The Invisalign process is straightforward and customized to each patient's unique dental needs. Here's a step-by-step guide to how Invisalign works, from consultation to completion.

1. Initial Consultation

Your journey with Invisalign begins with an initial consultation with a qualified orthodontist or dentist in Niles, IL. During this visit, the dentist will assess your teeth and determine whether Invisalign is the right treatment for you.

Not everyone is a candidate for Invisalign, particularly if you have severe misalignment or certain jaw issues that require more complex interventions.

Once you're deemed a suitable candidate, the orthodontist will take digital impressions of your teeth using advanced 3D imaging technology. These impressions allow the dentist to create a customized treatment plan outlining the movement of your teeth throughout treatment.

2. Custom Treatment Plan

Using the 3D images, your orthodontist will create a digital map of your teeth's current position and the desired final position. This plan will guide the movement of your teeth over time, showing a detailed step-by-step process of how the aligners will shift your teeth into place.

The treatment plan will also estimate the total time required for the process, which typically ranges from 12 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of your case.

Each aligner is designed to make incremental adjustments to your teeth, moving them slightly with each new set of aligners you wear. You'll receive multiple sets of aligners to be worn for approximately two weeks at a time before switching to the next set.

3. Wearing the Aligners

Once your custom aligners are ready, your orthodontist will provide you with the first set. You'll need to wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, only removing them when eating, drinking (anything other than water), brushing, or flossing.

Consistency is key with Invisalign. If you don't wear the aligners as recommended, it can prolong the treatment time.

The aligners are made of smooth, BPA-free plastic that fits snugly over your teeth. Since they are clear and custom-fitted, most people won't notice you're wearing them, making Invisalign a popular choice for adults and teens who want to maintain a natural appearance throughout the process.

4. Changing Aligners

Every one to two weeks, you'll switch to a new set of aligners, which will continue to gradually move your teeth toward their final position. Each aligner is slightly different from the last, as it applies gentle pressure to specific teeth to guide them into alignment.

While some patients may experience slight discomfort or pressure when switching to a new set of aligners, this is normal and usually subsides within a day or two.

You'll typically visit your orthodontist every six to eight weeks to monitor your progress and ensure the treatment is on track. These visits are much less frequent than the regular adjustments required with traditional braces, which is one of the reasons patients prefer Invisalign.

5. Final Results

Once you've completed the series of aligners, your teeth will have moved into their new, straight position. At this point, your orthodontist will evaluate the results and determine if any refinements are needed. In some cases, additional aligners may be required to achieve the best possible outcome.

After your treatment is complete, you'll be given retainers to wear at night. These retainers help maintain the results and prevent your teeth from shifting back into their original positions. Retainers are typically worn indefinitely, but the frequency will decrease over time based on your orthodontist's recommendation.

Niles, IL, offers a variety of experienced dental specialists who specialize in Invisalign treatment. Whether you're an adult looking to improve your smile or a teen seeking an alternative to traditional braces, there are several reasons why Invisalign might be the right choice for you.

1. Discreet Appearance

One of the primary reasons patients choose Invisalign is because of its nearly invisible appearance. Traditional metal braces can be bulky and noticeable, while Invisalign aligners are clear and discreet, allowing you to smile confidently throughout the treatment process.

2. Comfort and Convenience

Invisalign aligners are custom-made for your teeth, ensuring a comfortable fit. The smooth plastic material eliminates the risk of painful brackets or wires poking your mouth, a common issue with metal braces.

Additionally, since Invisalign aligners are removable, you can eat whatever you like without restrictions, unlike traditional braces that often come with food limitations.

3. Easy Maintenance

Maintaining good oral hygiene is much easier with Invisalign than with traditional braces. You can remove the aligners to brush and floss your teeth normally, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

The aligners themselves can be cleaned using warm water and a toothbrush or special Invisalign cleaning crystals to keep them clear and free of bacteria.

4. Fewer Office Visits

Invisalign requires fewer in-office visits than traditional braces. Because the aligners are designed to be changed every one to two weeks at home, you won't need to visit the orthodontist for frequent adjustments. You'll typically only need to schedule checkups every six to eight weeks, making it a convenient option for busy individuals.

Now that you understand the answer to the question, "How does Invisalign work?" you are ready to go through the process yourself. 



Dental Specialists of Niles are skilled and experienced at Invisalign treatment, helping you to straighten your teeth easily and effectively and give you the perfect smile and confidence you deserve. Ready to learn more? Contact our team today.

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