About Invisalign and Clear Aligners

Orthodontist Rancho Mission Viejo, CA

Braces are an excellent option for anyone wishing to achieve a healthier and more attractive smile. However, as a “Premier” provider of Invisalign, John Redmond Orthodontics has perfected many smiles with Invisalign invisible aligners. Many patients love the convenience and more pleasing look of Invisalign orthodontic appliances. After all, you should feel as confident with the form of orthodontic treatment you choose as you will when you see your spectacular results. 

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign works to adjust the teeth and jaw by using a series of smooth, clear, BPA-free plastic aligners that slip over the teeth. These act like comfortable and virtually invisible mouthguards. John Redmond Orthodontics designs how your aligners should function, and then the Invisalign lab prints them based on those specifications. The aligners are custom-designed and are intended to fit like a glove while shifting the teeth into the desired position by applying a steady, gentle, and controlled force. Each individual set in a series of removable aligners is programmed to achieve specific movements. As you make your way through the entire series, your new smile takes shape. 

What’s Involved with an Invisalign Procedure?

Invisalign patients typically start their journey by getting an orthodontic consultation. X-ray images are taken, and a thorough exam is performed. Your orthodontic professional will chat with you about your treatment needs and goals, discuss your diagnosis with you, and answer any questions you have. When you decide to move forward with clear aligners, you’ll hear about what you can expect during treatment. This includes the length of treatment, the cost, what your dental insurance policy covers, and your financing options.

In the next step, a digital 3D image of your mouth is created using a specialized scanner. Modern technology employs these scans to create a lifelike model of your oral cavity. After the scan, your orthodontist will map out individual tooth movements on the model to create a precise treatment plan. Specific teeth will be earmarked to move at certain points throughout the protocol. The amount of force and the timing of it is controlled for every single tooth. 

The specifications are then sent to the Invisalign lab. The customized clear aligners will be printed according to the orthodontist’s plan. Patients will receive them and wear them for about 22 hours each day. They will typically be changed every week. No hardware is involved. The tooth movements are already programmed into the clear aligners, so you won’t have to have adjustments done, as with braces. Instead, you will have quick follow-up appointments every three to four months to ensure your treatment is on track. 

The needs of each patient are unique, and how long treatment lasts depends on the severity of your case. However, for most Invisalign patients, treatment usually lasts between six months and a couple of years. Once your treatment is finished, you’re done with aligners and can show off your beautiful new smile.    

John Redmond Orthodontics aims to ensure Invisalign works for both your needs and budget. For answers to your questions, Schedule a consultation with an orthodontist Rancho Mission Viejo, CA residents recommend right away to get personalized answers to your questions or to get started.