The Invisalign process is highly customized for every patient, but it is designed to work the same way with every treatment, moving a few teeth at a time until a smile is in complete alignment. This innovative treatment has a tried-and-true system of responsibilities, and it all starts with knowing and honoring the numbers.
20 to 22 hours
Invisalign aligners must be worn 20 to 22 hours a day for the treatment to be effective. Though this sounds like a major commitment, think about if you were wearing conventional metal braces – those, of course, do not come off until your dentist removes them. With Invisalign, you have rules to follow, but you also have freedom for a few hours a day.
12 months
The average Invisalign treatment takes about 12 months to complete. This timeline will vary for each patient depending on where your teeth are now and where they need to move. Some cases will take longer and some will take less – your adherence to the treatment plan and the speed with which your teeth respond to treatment will influence the length of time you need to wear Invisalign.
2 weeks
Each set of Invisalign aligners is worn for approximately two weeks before being switched out for the next set. The aligners are carefully calibrated to make certain tooth and root movements at certain times – your Chester Hill Invisalign provider makes these determinations before your alignment efforts get underway.
18 to 30 aligners
Over the course of your treatment, you will wear between 18 and 30 aligners, though this number will vary based on the complexity of your case. You will see your dentist every six weeks or so for a check-up on your progress and to pick up the next several sets of aligners so you can change them as instructed at home.
4 to 6 times a day
On a daily basis, Invisalign should only be removed for meals, snacks, and cleanings: teeth brushing in the morning, breakfast, lunch, dinner, and brushing and flossing at night. There may be other occasions when you need to remove the aligners – you want a cup of coffee or a snack – and you may not want to take them out, but it’s important to avoid eating or drinking with Invisalign in place. The aligners could be damaged by chewing or stained by foods and beverages.
The Right Smile Makeover Route for You
Invisalign delivers an aligned, beautiful smile to patients who follow the numbers and instructions of their dentist. If you are reluctant to commit to a lengthy treatment plan but still want straight teeth, you may want to discuss other cosmetic dentistry treatments like porcelain veneers, which give you a flawless smile in all ways in just two dental visits.
Remember, though, that not only do you get a straight smile with Invisalign, you get an aligned mouth, which means a reduced likelihood of pain and a healthier set of teeth that are easier to clean and care for.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Chi Fu at Chester Hill Dentistry in Rye to discuss Invisalign and whether this cosmetic dentistry smile makeover option is right for you.