Once you’ve made the decision to get Invisalign treatment, it’s natural to want to get started right away. Don’t rush to select a provider, however. Choosing a Maritime Invisalign provider and starting treatment are two important steps towards achieving your dream of a perfect smile.
Take the time to evaluate your different options and understand what is expected during Invisalign treatment, or risk committing these common mistakes:
1. Choosing a dentist, not an orthodontist.
Choosing a qualified Invisalign provider is one of the most important decisions you will make before starting treatment. It’s critical you select a provider who has the skill and experience to effectively address your unique needs. Orthodontists complete specialized clinical experience that includes between 4,000 to 6,000 hours of working on patients within a supervised environment. They’re trained to address complex issues like overcrowding and bite misalignment. This is advanced training that general dentists do not receive.
2. Assuming that the more cases an Invisalign provider handles, then the more skilled the provider will be.
When selecting a Maritime Invisalign provider, consider both the quantity of cases the provider handles as well as the type of cases. For example, if a provider handles a large number of cases but these are fairly routine cases, then the provider may be unprepared for a more complex case. Conversely, a provider might handle a smaller number of cases each year but focus closely on complex alignment needs and be highly specialized. What matters most is that the provider you choose is experienced with your specific type of case. Credentials and Invisalign provider designations can help put the provider’s skills in perspective. It’s also helpful to view before/after photos for cases with the same treatment needs as yours.
3. Failing to wear Invisalign for the recommended time.
One of the great things about Invisalign – especially when compared with conventional braces – is that the aligners can be easily removed for eating, drinking, and cleaning. Unfortunately, the ability to remove aligners quickly and easily can also be a downside if you lack self-discipline or are forgetful.
While you will want to remove the aligners while eating or drinking, it’s important to brush promptly after your meal and put the aligners back in. Invisalign aligners should be worn for 20 to 22 hours each day. Failure to wear the aligners for the recommended time each day can diminish their effectiveness and extend the length of treatment. For your Invisalign treatment plan to be successful in the shortest time possible, it’s important that you adhere closely to the recommended daily wear time.
4. Expecting Invisalign to be a “quick fix”.
Invisalign is not an overnight fix for straighter teeth. Just like with braces, treatment can range from 12 months to several years. If you had braces when you were younger and your teeth have shifted slightly, your treatment needs may be closer to 12 months. However, if you have never had your teeth straightened and need your bit properly aligned, treatment may take 24 months or longer. Assuming Invisalign will be an “overnight” solution for straighter teeth will set you up for unrealistic expectations.
Depending on your treatment needs, you may start to see a noticeable improvement within just a few months. However, it is important that you continue to wear your aligners full-time (20 to 22 hours) in accordance with your provider’s instruction until your treatment is complete. Invisalign is a discreet, effective solution for achieving a straighter smile. Set yourself up for success by choosing the right Maritime provider for your needs and fully understanding what the treatment process entails.
