What happens during the Invisalign treatment when we hand over the first set of clear aligners?
The excitement of the first invisible aligner treatment
As we progress through the orthodontic treatment, patients arrive at check-ups with an increasing routine. However, the first appointment is always special and filled with excitement. We hand over the long-awaited transparent Invisalign aligners and set off on the journey toward perfectly aligned teeth and a beautiful smile. Yet some worries may also arise among these feelings. This is natural, as we are facing something unfamiliar and are curious whether everything will go smoothly during the procedure. First of all, let me reassure everyone that the treatment is completely painless. Secondly, I would like to provide you with as much information as possible in this article so that nothing unexpected would happen during this first and very special occasion.
Preparing the teeth for wearing clear aligners
Before handing over the invisible aligners, the orthodontic specialist reviews the treatment plan and checks which procedures need to be performed on the teeth during the first appointment. Below, I will list the most important tasks of this type.
1. Attachmentek felhelyezése
One of the most important elements needed for every Invisalign treatment is the placement of the so-called attachments on the teeth. Attachments are small, aesthetic (tooth-colored) composite resin bumps bonded onto the teeth. They play a key role in moving the teeth in the correct direction and in anchoring the aligners. Without them, aligner-based orthodontics would not be possible. To place the attachments, we must first clean and prepare the teeth. Then, using a template, we place the little composite domes in the proper locations, where they harden under blue light. It is important to note that the tooth enamel is not harmed during the procedure, nor when the attachments are removed.
2. Interproximal enamel reduction (IPR)
Before we dive into this topic, let me mention that during the discussion of the digital treatment plan, you may decide that you do not wish to undergo this procedure. In that case, the dentist will explain to you the alternatives and possible disadvantages of not doing IPR and will modify the treatment plan if you still don’t wish him to do it. Now let’s look at what exactly IPR is. In certain cases, there is not enough space available within the dental arch. The reason is usually severe crowding, but discrepancies in the size of the upper and lower teeth can also cause this situation. In this case, we somehow must create some space, and enamel reduction provides a solution to this problem. Before I explain in more detail how this process works, I would like to dispel all doubts. It is very important to know that the procedure is completely painless, and no anesthesia is needed. The teeth are not damaged, and they will not develop cavities later as a consequence of IPR. The maximum amount of enamel removed is half (0.5) a millimeter, which corresponds to the thickness of human hair. (The extent of reduction is precisely defined in the treatment plan, and the dentist always follows this guideline.) The procedure is usually performed using polishing strips or a very thin, fine-grained bur. Yes, I know and understand your concerns regarding this procedure. However, please allow me to advocate a bit for enamel reduction. It is a completely proven and very frequently used procedure in orthodontics, not only for aligner-based, but also during traditional fixed orthodontic treatment. It has numerous positive effects and no negative consequences. With its help, we can shorten the treatment time, avoid tooth extraction, protect the periodontal tissues, decrease the chances of root resorption, and solve problems that might otherwise prove impossible.
3. Placement of aesthetic little buttons for rubber bands
In certain bite irregularities (crossbite, mispositioned jaw) and for anchorage enhancement, it may happen that the patient must wear small elastics during certain phases of treatment together with the Invisalign aligners. These elastics can be hooked onto the small buttons bonded to the teeth. They are completely unnoticeable (tooth-colored) and comfortable (their surfaces are smooth), so wearing them poses no problem.
4. Handing over the aligners and demonstrating their use
Once we have completed the tasks described above, nothing remains but to hand over the beautiful new aligners. First, the doctor tries them on the teeth and checks whether the aligners fit properly. If everything is in order, the dentist then asks the patient to remove the aligners and then insert them again. Throughout the process, there will be help in case you get stuck at any point. There is no need to worry, because removing and inserting the aligners is simple. Even younger children manage this task with ease.
We also provide you with advice and other surprises
The visit is still not over for today, because we must explain the important rules and information regarding how to use clear aligners. The most important thing is that the aligners must be worn for at least 23 hours a day. They should only be removed while eating and brushing your teeth. Perfect oral hygiene is essential, and in case of tooth sensitivity, consuming softer foods or taking painkillers is recommended. Now we have truly reached the end of today’s orthodontic appointment, so we would like to treat you not only with some good advice, but also to a few useful physical gifts to make wearing the aligners easier. We give you an oral care kit that includes special toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwash, and plaque-revealing tablets. With the latter, you can check how thoroughly you have managed to clean your teeth. We also give you a special, protective case for your aligners, so you would have something to store them in when they are not worn. You will also receive cleaning crystals, which you can use to keep your aligners in immaculate condition. We place all the gifts and a 4–6-week supply of invisible aligners into a paper bag complete with the Invisalign logo and hand it to you with pleasure.
If we have inspired you to pursue orthodontic treatment at the Netfog Dental Clinic, then book an appointment for a consultation by clicking HERE!
In our clinic, the consultation is free if you proceed with the orthodontic treatment with us. (The consultation fee is credited toward the price of the orthodontic appliance.)