Is Invisalign a Flexible Treatment Option?

Considering Invisalign®? Many dental patients look into these aligners as they provide a flexible and relatively simple treatment process. However, flexibility is not to be confused with ease. Invisalign® is still an involved treatment process that requires discipline, patience and the ongoing attention of a general dentist. Keep reading to learn more about Invisalign®!

Understanding the flexibility of Invisalign® treatment

Below is a quick overview of Invisalign®, including how the process works and why it is referred to as flexible. Review this information when considering different treatment options. 

The treatment process

Invisalign® is a teeth straightening treatment option that involves wearing clear aligners on the top or bottom arches of teeth or both. Because Invisalign® are simple aligner pieces that fit an entire arch, the teeth are forced to shift altogether, instead of individually as is the case with braces. 

At the start of treatment, patients will be custom-fit for their own series of Invisalign®. They are then provided the entire series, as well as a timeline, which outlines how often the aligners should be changed out. Over the course of the Invisalign® process, patients will change out their aligners every few weeks, based on the dentist's advisement. Additionally, patients are expected to visit the dentist on a regular basis to undergo check-ups for progress. Typically, these are done every six to eight weeks.  

The goal of Invisalign® is to address crowding, spacing issues, crookedness and mild to moderate bite problems. Many consider it due to the ability to remove the aligners for eating and oral hygiene. 

What to know about the flexibility

The Invisalign® treatment process is known to be flexible; however, that does not mean that it is easy or relaxed. Many people enter into the treatment process operating under the mindset that the aligners can be removed for periods on end with no consequences. However, if Invisalign® aligners are not worn for at least 22 hours a day, the results will be affected, which can lead to longer treatment times and more money. 

The flexibility of having removable aligners is also what makes the entire treatment process difficult. Additionally, because most patients are provided with the entire series of aligners upfront, check-up dental appointments are harder to maintain. However, these appointments are crucial as it allows the dentist to monitor progress and make any necessary changes to the treatment plan.

It is important to know and understand that Invisalign® patients have to be extremely disciplined throughout the entire process. While it can be tempting to remove the aligners for reasons outside of eating and oral hygiene, doing so can be detrimental to success. 

Find out more from the dentist

Individuals who want further information on Invisalign® should consult directly with a dentist for personalized information. Questions and concerns can be addressed, and an evaluation can be done in order to determine if Invisalign® is a suitable option. Reach out today to learn more about the process or to get scheduled for an appointment. 

Request an appointment here: https://frankforddentalcare.com or call Frankford Dental Care at (215) 302-1746 for an appointment in our Philadelphia office.

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