How Invisalign Works

How Invisalign Works in Ivy, VA

Invisalign uses a series of custom-made clear aligners to gradually shift your teeth into their ideal positions, without brackets, wires, or the look of traditional braces. At Willis & Associates Family Dentistry Ivy – Charlottesville, Dr. Michelle Kim guides patients through every step of the Invisalign process.

The Invisalign Process, Step by Step

Step 1: Consultation

Your Invisalign journey begins with a consultation at our Ivy Road office. Dr. Kim examines your teeth, discusses your goals, and determines whether Invisalign is the right treatment for your situation. Invisalign can correct a wide range of alignment issues including crowding, spacing, overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite.

Step 2: Digital Scanning

If you are a good candidate, Dr. Kim takes a precise 3D digital scan of your teeth. This scan replaces the messy impressions of the past and provides the data needed to design your custom treatment plan. Using Invisalign’s advanced software, Dr. Kim maps out the exact movement of each tooth from its current position to its final alignment.

Step 3: Custom Aligner Fabrication

Based on your digital treatment plan, a series of clear aligner trays is custom-manufactured for your teeth. Each set of aligners is slightly different, designed to move your teeth incrementally over a period of one to two weeks per set.

Step 4: Wearing Your Aligners

You wear each set of aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, removing them only to eat, drink anything other than water, brush, and floss. The aligners are virtually invisible and fit snugly over your teeth. Most people will not even notice you are wearing them.

Step 5: Progress Checkups

Dr. Kim schedules periodic check-in visits, typically every six to eight weeks, to monitor your progress and provide the next sets of aligners. These appointments are quick, usually just 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 6: Retainers

Once treatment is complete, you will wear a retainer to maintain your new smile. Dr. Kim will discuss retainer options and create a plan that keeps your teeth in their final position for the long term.

How Long Does Invisalign Take?

Treatment time varies based on the complexity of your case. Most patients complete Invisalign in 12 to 18 months, though minor alignment corrections may be finished in as little as six months. Dr. Kim will give you a realistic timeline during your consultation.

Advantages of Invisalign

• Clear, nearly invisible appearance
• Removable for eating, brushing, and flossing
• Smooth plastic that does not irritate cheeks or gums
• No dietary restrictions since aligners are removed for meals
• Fewer office visits than traditional braces
• Digital treatment planning so you can preview your results