Invisalign is a customized plastic dental appliance used to straighten the teeth and jaw. It’s a popular alternative to traditional orthodontic treatments, such as metal braces, because the aligners are clear, less noticeable, and more comfortable to wear.
How Invisalign Treatment Works
Unlike traditional braces that are adhered to the teeth, Invisalign aligns the teeth using clear plastic aligner trays that can be easily removed from the mouth.
Invisalign is a treatment that typically requires a series of aligner trays to be created and used throughout the treatment plan. This way, the aligners can slowly shift your teeth into the correct position. It also allows your doctor to shift the teeth in a timed order that will achieve the best overall results.
Your Invisalign trays will be created specifically for you. At your first appointment, your dentist or orthodontist will use a scanner to take 3D digital scans of your teeth. Other x-rays and scans may also be needed so your doctor can view all of the components of your teeth, jaw, and any previous restorations.
Once the images are complete, your dentist or orthodontist will customize your treatment plan using technology to determine how your teeth will need to be aligned. Your aligners will be created and your doctor will check the fit.
Once you walk out of the clinic with your aligners on, you’ll simply need to wear them regularly. Your doctor will most likely book a follow-up appointment with you on a regular schedule. At these appointments, you’ll receive new aligners to further shift your teeth. Your treatment’s progress can also be tracked and adjusted by your doctor.
Invisalign FAQs
Who provides Invisalign in Canada?
In Canada, orthodontists and dentists with specific training can use Invisalign as a treatment method in their dental practices. Invisalign is the company that manufactures this specific type of aligner, but you can get Invisalign at a dentist or orthodontist near you. Use the 123Dentist network of dentists and orthodontists in Canada to find a clinic near you.
Who can get Invisalign?
Most people will be candidates for Invisalign because it is non-invasive and does not require sedation or surgery. However, a dentist or orthodontist may recommend another orthodontic treatment for specific conditions or situations, including traditional orthodontics (braces) or other clear plastic aligners.
In the past, Invisalign was mostly used for cosmetic purposes and patients who needed more structural alterations were not necessarily good candidates. However, with development over time, Invisalign is now able to treat more complex cases. Regardless, you should consult with your doctor about the best treatment options for you.
Will it work for me?
Invisalign is often recommended by dentists and orthodontists as a treatment option. However, like any dental device, there are some cases when the treatment plan will need to be adjusted. The results may vary depending on your specific treatment plan and the level of misalignment in your teeth or jaw.
The aligners are removable, but patients need to be willing to wear the aligners for at least 22 hours per day to ensure the treatment will be effective. If the aligners are not worn regularly, the results of the treatment may be minimal.
How long do I need to wear them?
The treatment times for Invisalign vary from patient to patient, depending on what needs to be achieved. Although some people may see results within several months to a year, others will need to use Invisalign for a more extended period of time. Regardless of the long-term duration of the treatment, it is always recommended that patients wear the aligners for at least 22 hours each day during the course of treatment.
Does Invisalign work faster or better than metal braces?
The type of orthodontic treatment that will be most efficient and effective depends on how the teeth and jaw are arranged and the end goal of the treatment plan. In many cases, Invisalign can work faster than braces, but traditional braces may still be recommended by dentists for specific situations. Your dentist or orthodontist can explain what each type of device can achieve for you and create a customized treatment timeline.
Get an Orthodontic Treatment Plan Today
Orthodontics plays an important role in oral health for many Canadians. If you’re looking for a customized treatment plan for Invisalign, search the 123Dentist network of dentists and orthodontists to find an Invisalign provider near you.