From Consultation to Retainer: An Overview of the Invisalign Process

You have probably heard good things about Invisalign. It is discreet, convenient, and very effective for a broad range of orthodontic issues. But how exactly does Invisalign work?
In this blog post, you will receive a generalized overview of the entire process, from the initial consultation to getting a custom retainer.

Step One: Your Initial Consultation

When you arrive for your initial Invisalign consultation, you will meet with your dentist and their team. They will assess your smile and discuss your goals in order to determine if Invisalign is right for you. During this appointment, you should feel free to ask questions about the road ahead. You should also receive information about cost and payment options.

Step Two: Taking Records and Impressions

After you decide to move forward with Invisalign, your team will take detailed digital scans and photos of your teeth. These records are essential for creating your custom treatment plan and designing aligners tailored to your mouth. Digital impressions are quick and comfortable, and they offer a precise foundation for your Invisalign journey. Accurate records help ensure your aligners will fit well and deliver optimal results.

Step Three: Using Your Clear Aligners

After the folks at the Invisalign lab create your aligners, they will be shipped back to your dentist’s office. When you pick them up, you will receive instructions on how to wear and care for them. Usually, each set should be worn for 20 – 22 hours a day, for about two weeks. Keeping up with oral hygiene is very important, and your care team will let you know exactly what you need to do to maintain a healthy smile throughout your treatment.

Step Four: Attending Follow-Up Appointments

You will visit your dentist for check-in appointments periodically, usually every six to eight weeks. These visits allow your provider to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. If you have questions or notice any issues, your dentist will address them during these appointments. Staying on schedule with your check-ins helps you achieve the best possible outcome and helps to avoid delays in your results.

Step Five: Making Final Refinements

As you near the end of your aligner series, minor corrections may be made to perfect your results. Your dentist will evaluate your teeth to see if any final adjustments are needed, which may involve the creation of a few additional aligners. This step ensures your smile looks and feels exactly how you want before your results are finalized.

Step Six: Maintaining Your Results with a Retainer

After finishing with your aligners, you will transition to wearing a retainer to keep your teeth in their new positions. Retainers come in several types, including clear plastic or traditional wire options. Your dentist will provide instructions on how to care for your retainer and how long you should wear it each day. Following these guidelines should allow you to maintain your results for many years to come.

The Invisalign process is pretty straightforward. To learn more about what to expect throughout treatment, attend an initial consultation with your local provider.

Meet the Practice

At Dental Health & Wellness Boston, we are one of the premier Invisalign providers in our area. In fact, Dr. Jill Smith has been offering this treatment for more than 20 years! We combine advanced technology with personal interest with the goal of helping each patient have a positive care experience. To learn more about us or to request a consultation, contact our office at 617-742-1220.