25 Mar What happens when I’m finished with Invisalign treatment?
Because it is convenient and comfortable, Invisalign is an increasingly popular treatment for patients who want to straighten their smiles. The clear plastic aligner trays don’t interfere with the smile’s appearance, and they can be removed at mealtime and for brushing and flossing.
However, despite its differences from traditional braces, Invisalign treatment is based on standard orthodontic principles of applying forces to teeth in order to reposition them. Therefore, the use of retainers after treatment – even Invisalign – is necessary to maintain results.
Following the instructions provided by your dentist after you complete the active phase of Invisalign will be instrumental in maintaining your results in the long term. We will review these instructions thoroughly with you, and we encourage you to ask for clarification when necessary.
After Invisalign: What to Expect
As is the case with all orthodontic treatment approaches, Invisalign requires patients to wear a retainer for specified periods of time in order to reinforce and preserve the treatment results.
The good news is that the Invisalign retainer can be just as comfortable and convenient as the treatment’s aligner trays. You can choose a traditional wire retainer or a clear retainer that is similar in design to an Invisalign aligner tray.
For a certain period of time immediately after completing Invisalign treatment, you will wear your retainer 24 hours a day. When your dentist gives you clearance to do so, you can switch to wearing it at nighttime only.
The Importance of Adhering to Post-Invisalign Treatment Recommendations
With a sense of accomplishment after completing Invisalign treatment, some patients may not adhere to recommendations for retainer use after treatment is complete. However, if you fail to wear your retainer as directed, you may experience the following issues:
- Teeth revert toward their original positions
- Smile’s appearance suffers
- Damage to teeth as they shift
- Discomfort
Additionally, you must take good care of your retainers. Store them in appropriate containers when you are not wearing them, and keep them clean. Don’t attempt to eat or drink hot beverages while you are wearing your retainers.
To learn more about the Invisalign treatment and all of its phases, visit our office for a consultation. Call Aesthetic Dental Partners today to set up an appointment.