How does Invisalign work?

Invisalign is a clear aligner system that moves teeth using a series of custom-made removable trays. Each aligner is slightly different from the one before it. As the aligners are worn in sequence, they apply gentle pressure to guide the teeth toward the planned positions.

The Invisalign process begins with diagnosis. The orthodontist evaluates the teeth, bite, smile, jaw relationship, gum health, and treatment goals. A digital scan or set of records is used to create a three-dimensional model of the teeth.

The orthodontist then plans the tooth movements. This is one of the most important parts of Invisalign treatment. The computer simulation does not treat the patient by itself. The orthodontist must decide which movements are realistic, how the bite should be corrected, where attachments may be needed, and how to sequence the movements.

Attachments are small tooth-coloured shapes that may be bonded to certain teeth. They help the aligners grip the teeth and create more predictable movement. Elastics may also be used with Invisalign when bite correction is needed.

Patients usually wear each aligner for a set period of time before moving to the next one. Aligners are removable for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, but they must be worn consistently to work properly. Most patients need to wear aligners approximately 22 hours per day. Learn about whether Invisalign hurts.

Regular monitoring is important to make sure the teeth are tracking as planned. If the teeth do not move exactly as expected, refinement aligners may be needed to improve the final result.

At Orthodontics on Queen in The Beaches, Toronto, Invisalign is planned and supervised from a specialty orthodontic perspective. Invisalign is the appliance. The orthodontic diagnosis, treatment plan, monitoring, and finishing determine the quality of the result. Learn about Invisalign cost in Toronto.