What to Expect During Your Invisalign Treatment

Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses custom-made, clear aligners to shift teeth into proper alignment. It is gaining popularity among teens and adults because it offers an aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional braces. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign aligners are completely clear, making them virtually invisible when worn. They can also be easily removed for eating, drinking, and brushing, making them a more comfortable and convenient option for getting straighter teeth without the hassle of metal braces. 

If you’re thinking about getting Invisalign, it is helpful to understand what to expect during your consultation, fitting, and treatment. Having a good understanding of how Invisalign works and how to care for your aligners properly can help you make informed decisions about whether Invisalign is right for you — and help you avoid potential discomfort during the initial stages of treatment. 

Read on to learn more about the Invisalign treatment process and where to find the best Invisalign provider in Houston.

How Does Invisalign Work?

To understand how Invisalign works, it's helpful to understand the advanced technology and precise manufacturing process that makes them. 

When you first decide to get Invisalign clear aligners, a digital scan is taken to create a 3D model of your teeth and gums. Using this model, specialized software designs a series of custom aligners that will gradually guide the teeth into the desired position. 

Once the treatment plan is finalized, the aligner specifications are sent to a specialized laboratory, where they are fabricated using state-of-the-art materials and manufacturing techniques. The result is a series of clear aligners custom-made to fit your teeth. Each aligner is slightly different, and when you wear them in order, they gently guide your teeth into the desired positions.

What to Expect at an Invisalign Appointment

During your initial consultation for clear aligners, you can expect a comprehensive assessment of your orthodontic needs and treatment options. Typically, your orthodontist or dentist will start with a thorough examination of your teeth and bite. This information will be used to discuss if you are a good candidate for clear braces and the potential treatment plan — including the expected duration of orthodontic treatment, the estimated results, and the overall Invisalign process. 

Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, talk about any concerns, and gain a clear understanding of what your specific treatment will include. 

What Dental Issues Can Invisalign Help With?

People who can benefit from clear aligners the most are those who have mild to moderate orthodontic needs, such as: 

• Crowded teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Crossbite
• Overbite
• Open bite
• Underbite
• Misaligned teeth or misaligned bite

While Invisalign is a great solution for many people, it may not be suitable for individuals with severe orthodontic issues or certain dental conditions. Those with significant jaw misalignments or complex tooth rotations are not ideal candidates for Invisalign treatment. 

Additionally, individuals who cannot commit to wearing the aligners for the recommended duration each day or who have difficulty adhering to the treatment plan may not achieve optimal results with Invisalign. This is why prospective candidates should undergo a thorough evaluation to determine whether they are a good candidate for Invisalign treatment.

How to Wear Clear Aligners

Wearing Invisalign aligners involves wearing your custom-made aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day — removing them only for eating, drinking anything except water, and oral hygiene routines. Progressing through the series of aligners and getting the results you want in the end relies heavily on your ability to adhere to the schedule of wearing and changing your aligners. 

How to Take Care of Invisalign Aligners 

Many of our patients often ask, “How do I care for my Invisalign aligners?” Taking good care of your aligners is important for maintaining your oral hygiene and keeping your aligners clear. Here are a few tips for keeping your aligners clean: 

• Remove your aligner trays when eating to avoid food particles or damage to them.
• Drink only water while wearing your aligners to avoid staining and buildup of bacteria.
• Store your aligners in their provided container when you remove them for eating to protect them from getting lost or damaged.
• Avoid very hot water, harsh chemicals, or hard-bristled toothbrushes on your aligners, as this may damage their integrity. 
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, lukewarm water, and the specialized cleaning solution provided by Invisalign to clean your aligners at least twice a day. You can do this at the same time you would brush and floss your teeth. 
• Never use toothpaste, denture cleaner, or hand sanitizer to clean your aligners. 

Adhering to the recommended wearing schedule and practicing good aligner hygiene will ensure the effectiveness of your treatment and a bright, beautiful smile you’ll be happy with at the end of treatment.

How to Get Used to Invisalign

Adjusting to your aligners may involve some initial discomfort as the teeth start to move and you get used to wearing your aligners. Some people experience mild soreness or pressure during the first day or two of wearing a new set of aligners. You can consider using over-the-counter pain relievers or consuming softer foods during this adjustment period to manage this discomfort. As the mouth adapts to the aligners, the discomfort typically subsides. 

Where to Find the Best Invisalign Provider in Houston

Getting a smile makeover with Invisalign is a life-changing decision. Working with knowledgeable dental professionals can make the process much smoother and help you feel confident and comfortable throughout your Invisalign journey. 

With state-of-the-art imaging technology, 3D intraoral scanning equipment, and the most advanced orthodontic planning software available, Dr. Antoun and the Sapphire Smiles team are proud to be the leading Invisalign providers in Houston. With a patient-first approach to orthodontic panning, you can rest assured that you will have the most advanced treatment options and compassionate care at every stage of your smile makeover journey. 

Ready to get the smile makeover you’ve always wanted and start your Invisalign treatment in Texas?