Are you considering Invisalign? Get an overview of the Invisalign process, from start to finish, in this detailed guide to achieving a beautiful smile.

What Is Invisalign?

What is the Invisalign meaning? Well, it's a mashup of the words "invisible" and "align."

As you may have guessed, it's an innovative way to straighten your teeth. Instead of using the commonly seen metal bracket braces, you wear clear Invisalign retainers instead.

What does this mean for you?

For one, practically no one will know you're going through teeth straightening. If you're very self-conscious, then Invisalign can be great for you.

Even if someone looks closely at your teeth, it'll be extremely difficult for them to tell that there's even anything on your teeth. On the other hand, metal braces can be spotted from a mile away.

Also, you can remove these trays whenever you wish. While it's true that you need to wear your retainers for at least 20 hours a day, you'll still have the freedom to remove them when you eat, drink, or just want to take a small break. This means there are fewer restrictions on what you can eat and drink.

In addition, these trays are more comfortable. They're made specifically to fit your teeth, plus they don't have metal brackets and wires that irritate the insides of your mouth and lips.

Lastly, the treatment time for Invisalign is usually much shorter than for metal braces. So you don't have to spend as long going through treatment.

Invisalign isn't all that much more expensive than traditional braces either. So by spending just a little more, you can get more comfort and straighten your teeth in less time.

Who's a Good Candidate?

If you feel like you have the discipline to wear your Invisalign retainers for at least 20 hours a day, then that's a great start.

Good candidates are also those with only minor orthodontic problems. If yours are serious or severe, then Invisalign won't be a good option. Instead, your dentist may suggest that you go with metal bracket braces.

Again, people who want to be inconspicuous about teeth straightening are good candidates. People who play full-contact sports are as well, since they can remove these retainers whenever they're on the field or court.

Also, if you lead a very hectic and busy life, you might be a better candidate for Invisalign than for traditional braces. This is because it requires fewer appointments.

The Invisalign Process

So you're now convinced that you should get Invisalign and you feel like you're a good candidate. What's the Invisalign process like then? We'll explain in detail below.

Going to Your First Appointment

The first appointment is where you'll get a thorough exam from your dentist. They'll get your full dental history, as well as your medical one. Your dentist will then have a discussion about your lifestyle.

From there, they can determine whether or not you're a good candidate.

If they give you the go-ahead, then the next thing you'll discuss is what your treatment schedule will look like. Your dentist will also go over when you need to see them and how to take care of your retainers.

Making a Mold of Your Mouth

As we've mentioned before, Invisalign retainers are made to fit your unique teeth. This is done by taking a mold of your mouth. This can be done at either your initial appointment or a second one.

Many of today's dentists take digital molds. This means that instead of using the traditional impression putty, they'll generate a mold of your mouth through a combination of photos, digital scans, and x-rays.

Once they have everything they need, they'll send these images to a lab so your retainers can be made.

Fitting the Retainers

When your dentist receives the retainers, they'll first check that they fit before they send you home with them. This may involve using attachments on your teeth so they stay put better.

Your dentist will then give you all the instructions you need to take good care of your dental hygiene and your retainers.

Going for Checkups

Because your teeth are constantly moving with the retainers, it's vital that your dentist checks up on your progress to ensure it's going along smoothly. They'll be able to tell you if you can progress to the next retainer or not.

However, this doesn't necessarily mean you have to get their approval before switching trays. Stick to your treatment plan, go to your checkups, and your dentist will let you know if your original treatment plan needs to be altered or not.

Ask Your Dentist About Invisalign

Now that you know all about Invisalign, doesn't it sound like the perfect way to straighten your teeth? This is especially true when you consider that it's a lot more inconspicuous than traditional braces. Plus, they're definitely not as uncomfortable!

So if you're interested in the Invisalign process, it's about time you ask your doctor if it's right for you. If they find that you're a good candidate, then the next step is to embark on your teeth straightening journey!

Do you have any more questions about Invisalign or do you want to get started with a dentist in Columbia, IL? Then make an appointment with us now.

Advanced Dental Care & Orthodontics offers Invisalign services to Columbia, IL and the surrounding areas. We are the "dentist near me" that you need!