What to Expect When Getting Started With Invisalign

Whether your teeth are crooked, crowded, or have gaps between them, misalignments are common. In fact, 90% of Americans have misaligned teeth. Fortunately, Invisalign treatment can conveniently fix those issues. 

Our experienced team of dentists at Swinney Dental in Tyler, Texas, is pleased to provide these clear aligners to help you gain the benefits of straighter teeth — from a smile you love to a reduced risk for decay.

If you’re considering Invisalign for straighter teeth, here’s what you can expect.

Your first Invisalign appointment

Invisalign treatment begins with a consultation and exam. Our team will evaluate your teeth and smile, then map out a detailed digital treatment plan that visually plots out the step-by-step process of your teeth straightening. You’ll literally be able to see the movements your teeth will make on a screen. 

When you decide to go ahead with treatment, the imaging materials are sent to a lab where your aligners are created. 

Wearing your Invisalign trays

Once your Invisalign devices are ready, our team will place them over your teeth during an appointment to check the fit. If needed, they’ll adjust any edges causing discomfort to your gums. 

You’ll leave with your aligners over your teeth and continue wearing them for 20-22 hours per day. You’ll remove your trays to eat, drink anything other than water, and brush and floss. Simply place your aligners in the provided case, rinsing or brushing them before placing them back in your mouth.

You’ll wear a new set of aligners every 1-2 weeks as directed by your provider. Each new tray will feel snug or tight at first, but most people adapt well.

Invisalign results

Invisalign results vary based on factors like the complexity of your alignment issues. That said, you’ll likely notice improvements within weeks of starting your treatment. In some cases, full Invisalign treatment takes only six months. On average, Invisalign treatment is complete within 12-18 months.

You can make the most of your Invisalign results by maintaining healthy oral hygiene habits at home and scheduling routine dental cleanings. You may also benefit from continuing to wear aligners or a retainer at night after the completion of your Invisalign plan to help prevent tooth shifting over time. Our team will discuss your ideal long-term plan.

To learn more about Invisalign or get started with desired treatment, call our team at Swinney Dental today. You can also schedule an appointment using the convenient online booking feature on our website.