The Complete Guide to Invisalign: What to Expect and How It Works
Are you considering Invisalign as a solution to straighten your teeth? At Opelika Dental Associates, we understand that making such a decision requires a comprehensive understanding of the process. This guide will provide you with all the information you need about Invisalign, its benefits, and what to expect during the treatment.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a modern approach to teeth straightening that uses custom-made aligners created for you and only you. These aligner trays are made of smooth, comfortable, and virtually invisible plastic that you wear over your teeth. They gradually and gently shift your teeth into place, based on the exact movements your dentist plans out for you.
There are no metal brackets to attach and no wires to tighten. You just pop in a new set of aligners approximately every two weeks, until your treatment is complete. You’ll achieve a great smile with little interference to your daily life. Best of all, most people won't even know you're straightening your teeth.
Benefits of Invisalign
Invisalign offers numerous benefits over traditional braces. The aligners are removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment, plus brushing and flossing are no problem. They are also more comfortable than traditional braces, with no metal or wires, which also usually means you spend less time in your doctor's office getting adjustments.
Invisalign allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan when you start, so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete. Moreover, Invisalign aligners are not as noticeable as traditional braces. They're clear and fit snugly over your teeth, making them a much more incognito option for orthodontic treatment.
What to Expect During Invisalign Treatment
The process begins with a consultation with our experienced Opelika dentists, Dr. Makenzie Johnson and Dr. Carrie Ann Dodson. They will devise a custom treatment plan for you, which includes the exact movements of your teeth and the duration of your treatment. You will receive a series of custom-made aligners to wear every day and change at home – on average every 1-2 weeks.
While every case is unique to each patient, treatment typically takes approximately 12 to 18 months. For best results and a timely outcome, you should wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, throughout your entire treatment. We will schedule regular appointments for you to monitor your progress and ensure you are comfortable with the treatment.
After Invisalign Treatment
Once your treatment is complete, you will need to use retainers to maintain the new position of your teeth. There are different types of retainers, and Dr. Johnson or Dr. Dodson will recommend the best one for you. The goal of the retainer is to ensure that your teeth don’t shift back to their original positions.
Retainers are custom-made and should be worn at all times, except when eating and drinking, at least initially. After some time, you might be able to wear them less often. However, it’s important to follow the guidance of your dentist to ensure the best outcome.
Ready to Transform Your Smile in Opelika, AL?
If you've been considering Invisalign, this guide should give you a clearer picture of what to expect. At Opelika Dental Associates, we're dedicated to providing you with the best dental care and helping you achieve the smile you've always wanted. Don't put off having the beautiful smile that you deserve any longer. Call us today at (334) 745-4663 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Johnson or Dr. Dodson in Opelika, AL. We look forward to welcoming you to our practice and starting your journey to a healthier, more confident smile.
