Our Holyoke 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.
Our Holyoke, MA, dentist wants you to understand how the Invisalign process works and how it will help you achieve the straight smile you deserve. Contact our Holyoke dental office 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 Holyoke 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, and 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, a 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 Holyoke 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. Eric Chen 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 Visits
Throughout the Invisalign treatment process, you’ll have follow-up appointments every six to eight weeks. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most patients experience some degree of discomfort when they first start wearing Invisalign trays. This discomfort is typically mild and goes away within a few days. As you switch to new aligners, you may experience some pressure or soreness, but this is normal and is a sign that the treatment is working.
Invisalign aligners are a great option for many patients but may not be suitable for everyone. Your Invisalign provider will evaluate your orthodontic needs during your initial consultation and determine if Invisalign is the best option for your specific case.
Invisalign has made significant advancements and can treat many orthodontic issues, including moderate overcrowding and misalignment. However, severe cases may still require traditional braces or another orthodontic treatment option.
Unlock Your Perfect Smile
Don’t let the fear of traditional metal braces hold you back from achieving the smile of your dreams. With Invisalign, you can straighten your teeth discreetly and comfortably. If you’re ready to take the first step towards a confident, healthy smile, call us today at (413) 538-7400 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Chen and begin the Invisalign process.
Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve your dental goals, and we can’t wait to help you transform your smile with Invisalign in Holyoke. We serve patients in the Greater Springfield area, including Westfield, Southampton, South Hadley, and nearby Western Massachusetts communities.
