What To Expect With The Process Of Getting And Wearing Clear Aligner Braces
Posted on: 3 September 2018
Share
If you have teeth that are out of alignment and you want to use the Invisalign trays to correct your smile, you may be wondering what to expect. The first step is to find a dentist who provides the Invisalign service and make sure you are a match for the aligner type of braces. Here is a quick overview of what you can expect if you decide to get the clear aligner trays to treat your dental problem.
X-rays And Molds Are Made
Aligner trays are custom made for your mouth, so the dentist will take an x-ray of your teeth along with photos. In addition, a mold will be taken to act as a guide for making the trays. Your dentist has access to software that creates a digital image of your teeth. He or she can use this to create a series of images that give you an idea of how your treatment will progress over the weeks and months to come. The dental lab also uses the images to make the series of aligner trays. This process might take a few weeks.
The First Trays Are Inserted
The process of using the clear aligner trays involves changing the trays every couple of weeks so your teeth are always under pressure to move into their new positions. Your dentist fits you with the first set of trays to ensure they fit you properly and that you know how to use them. You'll get the new trays on a predetermined schedule and you can put them in yourself. However, you'll still need to see your dentist frequently so your progress can be monitored.
Regular Dental Care Is Maintained
One advantage of wearing Invisalign over traditional metal braces is that you can remove the trays to brush and floss your teeth. You can remove the trays for a short time, but they need to be worn most of the day or you won't see progress. In addition to frequent checks by the dentist, you'll also have your teeth cleaned as usual so you can prevent cavities and other problems from developing. The complete series of trays is delivered to your dentist at the beginning of your treatment, but it's possible you'll need additional trays made as your treatment ends to complete the proper positioning of your teeth.
A Retainer Completes The Process
Once your teeth are aligned the way your dentist has determined is best, you'll stop wearing the aligner trays, but you'll need to switch to wearing a retainer. It's important to wear the retainer as long as instructed by your dentist or your teeth may shift out of alignment and all your work will be for nothing. You may need to wear the retainer all day at first and then gradually reduce the time you wear it.
Clear aligner trays are convenient and make wearing braces more tolerable. If you want to straighten your teeth, talk to your dentist about getting these clear braces so you can improve your smile without having to wear metal braces that make you feel self-conscious at work or during social gatherings.