As a modern orthodontic treatment, Invisalign has become a popular way for people to align their teeth. It’s an especially great solution if you’re wanting to achieve a more beautiful, healthy smile without having to deal with clunky metal brackets and archwires.
But before you go ahead and receive Invisalign at a dental clinic near you, it’s important to know as much as you can about the process. Here at our Sylvan Lake dental clinic, we offer Invisalign to all our patients. Get in touch with our dentists to schedule a consultation today. We’ll be happy to walk you through the process, so you know what to expect.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a type of clear aligner therapy. As the name suggests, this treatment utilizes custom-made trays that slip over your top and bottom row of teeth. Due to the subtle nature of this treatment, Invisalign is sometimes referred to as invisible braces.
Your trays are typically fabricated from high-quality dental plastic. As a result, this means that they’re flexible and won’t rub or irritate your teeth or gums while you wear them.
These trays exert gentle and constant pressure on your teeth, encouraging them to shift.
You’ll have to return to see your dentist in Sylvan Lake or orthodontist approximately every four to six weeks to receive a new set of aligners. This ensures that your progress is continual.
Invisalign is a great avenue to consider for youth and adults alike. Alongside straightening your teeth, they also help to eliminate an overbite, crossbite, or underbite, gaps in your smile, and remedy overcrowding.
For more information about receiving Invisalign near you, contact our Sylvan Lake dental Centre.
Tips to Keep in Mind Before Receiving Invisalign
To help you make an educated decision about your oral health, here are six things you should keep in mind before you undergo any type of orthodontic treatment. And, as always, it’s best to speak to your dentist too.
1. Wear your aligners!
This is arguably the most significant part of your treatment. If you don’t wear your aligners, your teeth and therefore your smile, won’t be repaired. While Invisalign trays are meant to be removed when you brush, floss, and eat, it’s important to wear them as you go about your daily routine.
On average, you’re meant to wear your trays for between 20 and 22 hrs every day.
2. It’ll take a bit of time to get used to.
Whether you’ve received traditional braces or Invisalign, the presence of these devices will feel a bit strange in your mouth at first. But there’s no need to worry; you’ll get used to them in no time. If they don’t become more comfortable, be sure to let your dentist know.
3. Expect some sensitivity.
It’s not uncommon to experience a bit of sensitivity when you first receive orthodontic treatment or when you’re given a new set of trays. This feeling will fade. Sensitivity means that your treatment is working, and your teeth are shifting into a better position.
4. Don’t eat with your aligners!
As mentioned, don’t ear with your aligners in. Not only can this cause damage to your trays, but it will stain them as well. Drinking water is perfectly fine, however.
5. Keep your case with you.
When you receive Invisalign in Sylvan Lake, you’ll be given a case where you can keep your trays. Be sure to use this accordingly in order to reduce the chances of losing your trays. It will also ensure that your trays are kept clean.
6. Carry a travel toothbrush with you.
This is a good thing to consider regardless of whether you have received orthodontic treatment. That said, when you do have braces, brushing and flossing after each meal is very important to keep your mouth healthy. Tooth decay and infections can in inhibit your progress. So, especially when you’re out of the house, a travel toothbrush can be a great little tool to help you look after your teeth.
Furthermore, taking the time to brush and rinse your aligners will also ensure that your oral hygiene remains in good standing overall.
The Process of Receiving Invisalign
The process of receiving Invisalign typically takes at least two different appointments.
During your first appointment, your dentist will perform a thorough evaluation of your mouth. They’ll most likely take a series of x-rays to understand the extent to which your dental issues need to be corrected.
In addition, an advanced piece of equipment known as an intro scanner will be employed as well. This allows dentists to produce three-dimensional images of the structure of your teeth and gums by waving a handheld wand over your mouth. These images can show you not only how your specific treatment will unfold but what your smile will look like after it’s fully complete. Finally, molds will be taken from your teeth and sent to the dental lab. This is where your aligner trays are created.
Once they’re ready, you’ll return to receive them. After that, your Invisalign treatment will officially begin!
If you have any questions or concerns about the process, speak to your dentist. It’s important you feel comfortable and well taken care of throughout your treatment.
The average Invisalign treatment lasts about 12 to 18 months, but it is heavily dependent on the state of your oral health and the extent of the issues that need to be fixed. You may also require final refinements after your teeth have been straightened.
Invisalign may not be appropriate for everyone, so always be sure to follow any advice or instructions given to you by your dentist.
Are you looking to get started with Invisalign treatment today? Call or visit our website to begin. Here at Sylvan Lake Dental Centre, we understand that having a beautiful smile not only improves your oral health now and in the future, but your self-confidence as well. You deserve to look and feel your best, and we want to help you achieve that. Our staff look forward to walking with you on your dental journey.