|  | Dental Health | Braces

Invisalign Treatment

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that is used to straighten the teeth. An Invisalign treatment plan is developed by using an orthodontist's treatment plan along with 3-D computer software that helps to make custom sets of plastic aligners that move teeth in small increments. Understanding the process of using Invisalign to straighten your smile can help you to decide if it is the right treatment for you or your child.

  1. Treatment Planning

    • When you visit an orthodontist for the first time, you will discuss the straightening options available. Your options may include metal braces, ceramic braces, and the Invisalign treatment. Each type of treatment has advantages and drawbacks that need to be considered when planning your orthodontic treatment. Once you have considered all of the information your orthodontist gives you, you may decide that Invisalign is right for you based on your treatment goals and budget. According to Drs. Dan and Tracy Davidian at Sedation Dental Care, your orthodontist will take impressions of your teeth and fill out an Invisalign treatment plan that is sent to Align Technology. Using the impressions, a mold is made of your teeth and is then turned into a graphical representation of your treatment plan using 3-D software. Your orthodontist will approve the images and a series of aligners will be created for you.

    Treatment Stages

    • Once your aligners are ready, you will have another appointment with your orthodontist. During this appointment, the first set of aligners will be applied to your teeth. According to Dr. Ryan Sellinger, a Manhattan cosmetic dentist, these will remain on your teeth for at least 22 hours each day, but may be removed while you eat, drink, and care for your teeth. Be sure to wear the aligners whenever you are not doing one of these things since they need to remain in place as prescribed in order to have the desired straightening effect. This set of aligners will be worn for two weeks. You will wear each remaining set of aligners for two weeks until you and your orthodontist decide that your treatment goals have been reached.

    Special Considerations

    • When selecting an orthodontist, ask if the doctor you are considering has completed an Invisalign certification seminar. According to Drs. Dan and Tracy Davidian, orthodontists must complete this seminar in order to treat patients with the Invisalign system. Ask this question before making an appointment so that you don't waste your time visiting an orthodontist who is unable to provide this service.

Braces - Related Articles