What Is the Process of Getting Invisalign Treatment as an Adult?

Person holding clear orthodontic aligner tray near smiling teeth against neutral background.
By Hildebrand Orthodontics | February 14, 2023

Introduction to Invisalign

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that straightens teeth without the use of metal brackets or wires. Instead, Invisalign uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners to gradually move teeth into the desired position. Invisalign is virtually invisible, making it a popular choice for adults who are seeking a discreet way to improve their smile.

The process of getting Invisalign treatment as an adult generally takes place over the course of several months. During the initial consultation, the orthodontist will conduct a thorough examination of the patient’s mouth and teeth in order to determine if Invisalign is an appropriate treatment option. If Invisalign is deemed to be a good fit, digital scans or plaster models of the teeth will be taken in order to create a personalized treatment plan.

Once the treatment plan is finalized, the patient will be provided with a series of custom-made aligners. These aligners must be worn for at least 20 hours per day in order to be effective. The aligners are meant to be removed for eating and brushing teeth; however, they should be kept in place as much as possible in order to minimize treatment time. As treatment progresses, patients will need to switch to new aligners every few weeks in order to continue moving their teeth towards the desired position.

Most adults will complete their Invisalign treatment within 9-18 months; however, this timeline can vary depending on each individual case. After treatment

Benefits of Invisalign for Adults

The benefits of Invisalign for adults are many. First, Invisalign is much less noticeable than metal braces, so you can feel confident about your appearance during treatment. Secondly, Invisalign allows you to eat whatever you want since there are no food restrictions like there are with traditional braces. Third, Invisalign is more comfortable to wear since there are no wires or brackets that can rub against your gums and cheeks. Finally, Invisalign treatment is typically quicker and easier than traditional braces, so you can get back to your normal life sooner.

Overview of the Invisalign Process

The Invisalign process is simple and straightforward. First, you’ll meet with your orthodontist or dentist to discuss whether Invisalign is right for you. If it is, they’ll take impressions (molds) of your teeth, which will be used to create your custom-made aligners. You’ll then be given a series of aligners to wear over the course of your treatment, which typically lasts around 12 months. As you progress through the aligners, your teeth will gradually shift into their desired position. You’ll need to wear the aligners for at least 20 hours per day and visit your orthodontist or dentist every 4-6 weeks to ensure that your treatment is on track.

What to Expect During each Stage of the Process

The first stage of the Invisalign process is called the consult. 

During this appointment, your orthodontist will examine your mouth and teeth to determine if Invisalign is right for you. They will also take X-rays and photographs of your teeth. If you decide to move forward with treatment, impressions of your teeth will be made. These impressions will be used to create your custom Invisalign aligners.

The second stage is when you receive your aligners. 

You will be given a series of aligners to wear, each one slightly different from the last. You will need to wear each aligner for about two weeks before moving on to the next in the series. As you progress through the aligners, your teeth will gradually shift into their new, straight position.

The third stage is called retention. 

Once your teeth are in their new position, you will need to wear a retainer at night to keep them there. You may also need to wear a retainer during the day for the first few months after treatment. After that, you should only need to wear it at night.

The fourth and final stage is maintenance. 

Even though your treatment is complete, it’s important to visit your orthodontist for regular checkups. They can make sure your teeth are staying in their new position and address any problems early on.

Tips for Achieving the Best Results with Invisalign

If you’re considering Invisalign treatment as an adult, there are a few things you can do to ensure that you achieve the best possible results. First, it’s important to be diligent about wearing your aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours per day. This will help to ensure that your treatment progresses as quickly as possible. Additionally, be sure to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly every day, as good oral hygiene is essential for both the success of your treatment and your overall oral health. Finally, be sure to keep all of your scheduled appointments with your orthodontist so that they can monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Conclusion

Invisalign treatment is a great option for adults looking to straighten their teeth without the appearance of metal braces. The process begins with an initial consultation and examination, followed by digital impressions that are used to create custom-made aligners tailored specifically for your mouth. During the course of treatment, you will need regular check-ups with your orthodontist in order to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments. With proper care, Invisalign for adults can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted in as little as 18 months!

FAQ’S 

If you’re considering Invisalign as an adult, you may have a few questions about the process. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Invisalign treatment:

Q. How long does Invisalign treatment take?

A. Invisalign treatment typically takes 9-18 months, though every case is different. Your orthodontist will be able to give you a more specific timeline based on your individual needs.

Q. How often do I need to wear my Invisalign aligners?

A. You should wear your aligners for 20-22 hours each day in order to see the best results. You can remove them for eating and cleaning, but be sure to put them back in as soon as possible.

Q. How much does Invisalign treatment cost?

A. The cost of Invisalign treatment varies depending on the severity of your case and the length of treatment. However, it is generally comparable to the cost of traditional braces.

What are the benefits of Invisalign over traditional braces?

Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, so most people won’t even know you’re wearing them. They’re also removable for eating and cleaning, which many people find more convenient than traditional braces.