How Does Invisalign Work?

If you’d like straighter teeth, there are options other than wearing the metal braces. In this post, our Ottawa dentists explain how Invisalign clear aligners can help to align your smile.

How does Invisalign work?

Have you ever watched your favourite celebrities in movies or on TV and wished you could have straighter teeth, but dreaded the thought of seeing metal brackets every time you looked in the mirror? You’re not alone. Fortunately, Invisalign Clear Aligners are an option for many patients.

When worn, Invisalign clear aligners are difficult to see, custom-made for your teeth, and contain no metal or wires that could poke the inside of your mouth. You'll be able to straighten your teeth discreetly while also treating a variety of dental health issues, such as:

• Underbites
• Overbites
• Crossbites
• Widely spaced teeth
• Clicking jaws

Step 1: An In-Depth Assessment & Treatment Plan

Your dentist will perform an oral exam and assessment during your initial appointment to determine whether you are a good candidate for Invisalign treatment. If you are, a treatment plan will be devised to gradually shift your teeth into their proper positions.

Before beginning treatment, we’ll take X-rays and use iTero scanning technology to create models of your teeth. Throughout the process, we review your progress and record the movement of your teeth as they change.

Step 2: Start Wearing Your Invisalign Trays

You will receive a series of aligners for your treatment. These will be switched out every other week or so as treatment progresses. With each new aligner, your teeth will be slightly straighter than with your previous tray (your teeth should shift up to 0.25 millimetres per tray).

The aligners are made of clear plastic and worn over your teeth. They will gently and gradually move your teeth into place, following your customized treatment plan.

Once your clear aligners are in place, you must wear them for approximately 22 hours per day. You should only take them out to brush, floss, or eat. Once your final trays are removed, you'll finish the process by wearing a retainer full-time for a set period of time, then gradually reducing your use on a schedule determined by your dentist.

Step 3: A Straighter Smile

Invisalign can give you a more confident smile and straighter teeth (as long as you follow your dentist's instructions at all times!). Because straighter teeth are easier to clean, orthodontic treatment can improve your oral health and reduce your risk of tooth decay.

Are your teeth crooked or widely spaced? Contact our Ottawa dentists to schedule an appointment at Green Bank Hunt Club and find out if you are a candidate for treatment with Invisalign clear aligners.