April 28, 2021
Do you wish you had straighter teeth, but hate the idea of having a mouth full of metal wires and brackets? If so, then Invisalign might be for you! The unique Invisalign treatment process in Allen makes it easier than ever to straighten your smile and correct bite alignment issues. Read on as we go over it step-by-step so you know what to expect on your journey towards a straighter, healthier set of pearly whites!
Step 1: Consultation
Just like with any other cosmetic or orthodontic service, your first step will be to schedule a consultation with your dentist. They’ll take the time to get to know your goals for your smile, then they’ll inspect your teeth and jaws to make sure that Invisalign can help you get the results you’re looking for. Invisalign can correct mild to moderate orthodontic issues, but more severe problems may be better addressed with metal braces. Additionally, your smile will need to be free of tooth decay and gum disease before beginning Invisalign.
Step 2: Treatment Planning
Once you’ve completed any necessary preliminary treatments, it will be time to plan out your treatment. First, your dentist will take impressions of your mouth. This information will be used to create a series of Invisalign aligners that gradually shift your teeth into alignment.
Step 3: Getting Your Aligners
When your first set of aligners have been created, you’ll try them on so your dentist can make sure they fit properly. If needed, they can make some minor adjustments to ensure they’re comfortable to wear. Then, your dentist will demonstrate how to put in your aligners, take them out, clean them, care for them, and handle them in general.
Step 4: Follow-Up Appointments
In the following months, you’ll wear your aligners for 20-22 hours a day for about two weeks before switching to the next set in the series. Every few weeks (typically every 6-8 weeks) you’ll return to your dentist’s office for periodic checkups. During these short, easy visits, they’ll take a look at your progress to make sure everything is on track and send you home with your next several set of aligners.
Step 5: Retainer Fitting
After you’ve worn your entire series of aligners and your teeth have reached their ideal positions, there is one last step to complete for your Invisalign treatment: getting your retainer. Retainers help hold your teeth in their new positions as your jawbone continues to heal and as your mouth naturally changes shape over time. As long as you follow your dentist’s instructions on wearing and caring for your retainer, you can easily expect to enjoy your newly straightened smile for life!
About the Author
Dr. Christina Blacher of PA Dental Arts is passionate about helping the smiles of Allen and the surrounding communities look and feel their best for a lifetime. She’s completed advanced training in numerous topics, including Invisalign, and is considered an Invisalign Preferred Provider. From her friendly personality, variety of treatments, and special offers, she makes it easy for her patients to get the beautiful smiles they deserve! If you’re interested in Invisalign, feel free to reach out to her via her website or at (214) 383-5511.