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The first step in the Invisalign journey is scheduling a consultation with a qualified orthodontist. During this initial visit, your orthodontist will assess your issue, discuss your treatment goals, and determine if Invisalign is the right fit for you. X-rays, impressions or scans, and photographs may be taken to create a detailed digital model of your teeth, helping to formulate a personalized treatment plan.

Please note that, while Invisalign is a great treatment option for many patients, there are cases where it isn’t the recommended treatment. This is why this first step is so important. Your orthodontist wants to ensure you have the most ideal smile once treatment is completed, and that means using the right treatment to ensure that can happen. 

Following your consultation, the orthodontist creates a customized treatment plan tailored to your unique orthodontic needs. This plan includes a series of aligners designed to gradually shift your teeth into the desired position. The number of aligners needed, and the overall duration of treatment depend on the complexity of your case. Every smile is different, so every treatment plan will be different. So, even though your best friend only needed to wear aligners for 12 months, that doesn’t mean that will necessarily be the case for you. 

Once your treatment plan is finalized, the Invisalign lab begins fabricating your custom aligners. This process typically takes a few weeks. The aligners are crafted from a durable, transparent material, making them nearly invisible when worn. In the meantime, you can eagerly anticipate the arrival of the first set of aligners that will kickstart your smile journey.

Upon receiving your aligners, you’ll return to your orthodontist for a fitting session. During this appointment, your orthodontist ensures that the aligners fit comfortably and provides detailed instructions on how to wear and care for them. 

At this appointment, it is important to tell your orthodontist if there are any areas on your aligners that are uncomfortable. They can take care of this in the office to ensure you have the most ideal and comfortable fit. 

Invisalign aligners are removable, but for optimal results, they should be worn for 20-22 hours a day, only removed for eating, brushing, and flossing.

Throughout your Invisalign treatment, you’ll have periodic check-ups with your orthodontist to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments. These appointments typically occur every 6-8 weeks, during which you’ll receive new sets of aligners to continue the gradual tooth movement.

Beginning the Invisalign journey is an exciting experience. While the timeline may vary from person to person, the average duration of Invisalign treatment ranges from 8 to 24 months. The key to success lies in consistent wear and proper care of the aligners.