Invisalign® clear aligners were a revolutionary orthodontic treatment when they hit the market in the 90’s and have stayed a favorite since! In fact, there’s been an increase in their popularity among teens and adults since 2020. With these clear aligners offering a virtually invisible, comfortable, and discreet treatment, it’s no wonder there’s 1.6 million smiles being transformed by Invisalign – and the number keeps growing!

If you’re considering Invisalign for your smile, here’s what you can expect during your treatment – step by step

Step 1: Schedule an Invisalign consultation with an orthodontist

The first step in the Invisalign process is to schedule a consultation with an Invisalign doctor. While general dentists may offer Invisalign treatment too, an orthodontist has the specialized training to diagnose and treat your orthodontic condition(s) starting at the root!  

In Berwyn and Oak Lawn, Dr. Tahir is a leading Invisalign Provider! When you schedule a complimentary Invisalign consultation with Cool Braces, he’ll evaluate your teeth and jaws, and help determine whether Invisalign is the right treatment option for you. Included in your initial exam, are diagnostic photos and x-rays which will show our team the complete picture of your orthodontic and dental health. 

Step 2: Creating a custom treatment plan

Using the images, x-rays, and notes from your orthodontic exam, our orthodontic team will then present to you your custom smile transformation plan! This comprehensive plan will break down your treatment details – including the length of treatment, cost, and expected results.

If you decide to move forward with Invisalign, our team will get started on your treatment process right away. 

The first part is taking some digital scans of your teeth using a 3D intraoral scanner called iTero®. You’ll be able to see a cool 3D image of your teeth and gums being built as we take pictures using a handheld wand. This process takes about 5 minutes to complete and while your orthodontist reviews and solidifies your personalized treatment plan, we’ll be able to show you a simulated image of your expected smile results!

Step 3: Receiving your Invisalign aligners

Once your Invisalign treatment plan is finalized, your scan will be sent straight to the Invisalign labs from the iTero! 

Invisalign will then create a series of custom aligners that are designed just for your smile. Once your series of aligners come in, we’ll give you a call to come pick them up and walk you through instructions for wearing your Invisalign for the best possible smile results. 

Treatment with Invisalign takes an average of 12 and 18 months, depending on the complexity of your case. While everyone’s experience is unique, most people find that Invisalign is a comfortable and convenient way to straighten their teeth and achieve the smile they’ve always wanted!

Step 4: Wearing your Invisalign aligners

Once you’ve got your aligners and a welcome packet filled with resources, you’re ready to rock and roll.  

Wearing your Invisalign aligners is easy and comfortable! Simply insert the aligners over your teeth and wear them for 20 to 22 hours a day, removing them only to eat, brush, and floss. Because the aligners are made of smooth plastic, they won’t irritate your cheeks and gums like traditional braces can. About every 1 to 2 weeks, you’ll move on to the next set of aligners in your plan. Many Invisalign wearers start seeing results within 6 weeks!

Step 5: Monitoring your cool smile

Throughout your Invisalign treatment, you’ll have regular check-ins with your orthodontist to monitor your progress. These checkup appointments happen every 10 to 12 weeks. Your orthodontist will complete a fit check to see if your teeth are progressing as they projected. And our team may take additional scans or make any necessary adjustments.

Step 6: Finishing your treatment

Once you’ve finished your last set of aligners, your treatment is complete! And now it’s time for a very important phase – retention! 

Wearing a retainer after Invisalign is a must if you want to keep your beautiful new smile. Your retainer will hold your teeth in their new position while the ligaments and bone that holds your teeth heals from your smile journey. Retainer wear will be similar to your Invisalign wear for next 6 months – only taking them out for eating, brushing, or flossing. Then you’ll be able to switch to retainer wear for nights only! 

Have more questions about the Invisalign process?

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions! 

Dr. Tahir and our team at Cool Braces have the experience you and your family need to achieve a healthy smile in the shortest time possible.  We’ll help you become a magnet for life’s opportunities.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re happy to discuss any of our treatment options with you.

Get started today by requesting a complimentary consultation.