Are Invisalign Clear Aligners Right for You? What to Expect from Start to Finish
Are you in search of a discreet or convenient solution to straighten your teeth but not sure where to start? At Omnia Dental, we offer Invisalign clear aligners, a virtually invisible alternative to traditional metal braces. Whether you have gaps between teeth or a misaligned smile, Invisalign may be the perfect solution for you. Here is a closer look at how it works and what you can expect.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign by Align Technology is the leading clear aligner system that continues to transform millions of smiles worldwide. It involves the use of a series of clear, custom-crafted aligner trays to gently and gradually move your teeth into their ideal positions.
You’ll wear each set of aligners for about a week or two before moving on to the next in the series, following your custom treatment plan. Your virtually invisible aligners are custom-crafted from SmartTrack, a proprietary thermoplastic material designed to move your teeth into position with exceptional precision. Most people around you will never notice you are undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign comes with no wires, no brackets, and no frequent tightening appointments. You can remove your clear aligners to eat anything you want, drink anything other than water, and brush and floss as usual. Invisalign can transform your smile with minimal impact on your daily life.
Are You a Good Candidate for Invisalign?
Invisalign treats a wide range of mild to complex orthodontic concerns, including the following:
- Crowded, crooked, or protruding teeth
- Gaps or uneven spaces between teeth
- Problems with the bite, including overbites, underbites, and crossbites
- Teeth that have shifted after previous orthodontic treatment
In some cases, more complex orthodontic concerns may still require traditional braces. Dr. Shtilman will evaluate your needs and help you determine the ideal solution to align your smile.
What Is the Invisalign Process?
Your Invisalign journey will start with a consultation with Dr. Shtilman to help you determine whether Invisalign is right for you. If you are a candidate for the innovative procedure, we use our intraoral scanner to capture digital impressions of your smile without the need for messy or gooey molds. Dr. Shtilman will create a custom treatment plan using advanced 3D imaging software, which also allows you to see a virtual preview of your expected results before ever starting treatment.
Once your custom aligners are ready, we will provide you with use instructions that may include the following:
- Make sure to wear each set of aligners for at least 20-22 hours a day to ensure your treatment stays on track
- Remove them only to eat, drink (anything but water), brush, and floss your teeth
- Switch to your next set of trays every one to two weeks following your custom treatment plan
- Come in for brief check-in appointments periodically to monitor your progress
Your Invisalign treatment length may vary based on the complexity of your concerns. Many patients complete treatment in about 12 to 18 months, although simpler cases can take less time.
What Happens After Your Last Set of Aligners?
Once you achieve the results you desire, you will need to wear custom retainers to keep your teeth in their new positions. Skipping retention is one of the most common reasons teeth shift back out of alignment, so it’s important to wear your aligners as directed. We will walk you through exactly what to expect and how to ensure your results last.
Invisalign Near Me in Buffalo Grove, IL
If you would like to learn more about aligning your smile with Invisalign,
Dr. Shtilman and her team at Omnia Dental are here to help. We are happy to answer any questions, address your concerns, and make sure you know what to expect at every step. Are you ready to achieve the beautifully aligned smile you’ve always wanted? We invite you to call us at 847-495-2292 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!