The Invisalign® clear aligner system revolutionized the field of orthodontics. This innovation involves crafting personalized sets of clear, removable aligners for each individual, effectively digitizing orthodontic procedures.
Pioneering the use of technology to pre-plan every stage of teeth repositioning, Invisalign follows an optimal trajectory from start to finish. Invisalign treatments are also five months faster on average than traditional braces, accompanied by 30% fewer patient visits.
If you use Invisalign, you may be curious about how well it works. Since the process of aligning teeth is slow, it can be hard to tell how much progress you've made. In this blog, we'll discuss how to check if your Invisalign treatment works correctly and advise you on what to do if you have any concerns.
Checking if your Invisalign trays fit well is straightforward – it's all about how they align with your teeth. This process is called "teeth tracking." You might notice a few things when your Invisalign isn't tracking well. The trays could feel loose, especially towards the back of your mouth. You might also see a gap between the tray and your teeth or notice that the tray doesn't fit well on a specific tooth.
On the other hand, if your Invisalign is tracking correctly, the trays should fit the shape of your teeth well. Well-tracked trays will feel snug on your teeth and may even cause discomfort. This slight discomfort is a good sign that your trays are doing their job.
Small gaps or air pockets in Invisalign trays are normal, but you should be concerned about tracking if the trays feel loose or move when you talk or swallow.
Transparent aligners should strike the right balance between snugness and looseness. When you begin using a new set of trays, they will feel exceptionally snug and possibly even a bit uncomfortable.
Invisalign exerts significant force to shift your teeth to new positions gently. If you find the discomfort unbearable or require additional guidance in managing it, contact your orthodontist.
For your Invisalign treatment to work, you must wear your aligner trays for at least 22 hours daily. You can only remove them when you eat or brush your teeth. If you don't follow this routine, you might not get the results you want.
After eating, put your trays back in as soon as you can. But before you do that, make sure to brush your teeth and clean your trays well. This helps keep your treatment on track and ensures your trays work effectively.
Sometimes, the aligner trays don't fit properly right from the start. This might be because they were made incorrectly. If your new trays suddenly show gaps or fitting issues that your old ones didn't have, this could be the reason.
There's a chance that the trays got bent or there was a mistake in making them, which affects the fit. If this happens, contact a clinic specializing in clear aligners so they can check the trays and get you a replacement if necessary, so your treatment can continue smoothly.
Teeth may not move as quickly as anticipated during orthodontic treatment due to the flexible nature of the bone they are in, which is not as rigid as stone. Certain teeth may be more challenging to adjust than others.
In such cases, orthodontists may recommend refinements or adjustments to the treatment plan, even if the patient is following the instructions correctly.
Unfortunately, even the most diligent patients can encounter issues with a gap forming between their Invisalign tray and their teeth. However, practical solutions exist to rectify the alignment problem and get your teeth back on the desired trajectory.
Consistent wear of your aligners is crucial for their effectiveness. If you haven't been following the 22-hour daily guideline, it may be necessary to go back to your previous trays. Remember to use chewies, especially in areas that need extra attention.
Next, check the condition of your aligners. If you tend to grind your teeth, carry them loosely in a bag, or expose them to high temperatures while washing. They could be distorted and require replacement.
If the aligners don't work, your orthodontist may need to adjust your treatment plan. The scan can't predict every detail of tooth movement, so you may need to request a new aligner with updated scans.
Invisalign is a valuable investment in your smile's transformation. To accurately determine whether Invisalign is effectively tracking your progress, it's advisable to consult your orthodontist for expert guidance.
Consider partnering with us for your Invisalign treatment. Here at Arvada Dental Excellence, we offer impeccable clear aligners in Arvada, CO, tailored to your teeth. Dr. Jason Ganong, Colorado's sole Diamond Level Invisalign® Provider, ensures top-tier care. Achieve your dream smile with chosen aligners while prioritizing your comfort.
Schedule a complimentary consultation today for a step toward your ideal smile!
