Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment option that uses clear aligners to straighten teeth gradually. It has quickly emerged as an alternative to traditional metal braces, due to the treatment’s discretion and well as its overall convenience. That said, while the process is designed to be incredibly efficient, some patients may still require Invisalign refinements, which are additional aligners meant to fine-tune their results. If your orthodontist has mentioned refinements for your child, don’t worry – it might seem like an inconvenience at first, but it will ultimately ensure a beautiful, straighter smile for life!
Why Might Invisalign Refinements Be Needed?
Even with a well-planned treatment, your teeth might not shift exactly as predicted during your Invisalign journey – however, this isn’t always in your control! There are many factors in play when it comes to realigning teeth, and sometimes teeth are stubborn and do not move how we want them to. In other instances, lack of movement could be tied to inconsistent aligner wear; Invisalign treatment relies on patients wearing their aligners for roughly 22 hours every day, and they must also advance to their new aligner sets as instructed (usually every couple of weeks). Refinements may be necessary to help get things back on track. Sometimes, there are also simply last-minute gaps and misalignments that remain at the end of a treatment plan; this can’t always be anticipated, but it can be resolved with refinements!
How Can I Keep My Invisalign Treatment Right on Schedule?
Patients undergoing Invisalign treatment have quite a bit of agency when it comes to ensuring a successful treatment. That said, needing to undergo refinements shouldn’t be viewed as a negative – view them as the very final touches on your treatment! In any case, some tips that will help your aligners do their job include:
- Wear your aligners are recommended – Consistency is key when it comes to Invisalign, and the aligners must be worn as instructed, only removed for brushing and eating.
- Change your aligners on time – Stick to the schedule provided to you, and don’t delay advancing to your new sets.
- Keep your aligners clean – Oral hygiene issues that pop up can cause delays as well, so brush and floss your teeth while rinsing/cleansing your aligners as instructed.
- Attend all of your checkups – It’s true that Invisalign requires fewer check-in appointments compared to metal braces, but you’ll still need to attend each one.
Every smile is unique and deserves to look and feel its best, and refinements are just one part of the Invisalign process that can help your child achieve a healthy smile for life!
About the Practice
Our team here at Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics has served the dental needs of families in Nashua and the surrounding area for several years under the skilled leadership of Dr. Sam Alkhoury and Dr. Myles Clancy. We proudly offer a wide range of orthodontic treatment options, including Invisalign clear aligners! If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with us to set up an appointment for you or a loved one, reach out online or call today for more information. Telephone: (603) 880-5002.