Invisalign®
Overview
At Abay Orthodontics, we utilize Invisalign® for our clear aligner system. This revolutionary orthodontic treatment option is highly popular among those who wish to straighten their smiles discreetly. The custom-designed aligners gradually shift your teeth into their ideal position, providing a comfortable and nearly invisible alternative to traditional braces. Each set of aligners is precisely crafted to your unique dental structure, ensuring optimal results with minimal disruption to your daily life.
Though clear aligners do not utilize brackets, small tooth colored attachments are still bonded to the teeth in order to facilitate appropriate tooth movement. The number, size, and location of these attachments are patient based and determined during the treatment planning phase. Patients are still seen regularly in the office to assess aligner fit, as well as to confirm that teeth are tracking according to our treatment plan.
Whether you’re looking to correct minor alignment issues or more complex dental concerns, our clear aligner therapy may offer an effective solution with predictable outcomes.
Our Clear Aligner Process
Step 1: Initial Consultation
Purpose: Determine if the patient is a suitable candidate for clear aligner treatment and discuss smile goals.
Procedure:
- Determine your main concerns and orthodontic needs
- Conduct a comprehensive oral examination
- Discuss your goals and expectations
- Explain how clear aligners work and answer any initial questions about treatment
Timeline: 45-60 minutes
Step 2: Digital Scanning & Treatment Planning
Procedure:
- Using state-of-the-art scanning technology, take detailed digital scans of the teeth and bite, eliminating the need for messy traditional impressions and providing enhanced accuracy
- Scans allow us to create a virtual model of the current position of the your teeth and allow development of a step-by-step plan for achieving the desired results
Timeline: 30-45 minutes for obtaining records; 1-2 weeks for treatment plan development
Step 3: Records and Treatment Review
Procedure:
- Present a digital simulation showing the projected movement of your teeth throughout treatment
- Allow you to see the anticipated results and ask any questions regarding treatment
Explain treatment flow and what to expect while using your aligners
Timeline: 15-20 minutes
Step 4: Aligner Delivery & Instructions
Procedure:
- Teeth are prepared and tooth colored attachments are bonded to the teeth based on your personalized treatment and customized aligner plan
- Ensure properly aligner fit and provide detailed instructions on how to wear and maintain them
- Instruction will be given on daily wear (typically 22 hours daily), how often aligners should be progressed to the next set, cleaning protocols, and what to expect throughout aligner treatment
Timeline: 60-90 minutes; aligners typically arrive 2-4 weeks after records are taken, depending on case severity and time required to treatment plan
Step 5: Progress Monitoring
Procedure:
- You must switch to new aligners according to your prescribed schedule (typically every 1-2 weeks)
- We’ll schedule regular check-up appointments to monitor progress, address any concerns, and provide additional aligners as needed
Timeline: Brief check-ups every 6-8 weeks; duration varies based on individual treatment needs
Step 6: Refinement (If Needed)
Procedure:
- If additional tooth movement is needed to achieve the ideal outcome, we may take new scans and create a series of refinement aligners to achieve the perfect smile
- At the discretion of our orthodontists, refinement aligners can be fabricated mid treatment or after a complete aligner series are worn
Timeline: Refinements can occur at any point during an aligner series; 2-3 refinements can be typical for aligner cases
Step 7: Retention
Procedure:
- Once active treatment is complete, we’ll provide custom retainers to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions
- Retainers are worn all throughout the day and all throughout the night, with exception of eating, brushing, and drinking anything but room temperature water
- Full time wear is expected for the first 6 months
- At our orthodontists’ discretion, you are then advised to wear retainers at night time for as long as you want to keep your newly aligned smile
Timeline: You are seen for retention appointments regularly, for one year after aligner series are completed; After one year you can call to be scheduled and seen as needed
Successful Patients
Use the slider to scroll on each set of images to see the Before & After transformation of patients who have completed treatment with traditional (metal or ceramic) braces.
Ideal oral hygiene before, during, and after treatment is YOUR responsibility in order to have a beautiful, healthy smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do clear aligners work?
Clear aligners use controlled force to gradually move teeth into their desired position. Each set of aligners is slightly different from the previous one, incrementally shifting your teeth according to your customized treatment plan. The aligners put gentle pressure on specific teeth at specific times to guide them into alignment.
2. Are clear aligners noticeable?
One of the primary benefits of clear aligners is their discreet appearance. Made from transparent, medical-grade plastic, they’re near invisible when worn. Many people do not notice you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment unless you tell them.
3. How long does clear aligner treatment take?
Treatment duration varies based on the complexity of your case and your compliance with wearing the aligners as directed. Treatment length is similar to traditional braces where most cases can take about 2 years, depending on how severe cases are at the start. During your consultation, we’ll provide an estimated timeline specific to your needs.
4. Is clear aligner treatment painful?
Most patients experience mild discomfort or pressure for a few days when switching to a new set of aligners. This is a sign that the aligners are working to move your teeth. Any discomfort typically subsides within a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary.
5. Can I eat and drink normally with clear aligners?
You’ll need to remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything besides room temperature water. This prevents staining and damage to the aligners. After eating, brush your teeth or at least rinse before reinserting the aligners to maintain good oral hygiene.
6. How often do I need to wear my aligners?
For optimal results, clear aligners should be worn 22 hours per day. They should only be removed for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene routines.
7. What happens if I lose or break an aligner?
If you lose or break an aligner, contact our office immediately. Depending on how long you’ve been wearing that particular set, we may advise you to move to the next set in your series or order a replacement. Never move backward to a previous set without consulting us first.
8. How do I clean my aligners?
Clean your aligners daily by gently brushing them with a soft toothbrush, water and soap (or toothpaste). Avoid using hot water, which could warp the plastic. We also offer specialized cleaning products designed specifically for clear aligners.
9. Will clear aligners affect my speech?
Some patients experience a slight lisp when they first begin wearing clear aligners. This typically resolves within a few days as you adjust to wearing them.
10. Am I a good candidate for clear aligner treatment?
Clear aligners can effectively treat many orthodontic issues, including crowded teeth, gaps, and certain bite problems. However, they may not be suitable for extremely complex cases. During your consultation, we’ll determine whether clear aligners are appropriate for your specific needs or if alternative treatments would better serve you.
11. What happens after my treatment is complete?
After completing your clear aligner treatment, you’ll need to wear retainers to maintain your results. Initially, you’ll wear retainers full-time, gradually transitioning to nighttime wear only. Consistent retainer use is essential for preventing teeth from shifting back to their pre-treatment positions.
12. How much does clear aligner treatment cost?
Please feel free to contact our office and schedule a complimentary orthodontic evaluation.
