Invisalign & Clear Aligners, GP Provider

Invisalign is a clear aligner system that uses a series of custom-made, removable plastic trays to gradually move teeth. Each set of aligners is worn for about one to two weeks before moving to the next set in the series, with each tray applying gentle, controlled pressure to shift teeth a little closer to the planned position.

Invisalign treatment at this office is provided by a general dentist as a GP provider, not by a licensed specialist in orthodontics. Invisalign is a registered trademark of Align Technology. Results vary from case to case, and not every orthodontic concern can be addressed with aligners alone.

1. 1

   Consultation and assessment

   The dentist examines your teeth, talks about your goals, and decides whether clear aligners are appropriate for your case. Not all crowding, spacing, or bite issues can be treated with aligners, so a thorough assessment is needed to give you accurate information.

2. 2

   Digital scan and treatment planning

   Digital impressions or scans of your teeth are used to build a 3D treatment plan showing how your teeth are expected to move through each stage. Your custom aligners are then made from this plan.

3. 3

   Wearing your aligners

   You wear each set for about one to two weeks, working through the series. Aligners should be worn 20 to 22 hours a day and taken out only for eating, drinking anything other than water, and brushing. Consistency is essential: results depend on wearing them as prescribed.

4. 4

   Check-in appointments

   Regular appointments at the office let the dentist monitor your progress, make any needed adjustments, and give you your next sets of aligners.

Clear aligners can be a good option for adults and older teens with mild to moderate crowding, spacing, or certain bite issues. They are generally less effective for severe malocclusion, significant bite correction, or cases that need complex tooth movement. A consultation is needed to find out whether your case is a fit for this type of treatment.

• Removable: aligners come out for eating, so there are no food restrictions. They also come out for brushing and flossing, which makes it easier to keep your teeth clean during treatment.
• Discreet: the clear plastic is nearly invisible when worn, which many patients appreciate day to day.
• No brackets or wires: there is no hardware to irritate the cheeks or lips, and no wire that can come loose.

Clear aligner treatment depends heavily on wearing the aligners as directed. They need to be worn 20 to 22 hours a day and removed only for eating and oral hygiene. Wearing them for less time will slow or stop the planned tooth movement and can make treatment take longer. This is an important thing to consider before you start.

Once aligner treatment is finished, teeth naturally tend to drift back toward where they started. Wearing retainers as the dentist directs is essential to keep your results. Retainer needs vary, and the dentist will advise on the right schedule for you.