How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign is a teeth-straightening alternative to conventional metal braces designed to fit each patient’s unique needs. The process of how Invisalign works is overall the same for everyone, with personalized tweaks that achieve the goal of an aligned smile through a discreet process that gently and consistently shifts teeth to their proper positions. At Natural Smiles in Louisville, KY, certified Invisalign provider Dr. Kiran Gill delivers smile after smile using Invisalign to qualified adults and teens.

The Technology of How Invisalign Works

One of the biggest draws of how Invisalign works is the method’s use of clear aligners. Unlike the noticeable brackets and wires of conventional orthodontics, the nearly invisible trays of Invisalign let patients enjoy the journey of perfecting their smile without drawing attention to their dental care. Here is how the technology works:

• Composition of the aligners: Invisalign trays are made of flexible thermoplastic material patented for this treatment. They are very thin and fit snugly against the upper and lower arches, blending right into your smile so they’re nearly impossible to notice.
• Delivers results in half the time: Conventional braces typically take 18 months to two or more years to complete treatment. The average length of Invisalign treatment is about one year, depending on the complexity of your misalignment. Some patients with minor problems could require even less time wearing the trays.
• Treatment process: Your dentist will teach you how to put your aligners in and remove them. You’ll receive several sets of trays at every checkup and follow your dentist’s instructions about when to switch them out, usually every two weeks. You’ll have checks about every eight weeks to measure progress and compliance.

Qualifying for Invisalign Treatment

When Invisalign works, it really works. The question, of course, is will it work for you? Here’s how to find out if you qualify for this innovative treatment:

• Dental exam and analysis: Your Louisville Invisalign provider will conduct a thorough dental exam and take digital images to observe your mouth from all angles. This will allow her to diagnose your misalignment and determine whether Invisalign is a viable treatment option.
• Review of potential treatment: Your treatment plan will be customized from beginning to end if you are deemed a good candidate for Invisalign. You’ll see how your teeth will move and in what order, discover how many trays you’ll have to wear, and learn the length of treatment time.
• Delivery of trays: Your unique Invisalign trays will be crafted at an outside dental lab specifically to your dentist’s specification based on photos, x-rays, and your examination. When the first sets of trays are delivered, your treatment begins.

How to Make Invisalign Work Properly

Your Louisville dentist relies on you to be responsible for the progress of your Invisalign treatment. You’re investing in this cosmetic dentistry so stay committed to the treatment to get the best results. Invisalign works if you put in the time and effort to make it work. Here’s how to make it happen:

• Follow the numbers: Wear the trays 20 to 22 hours a day, remove trays when eating or drinking, change aligners every two weeks, and clean your trays and teeth at least three to five times a day.
• Honor your checkups: Your treatment can’t progress or work properly if you don’t see your Louisville dentist regularly. She has your next several weeks of trays and needs to make sure your teeth are moving as designed.
• Wear your retainer: Invisalign doesn’t stop working when you wear the last set of trays. A retainer is a major part of maintaining the work that has been done to align your teeth and they keep the newly shifted bone, muscle, and teeth in place.

Can Invisalign Work for You?

Contact us and find out how Invisalign works during a consultation with Dr. Gill at Natural Smiles in Louisville. Whether you have gapped teeth, crooked teeth, or another type of misalignment, you may be an excellent candidate for this advanced treatment.