The Invisalign® Treatment Process
Many people are unhappy with the appearance of their smile because alignment problems have created the appearance of crooked, overcrowded, or gapped teeth. While these imperfections can drastically compromise the aesthetics of the smile, patients may be reluctant to undergo treatment because they have heard of the discomfort and inconvenience of traditional orthodontic treatment. Cosmetic dentist Louis J. Buono is happy to offer his Garden City patients Invisalign® as an alternative orthodontic treatment. The Invisalign® treatment process uses a series of clear aligners that are virtually invisible. The typical Invisalign® treatment is comparable in cost and time to traditional orthodontics but with the added benefit of improved comfort and convenience.
The Treatment Process
Invisalign® treatment is customized by Dr. Buono to address each of his patient’s unique concerns. Because of this, the specifications of each treatment plan will vary slightly. However, every patient will begin the treatment process with a consultation, followed by progression through a series of customized aligners, and resulting in a beautiful new smile.
- Consultation and treatment plan: The consultation for Invisalign® treatment allows Dr. Buono to determine if a patient is a good candidate for Invisalign® treatment. Most patients who experience orthodontic problems can benefit from Invisalign®. For those patients who are ideal candidates, the next step of the process is to create a personalized treatment plan. Dr. Buono creates a computerized 3D image of the teeth. This image allows us to create a treatment plan that is based on the precise needs of each patient. This treatment plan can even map out how the teeth will move throughout treatment.
- Progressing through the aligners: Based on the treatment plan that has been created, each patient will receive a series of customized aligners. These clear plastic aligners fit closely over the teeth and apply subtle pressure. For effective treatment, the aligners are to be worn every day for a recommended minimum of 20 to 22 hours per day. This gives patients some flexibility, allowing the aligners to be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. These aligners are comfortable to wear and have a smooth surface that will not irritate the lips or gums as traditional braces tend to do. Approximately every two weeks, the patient will progress to the next set of aligners. In this way, the teeth gradually shift into proper alignment.
- Enjoy your new smile: The Invisalign® treatment timeline will vary based on the extent of correction that is needed. However, the average treatment is 12 months. At the end of treatment, patients can enjoy the health and aesthetic benefits of properly aligned teeth. The smile will appear straight and beautiful and the teeth will be easier to clean and care for, making it easier for patients to avoid decay and other oral health problems.
Alternate Treatment
While Invisalign® treatment is more comfortable and convenient than traditional orthodontic treatment, it is still a lengthy process. For patients who are looking for a quicker option, Dr. Buono offers porcelain veneers as a cosmetic solution for crooked or misaligned teeth. Dr. Buono is happy to discuss this treatment option in more detail.
Schedule an Appointment
Crooked, poorly spaced teeth are not anyone’s idea of the ideal smile. Fortunately, these blemishes can be corrected without the discomfort or inconvenience that is typically associated with traditional orthodontic treatment. To learn more about your options for improving a crooked smile, schedule an appointment with Dr. Louis J. Buono at your earliest convenience. We look forward to meeting you!