Invisalign is a custom-made set of aligners that straighten your teeth. The aligner trays are shaped out of plastic that you wear over your teeth. They are smooth and practically invisible, and they will slowly move your teeth into place. About every two weeks, you will pop on a new set of aligners. It is a comfortable and gradual process that will help you accomplish that great smile.
To begin the process, your dentist will take pictures, impressions, and x-rays of your teeth. Invisalign will then use that information to create a 3-D digital image of them. Using these images, your dentist will make a treatment plan. He will be able to plot out the precise movements of your teeth, and how long the entire process will take. With this same technology, your dentist can show you how your teeth will move during each step of treatment. Each patient is different, but the entire procedure usually takes a year for adults. For teenagers, it will take approximately the same amount of time as braces.
To move you up the next step in treatment, you will put on a new set of aligners about every two weeks. Also, you will occasionally have checkups with your dentist (about every six weeks) to oversee your progress. You should wear the aligners for 20-22 hours a day during the entire treatment. This will give the best results and make sure you finish the process on time. After each step in the process, you will be able to see how much closer you are to that great smile.