If you’ve begun your journey to a straight smile with Invisalign, your dentist gave you a series of aligners to wear over your teeth. Each aligner provides continual pressure to your teeth to move them gradually. Switching to a new aligner every 1-2 weeks will correct your bite and alignment problems. Regular appointments with your dentist ensure your efforts and time are rewarded. During a visit, your dentist might discover you need minor adjustments while already undergoing your orthodontic treatment. Invisalign refinements aren’t uncommon. Here’s why your dentist is recommending adjustments to your treatment plan.
What are Invisalign Refinements?
Although you won’t need appointments to adjust wires and brackets, you will need to visit your dentist every few weeks. They’ll check your teeth and bite at each appointment to ensure your tooth movements are progressing as intended.
The average treatment with Invisalign is 12 to 18 months, depending on your specific needs. Research has shown that 80%-90% of patients don’t need refinements, but 20% of Invisalign wearers will need adjustments.
You may need minute alterations after already undergoing your treatment when the teeth aren’t being aligned properly, or spaces between them aren’t being closed as expected.
How Do Invisalign Refinements Work?
Refinement aligners look identical to the Invisalign trays you’ve already been using. The only difference is that they are fabricated to meet your specific needs throughout your treatment process. They are digitally created from molds of your teeth, customizing the movements to your exact needs.
Each aligner will exert the right amount of pressure on specific teeth to reposition them. Instead of changing your aligners weekly, your dentist may instruct you to switch to the next every 2-3 weeks. The number of refinements needed is determined by your situation.
Your dentist will continue to check your smile regularly to ensure your teeth are responding correctly. Although your Invisalign plan may change, it’s the best way to guarantee optimal results.
Preventing Invisalign Refinements
Patients can need refinements for many reasons; however, adjustments are commonly required under certain circumstances, like:
- Failing to wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day.
- Going a long period of time without wearing your aligner.
- Having teeth move differently than expected.
- Not wearing your aligners in the right order.
- Skipping aligners or changing them too soon.
Even if you stick to your treatment plan, some things are beyond your control. Don’t worry if you need some adjustments. It’s time well-spent to achieve the beautiful, straight smile you desire.
About Dr. Mickey Leth
Dr. Leth earned his dental degree from the University of Florida and has achieved Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry. He also has Mastership status with the International Dental Implant Association. Dr. Leth has the experience and qualifications you can trust to achieve your best smile. Request an appointment through our website or call (904) 824-3540.