Invisalign® Treatment Timeline
Having a straight and healthy set of teeth is a great way to leave a lasting positive impression. While not everyone is born with that perfect smile, that shouldn’t be a hindrance to getting one. In fact, there are plenty of ways that you can enhance the overall beauty of your smile through effective and proven treatments. When you meet with Doylestown and Philadelphia cosmetic dentist Dr. Bruce Wilderman of Artistic Expressions Dentistry, he will be able to determine the best option to meet your needs.
About Invisalign®
One possible treatment option for crooked teeth is Philadelphia Invisalign®. Invisalign® is a revolutionary improvement on the orthodontic options of the past. Rather than using the brackets, wires, and bands of traditional braces, Invisalign® used clear plastic aligners that are custom designed to a patient’s teeth.
How Invisalign® Works
First a digital impression is made of a patient’s teeth. Using this digital image, a treatment plan is developed and then implemented. Patients will receive a clear plastic aligner that is worn over the teeth like a retainer. This Invisalign® aligner is kept in place at all times save for when the patient is eating, drinking, or cleaning their teeth. Every two weeks, patients will receive a new Invisalign® aligner to wear. The previous aligner can be discarded.
(It should be noted that there are many financing options for cosmetic and restorative dentistry to consider if the cost of Invisalign® treatment seems initially prohibitive. Do not put a price tag on a great smile and improved dental health.)
Timeline for Invisalign® Treatment
In general, the treatment time for Invisalign® will be the same as the treatment time for traditional braces. Patients will receive new aligners as needed every two weeks and the full duration will vary depending on the complexity of the case and other factors. Generally, treatment will last between seven months to a year or a little longer.
As Invisalign® treatment goes on, there may be other cosmetic adjustments made to the teeth to ensure they look great as they’re being straightened. In addition to the main aligners for Invisalign® treatment, the use of refinement trays may be in order.
Alternatives to Invisalign®
In some cases, you may not need to undergo Invislaign® treatment and the aesthetic adjustments that you need can be achieved through other treatments. One treatment is porcelain veneers, which are thin shells of a specially crafted dental ceramic. These shells are affixed to the front portions of your teeth and help mask imperfections and provide a better appearance to your smile.
For serious dental problems related to malocclusion, you may need to undergo more traditional dental treatment that involves the use of braces and other mouthpieces and appliances. As with all instances, this will vary from patient to patient.
Is Invisalign® the right option for me?
If you would like to find out if Invisalign® is right for you, it’s important that you visit Artistic Impressions Dentistry for a full consultation. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Wilderman, contact our cosmetic dentistry practice in Doylestown today.
