Invisalign

Invisalign® takes a modern approach to straightening teeth, using a custom-made series of aligners created for you and only you. These aligner trays are made of smooth, comfortable and virtually invisible plastic that you wear over your teeth. Wearing the aligners will gradually and gently shift your teeth into place, based on the exact movements your dentist or orthodontist plans out for you. There are no metal brackets to attach and no wires to tighten. You just pop in a new set of aligners approximately every two weeks, until your treatment is complete. You’ll achieve a great smile with little interference in your daily life. The best part about the whole process is that most people won’t even know you’re straightening your teeth.

Here’s a look at how the Invisalign process works:

1. Talk with Dr. Dobson, Invisalign Preferred Provider

Keep in mind that not all dentists and orthodontists work with Invisalign, so it’s important to you to know that both Drs. Dobson and Lanford have received the proper Invisalign training and can truly evaluate your needs and determine how Invisalign can help you.

During the consultation, our doctors will discuss your case in detail to determine if you’re a good candidate for Invisalign. Invisalign now addresses many cases, from simple to more complex. Your doctor will determine if Invisalign is right for you. This will also be your opportunity to ask any questions about your Invisalign investment, dental/orthodontic insurance, or any other concerns.

2. Create a 3-D Image of Your Teeth

We will take x-rays, pictures and impressions of your teeth, which Invisalign will use to create a digital 3-D image of them. From these images, we will map out a precise treatment plan, including the exact movements of your teeth. Using this same technology, we will even be able to show you a virtual representation of how your teeth will move with each stage of treatment and also what the expected final result will be. At this stage you will have the option to move forward with treatment or not.

3. Receive Your Custom Aligners Based On Your Personalized Treatment Plan

Based on your individual treatment plan, a series of custom-made, clear aligners is then created specifically for you. These aligners are made of a smooth, comfortable, BPA-free plastic that won’t irritate your cheeks and gums like traditional metal braces often do. Simply wear them throughout the day, and remove them when you eat or to brush and floss your teeth. As you wear each set of aligners, your teeth gently and gradually begin to shift into place. And because they’re virtually invisible, most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them.

4. Wear a New Aligner Every Two Weeks

Approximately every two weeks, you will begin wearing a new set of aligners, advancing you to the next stage of your treatment. To monitor your progress, you will also have occasional check-ups with us, usually only every six weeks or so. At every stage, you will be able to see how much closer you are to having the smile that reflects the real you.

5. Reveal Your New Smile

While every case is unique to each patient, treatment typically takes approximately a year for adults. For teens, the length of treatment is comparable to that of braces, but since your teeth won’t be covered by wires and brackets, you’ll be able to see improvement much sooner. For best results and a timely outcome, you should wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day throughout your entire treatment.