the teeth. They work by applying constant pressure to the mouth and moving the teeth into a better position, so they are quite similar to how braces work. 

Throughout your treatment, you will need to wear multiple sets of aligners. The exact number depends on your specific alignment issues. For best results, you will need to wear your aligners for at least 20–22 hours every day. 

The Invisalign Treatment Process: What to Expect

Invisalign treatment unfolds in a few key steps:

 1. Initial Consultation

First, you’ll need to see a Long Beach dentist for an Invisalign consultation to see if you’re a good candidate for them. Though effective for mild to moderate issues, clear aligners can’t treat severe cases of misalignment, for which braces are still necessary.

But if you are a good candidate, your clear braces specialist will scan your mouth and send the images to the Invisalign lab, where your custom trays are made.

 2. Picking Up Your Trays 

Your Invisalign treatment starts the moment you pick up your first set of aligners. After you put them on, you’ll also receive a few instructions you need to follow to get the best results:

• Never drink or eat anything with the trays on.
• Clean your mouth before placing the aligners back in.
• Brush your teeth and clean your aligners every day.
• Wear them for at least 20–22 hours daily.
• Always keep the aligners in their special case when you’re not wearing them.

3. Follow-up Appointments

You’ll switch to new Invisalign trays weekly or biweekly, depending on your case and how well your teeth respond to the treatment.

The process is closely supervised by your dentist to make sure your alignment issues are properly addressed. 

4. End of Treatment and Getting Your Retainers 

Once the treatment is over and your smile is perfectly straight, you’ll be fitted for retainers that ensure your teeth don’t go back to their original position.

You’ll wear your retainers every night for the first year, and then once every 3–5 nights. But for the most part, retainers will be a permanent presence in your life if you want to keep your Invisalign results. 

Interested in Invisalign? Schedule An Appointment At Heartwell Dental

Come see Dr. Abraam Girgis to find out if Invisalign is the right solution for you!

Schedule a consultation at Heartwell Dental online, or call us at (562) 421-9411 today.

‍