How Does Invisalign Work?
If you are considering orthodontic treatment but want to explore options outside of traditional metal braces, you may be asking yourself: "How does Invisalign work?" Invisalign treatment combines state-of-the-art materials and uniquely designed treatment options to help you achieve a straighter smile just as effectively and efficiently as traditional metal braces. Although Invisalign offers a highly advanced design and has helped many patients achieve outstanding results, a large part of its effectiveness depends on your level of commitment and participation. Patients who wear their aligners as instructed, visit their dentist every six weeks, and wear their retainers regularly after treatment can enjoy the benefits of Invisalign for many years to come.
Specially Designed Invisalign Aligners
While traditional braces use brackets and wires to gently straighten your smile, Invisalign aligners are made with SmartTrack®, a clear, thermoplastic material that is comfortable yet highly effective. Similar to custom-made teeth whitening trays, SmartTrack aligners are carefully crafted using your own impressions to fit comfortably. Unlike traditional braces, these aligners are smooth and can protect your cheeks against cuts and irritation.
During your treatment, you will transition into a new set of aligners every two weeks. Worn at least 22 hours per day, SmartTrack aligners gently force your teeth into a straighter position according to the plan designed by your dentist. Each tray is slightly adjusted from the previous tray to move your teeth a few millimeters per tray. This design is patented by Invisalign and uses controlled SmartForce® to move your teeth into their desired positions. Rather than moving all of your teeth at once, each aligner moves certain teeth at a time to help you achieve your desired results with less discomfort. In most cases, SmartForce achieves 75 percent more predictable tooth movement for patients.
Precisely Custom-Fit Trays
A Treatment Plan Unique To Your Needs
Invisalign is a unique orthodontic option because your entire treatment plan will be designed during your initial consultation. This allows your dentist to explain your proposed plan, provide an accurate treatment timeline, and show you your expected results before beginning treatment. By predicting and controlling how your teeth will move each day, your dentist can predict highly accurate results and better help you achieve your desired outcomes. During the course of your treatment, you will see your dentist approximately every six weeks to assess your progress.
Invisalign aligners are made with SmartTrack®, a clear, thermoplastic material that is comfortable yet highly effective.
With Invisalign, your treatment plan will also be tailored to address your unique concerns. Although Invisalign can effectively treat most issues including gapped teeth, crowded teeth, and bite misalignment, the only way to determine whether Invisalign can work for your condition is to schedule a consultation with your dentist. Most adults are able to achieve their desired results within twelve months of starting treatment, and some dentists offer options such as Invisalign Express to further expedite the course of your treatment.
Your Participation Affects How Invisalign Works
Your carefully designed aligners and custom treatment plan will only work well if you are committed to treatment. As aligners must be worn 22 hours per day, you are responsible for fully participating in your treatment. Neglecting to wear your aligners could have serious consequences and completely alter the course of your treatment. If your aligners no longer fit, your dentist may have to create a new treatment plan for you which can be very expensive and time-consuming. In addition, you will be responsible for wearing your Invisalign retainers after treatment to prevent your teeth from shifting back into their pre-treatment condition.
