What to Expect During Invisalign Treatment

Embarking on your Invisalign journey with Dr. Giovanni Aldama is an exciting step toward achieving a healthier, more confident smile. Understanding what to expect during your treatment can help you feel more comfortable and prepared. Here’s a comprehensive guide to walk you through the Invisalign process from start to finish.

1. Initial Consultation

Comprehensive Assessment

• Dental Examination: Dr. Aldama will perform a thorough dental exam to assess your oral health and determine if Invisalign is the right solution for you.
• Discussion of Goals: You’ll discuss your smile goals, concerns, and any specific issues you’d like to address.

Digital Scanning and Imaging

• 3D Digital Scan: Using advanced iTero scanning technology, a precise 3D image of your teeth will be created, eliminating the need for messy impressions.
• Treatment Preview: The digital model allows you to see a simulation of how your teeth will move and the expected final result.

2. Customized Treatment Plan

Personalized Aligners

• Custom-Made Aligners: Based on your digital scans, a series of custom aligners will be created specifically for your teeth.
• Treatment Timeline: Dr. Aldama will outline the estimated duration of your treatment, which typically ranges from 6 to 18 months.

Detailed Plan

• Aligner Sequence: You’ll receive multiple sets of aligners, each designed to be worn for about two weeks.
• Monitoring Schedule: Regular check-ups will be scheduled every 6-8 weeks to monitor progress and provide new aligners.

3. Receiving Your Aligners

First Fitting

• Ensuring Proper Fit: During your first fitting, Dr. Aldama will ensure your aligners fit correctly and make any necessary adjustments.
• Comfort Tips: You’ll receive guidance on how to insert and remove your aligners comfortably.

Instructions and Guidelines

• Wear Time: Aligners should be worn 20-22 hours per day, removing them only for eating, drinking (anything other than water), brushing, and flossing.
• Care Instructions: You’ll be provided with detailed instructions on how to clean and care for your aligners.

4. Daily Life with Aligners

Adjusting to Aligners

• Initial Comfort: It’s normal to experience mild discomfort or pressure for the first few days as your teeth begin to shift.
• Speech Adjustments: You may notice a slight lisp initially, which typically resolves within a few days.

Eating and Drinking

• No Dietary Restrictions: Unlike traditional braces, you can eat your favorite foods after removing your aligners.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water; remember to remove aligners when consuming colored beverages to prevent staining.

5. Regular Check-ups

Progress Monitoring

• Appointment Frequency: Schedule visits every 6-8 weeks with Dr. Aldama to monitor your progress.
• Aligner Updates: Receive your next sets of aligners and ensure your treatment is on track.

Addressing Concerns

• Open Communication: Discuss any discomfort or concerns with Dr. Aldama during your appointments.
• Adjustments: Minor adjustments can be made to your treatment plan if necessary.

6. Mid-Treatment Adjustments

Attachments and Elastics

• Attachments: Small tooth-colored bumps may be placed on your teeth to help aligners grip and move teeth more effectively.
• Elastics: In some cases, small rubber bands are used to correct bite issues.

Refinements

• Additional Aligners: If certain teeth need extra adjustment, refinement aligners may be ordered toward the end of treatment.

7. Maintaining Oral Hygiene

Brushing and Flossing

• After Meals: Brush your teeth after eating and before reinserting aligners to maintain oral health.
• Floss Daily: Keep your gums healthy by flossing regularly.

Aligner Care

• Cleaning Aligners: Clean aligners with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water daily.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use toothpaste or soaps with dyes/scents to clean aligners.

8. Completing Treatment

Final Results

• Last Aligner Set: Upon completing your final set of aligners, your treatment is nearly complete.
• Assessment: Dr. Aldama will assess your teeth to ensure they’ve moved as planned.

Retainers

• Vivera Retainers: You’ll be provided with retainers to maintain your new smile.
• Wear Schedule: Initially, retainers are worn full-time, then gradually reduced based on Dr. Aldama’s recommendations.

9. Post-Treatment Care

Long-Term Maintenance

• Regular Dental Visits: Continue routine dental check-ups and cleanings.
• Retainer Care: Keep retainers clean and replace them as recommended to prevent shifting.

Smile with Confidence

• Enjoy Your New Smile: Embrace the confidence that comes with a beautifully aligned smile.
• Photographs and Feedback: We love to see your results! Share your experience and photos with our team.

10. Common Questions During Treatment

Will Treatment Be Painful?

• Mild Discomfort: Some pressure is normal, especially with a new set of aligners, but severe pain is uncommon.
• Over-the-Counter Relief: Any discomfort can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

What If I Lose an Aligner?

• Contact Us Immediately: If you misplace an aligner, reach out to our office for guidance.
• Temporary Solutions: You may be advised to wear the previous or next set until a replacement is provided.

Conclusion

Understanding what to expect during your Invisalign treatment can help you feel more at ease and prepared for the journey ahead. Dr. Giovanni Aldama and our dedicated team are here to support you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and successful experience.

Ready to Start Your Invisalign Journey?

Schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Aldama to take the first step toward a straighter, healthier smile.

• Phone: 305.317.9887
• Address: 806 Douglas Rd South Tower #150, Coral Gables, FL 33134
• Online Scheduling: Book Your Consultation (opens in a new tab)