While Invisalign remains one of the best options for patients looking for straighter teeth and a more beautiful smile, the process still requires many steps and a commitment from patients in order to be successful. Our goal is to educate patients about each step in order to ensure that the treatment is optimized from start to finish. Here’s what it takes to start and finish the Invisalign treatment successfully. Please keep in mind that this is a very general treatment outline and that each treatment varies based on the patient’s dental health and history.
1. Schedule an initial consultation
During our first meeting together, we’ll take a look at your desired outcome and establish a preliminary treatment plan, based on your goals and dental health. This is a good time to ask as many questions as possible so that you understand the treatment and expectations.
2. Gather Dental Data
At your 2nd appointment, we’ll gather the ‘dental data’ we need by using a variety of means to paint a clear picture of your mouth, including photographs, x-rays, dental impressions, and/or bite registrations.
3. Fulfill Your Prescription Form
We’ll create an Invisalign prescription form that includes your dental photos, x-rays, etc. This form is sent to Invisalign so that they can start on their process.
4. Create Digital Information
Once Invisalign has your photos, x-rays, dental impressions, and/or bite registrations, they’ll perform a digital scan and create a 3-D model of your upper and bottom teeth. Once your virtual model is developed, we’ll receive a digital animation of teeth movement that will give us your desired results.
5. Approve Treatment Plan
We’ll take a thorough and detailed look at the animation and make any necessary changes to the treatment plan. We’ll also give you a chance to view the animation and see what your future smile may look like.
6. Make Your Aligners
Once we approve the final treatment plan, Invisalign will create your aligners. These are based upon a number of casts, which represent each step of movement that’s required to achieve the final outcome. Aligners can take up to 3-6 weeks to arrive at our office.
7. Start Your Treatment
Once we receive your aligners, we’re ready to start your Invisalign treatment. We’ll schedule another appointment to begin the procedure and give you an appointment timeline to complete the treatment.
If you have any lingering questions about Invisalign or if you would like to schedule a free consultation, please contact our team or make an appointment. Our incredible staff will give you the best dental care possible.