The Invisalign® Process in Petoskey, MI
Our Petoskey, MI Dentist Walks You Through the Invisalign® Process
Invisalign® has become increasingly popular among individuals seeking a more discreet and comfortable way to straighten their teeth. It’s an excellent alternative to metal braces and treatment is often quicker.
Dr. Klym, our Petoskey, MI dentist wants you to understand how the Invisalign process works and how it will help you achieve the straight smile you deserve. Contact our dental office at (231) 347-2188 today to learn more about Invisalign and to set up your consultation.
Your Initial Consultation
The first step in the Invisalign process is a consultation with one of our Petoskey, MI Invisalign providers. During this appointment, they’ll examine your teeth, bite, and jaws to determine whether Invisalign is a suitable treatment option for your specific case and oral health goals.
They’ll take digital impressions of your teeth using a 3D scanner to create a virtual model of your mouth. This technology eliminates the need for messy, bad-tasting, uncomfortable dental impressions. The 3D model of your mouth will help our dentists create a customized treatment plan that addresses your unique dental needs.
Creating and Molding the Custom Clear Aligners
Once we’ve determined that Invisalign is right for you, your custom treatment plan is created. This plan will include a series of clear plastic aligner trays that gradually shift your teeth into the desired position.
To create the Invisalign aligners, the 3D model of your mouth is used to ensure the trays are crafted specifically for you. The trays are made of a comfortable, BPA-free plastic material that’s easy to clean and maintain. After the aligners have been designed, they’ll send the specifications to the Invisalign laboratory. The lab will then manufacture them and send them back to our dental office for you to come and pick up.
First Fitting
Your first fitting appointment will be scheduled once your aligners are ready. During this appointment, our Seattle dentist will give you your first set of clear aligners and show you how to properly wear and care for them. If the fitting is off, adjustments will be made.
Wearing Your Invisalign Trays
Wearing your Invisalign trays is easy, but you’ll need to follow the instructions provided by Dr. Klym to ensure that the treatment process is as effective as possible. You’ll need to wear your new aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day, only removing them to eat, drink, brush your teeth, and floss. Clean your trays daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap or a recommended cleaning solution.
Every two weeks, you’ll switch to a new set of aligners, which will continue to gradually shift your teeth into their desired position. Our dentist will monitor your progress throughout your treatment to ensure that everything is going smoothly.
Follow-Up
Throughout the Invisalign treatment process, you’ll have follow-up appointments. These appointments are necessary to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned. During your follow-up appointments, our dentist will check the progress of your teeth and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment.
After Treatment Retainers
After 12 to 18 months, your treatment will be complete. Once your teeth have reached their final aligned position, you’ll receive customized retainers to wear to keep your teeth stable. You’ll need to wear retainers full-time for the first few months, then nightly after that.
