What to Expect When Choosing Invisalign

If you’re ready to straighten your teeth with Invisalign® clear aligners, you’re not alone. Over 17 million people have said yes to Invisalign.

But saying yes is just the first step. What happens after you choose Invisalign? 

Here’s a quick overview of what to expect when you choose Invisalign here at Smile Design Studio of Bethesda in Bethesda and Gaithersburg, Maryland.

Consultation

Our team of dentists covers everything you need to know during your one-on-one consultation. During your consultation, we examine your mouth, check the positioning of your teeth, and inspect your bite to determine if you’re a good candidate for Invisalign. 

Invisalign is a very personalized experience that can correct a variety of orthodontic concerns, from tooth crowding to gaps to malocclusion — all of which shape your specific treatment plan. 

The goal of your consultation is to ensure you get the treatment you need. In the rare case that Invisalign isn’t for you, we may recommend other options such as veneers to help you reach your goals.

Digital imaging and scanning

You can also expect digital imaging (such as X-rays) and intraoral scanning. X-rays help us analyze your bone structure and detect any potential problems (e.g., impacted teeth).

Digital scanning takes the place of physical impressions. The Invisalign system uses the iTero® intraoral scanner to take images of your teeth. This means no more goopy impressions or gagging on clunky impression trays — a big win for those with a strong gag reflex.

With your imaging (from X-rays and scans), we map out your entire treatment plan from your first tray to your final tray.

Wearing your clear aligner trays 

Once your trays arrive at our office, you come in, so we can make sure they fit, and we give you instructions for taking care of your trays. In general, you need to wear your trays for 20-22 hours each day. Plan to remove them only to eat and brush your teeth. 

You can’t eat or drink anything (except water and Invisalign mints) with your trays in place. But you can remove your trays to eat, and unlike traditional metal braces, there are no limitations on what types of food you can eat. Popcorn, pizza, candy — nothing’s off limits. Just brush your teeth after you eat and pop your trays back in. 

Throughout your treatment, you replace your set of clear aligner trays about every week or two (or as directed). Each new set of trays shifts your teeth closer and closer to their ideal location.

Taking care of your trays

In addition to brushing your teeth, you also need to clean your trays to avoid bacteria accumulation and odor. Invisalign cleaning accessories can help you keep your trays minty fresh. Follow all product instructions. 

We also guide you with tray maintenance and other hygiene tips.  

Your final step

Once you’ve achieved your dream smile with Invisalign, the next step is to keep that smile, so we order your Vivera retainer. Wear your retainer at night to keep your teeth in their new locations. 

Here’s the bottom line. When you choose Invisalign, you can expect:

• A smooth process with all of your steps laid out for you
• Comfortable trays (thanks to soft, BPA-free plastic and no metal wires)
• A beautiful smile 
• Straight teeth and a good bite 
• A boost in confidence
• A supportive team to answer your questions along the way 

What’s not to love about that? 

Get your dream smile today

On its own, Invisalign can transform your smile, but when incorporated into a smile makeover, the options are endless. 

Post-Invisalign is also a good time to brighten your smile with professional teeth whitening, especially if your once-crowded teeth hid stains in crowded areas.

If you’re ready to get started with Invisalign, schedule your consultation today. Click here to request an appointment, or give us a call.