What to Expect from Your Orthodontic Treatment with Invisalign Clear Braces
Invisalign clear braces are a discreet way to correct a misaligned bite and crooked, gapped or overcrowded teeth. These removable aligners allow you to enjoy regular foods without worrying about crumbs in metal wires and brackets. Adults and teens can achieve a straighter smile with Invisalign at Pearce Dental Group in Cincinnati.
The Consultation
Your Invisalign journey starts with a consultation for orthodontic treatment. Our orthodontists examine your misaligned bite and teeth, collecting impressions and information to determine the best approach for your needs.
A digital image of your teeth, X-rays and photographs is used to form a 3D simulation of your Invisalign treatment. The 3D model shows your smile’s progress using a series of clear aligners that gently guide the teeth into the desired position. Dr. Pearce uses iTero technology to create a simulation of your final Invisalign results.
Getting Your Clear Aligners
Dr. Pearce or another dental team member will provide you with your first set of aligners when they arrive at our office. Power ridges may be necessary to help move your teeth, which are molded pieces of plastic placed along the gumline to adjust tooth movement outward or inward. SmartForce attachments are tooth-colored pieces bonded to your teeth that help the aligner increase pressure and grip on specific teeth. These Invisalign tools can streamline the orthodontic process and ensure your teeth land in their ideal location at the end of treatment.
You will get a new set of aligners each week and may be sent home with the next in the series. One of the many benefits of Invisalign is that it requires far fewer orthodontic appointments than traditional metal braces. While you will have visits to monitor your progress, these check-ins are more comfortable than tightening the brackets of metal orthodontics.
Adjusting to Daily Life with Invisalign
It may take you a few days to get used to clear aligners. Some people feel mild discomfort when they start Invisalign or switch to the next set of aligners because the teeth are shifting more at this time. Wearing your Invisalign aligners for 22 hours a day is the best way to reach a straighter smile.
Whenever you need to eat or drink something other than water, remove the clear aligners and place them in a container to avoid losing them or accidentally throwing them away. Do not put the aligners back in your mouth until you’ve thoroughly flossed and brushed your teeth, because bacteria can develop and stick to the inside of the aligners. Follow with mouthwash to prevent bad breath and cavities, rinse your aligners with cold water and place them back in position.
Cleaning your aligners is another necessary step but steer clear of hot water and abrasive toothpaste. Invisalign makes denture crystals, but any denture cleaner brand will work to clear away bacteria and buildup. Wash them once a day with denture cleaner, and rinse with cold water and a soft-bristled toothbrush before you place them back in your mouth.
We recommend holding onto the previous set of aligners for an extra week in case the new aligners are damaged or lost. With time, you’ll get used to wearing Invisalign, and caring for the aligners will become second nature.
A Straighter, Beautiful Smile
Any attachments bonded to your teeth are removed at the end of your treatment, which could last as few as six months. Dr. Pearce and our dental team will make sure your teeth moved properly and will take a new impression to create your retainer. You will need to wear a retainer at night after Invisalign to maintain your straight smile and prevent teeth from shifting out of place.
If you’re interested in a straighter smile with Invisalign, contact Pearce Dental Group in Cincinnati at (513) 651-0110 or fill out our online contact form.
