Invisalign: What to Expect Before, During, and After Treatment
If you’ve been dreaming of a straighter smile but aren’t sure if braces are right for you, Invisalign® may be the solution. These clear aligners are comfortable, removable, and nearly invisible, making them an excellent option for adults and teens alike. At HLH Orthodontics in Maumee, we walk our patients through every step of the process, from the first consultation to your Invisalign before and after results.
Whether you’re just starting to research Invisalign or you’ve already scheduled your consultation, knowing what to expect before, during, and after treatment will help you feel more confident and informed. Let’s take a closer look at the full Invisalign journey.
1. Your Consultation
Your Invisalign experience begins with a personalized consultation at HLH Orthodontics. During this visit, one of our orthodontists will examine your teeth and bite, take digital scans, and determine if Invisalign is the right fit for your needs. Invisalign works well for most cases of mild to moderate crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, and crossbites.
We’ll also take time to discuss your goals and answer your questions about what treatment involves, including timelines, pricing, and Invisalign before and after transformations.
2. Treatment Planning with Digital Precision
At HLH Orthodontics, we use advanced imaging technology to create a 3D model of your teeth. This model is used to map out your treatment plan and simulate the gradual tooth movement that will occur with each set of aligners. You’ll even get a sneak peek of your projected final results — your Invisalign before and after preview! Once your plan is finalized, your custom aligners will be fabricated using SmartTrack® material, designed for a snug and comfortable fit.
3. Daily Wear and Routine
You’ll wear your Invisalign aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day, removing them only to eat, drink (anything other than water), and brush and floss. Most patients switch to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks, depending on your treatment plan and how your teeth respond.
At first, you might experience slight pressure or discomfort as your teeth begin to shift, but most patients adjust quickly. One of the biggest perks? Since aligners are removable, you won’t have to give up your favorite foods or change your oral hygiene routine drastically.
4. Follow-Up Visits
While Invisalign requires fewer office visits than traditional braces, regular check-ins are still important. You’ll visit HLH Orthodontics every 6 to 10 weeks so we can monitor your progress and ensure your treatment is on track. These visits are generally quick and painless, without the need for wire adjustments. Instead, we’ll evaluate your alignment progress and provide your next sets of aligners.
5. Staying on Track
Your dedication plays a key role in the success of Invisalign treatment. Wearing your aligners as prescribed and following your orthodontist’s guidance will help you reach your goals on schedule. Missing days or not wearing your aligners enough can delay progress or reduce the effectiveness of your treatment. We recommend setting reminders or using the Invisalign app to help you stay consistent and motivated as you move closer to your “after” smile.
6. After Treatment: Maintaining Your Invisalign Results
Once you’ve completed your series of aligners and your teeth are in their ideal position, you’ll move into the retention phase. This step is crucial to maintain your Invisalign before and after results. Just like with braces, your teeth can shift back over time without the proper support.
You’ll receive a custom retainer, typically to be worn at night, that keeps your teeth from drifting out of alignment. At HLH Orthodontics, we emphasize the importance of long-term retention to protect your investment and preserve your beautiful smile.
Enjoying the Benefits
Once your treatment is complete and your smile is stabilized with a retainer, it’s time to enjoy the benefits! Straighter teeth are easier to clean, reduce your risk of dental problems, and can give you a major boost in self-esteem. Many of our patients tell us they feel more confident in photos, at work, and in social settings after Invisalign. Whether you came to us with crowding, spacing, or bite issues, your Invisalign before and after transformation can be truly life-changing.
Ready to Begin Your Invisalign Journey?
Choosing Invisalign means choosing a path that fits your lifestyle while achieving great results. If you’re considering clear aligners, HLH Orthodontics in Maumee is here to guide you every step of the way — from planning your first aligner set to enjoying the lasting results of your treatment.
Schedule your Invisalign consultation today to learn more about what the process involves, how long it might take, and what your Invisalign before and after could look like. Your new smile starts with one simple step — and we’re excited to help you get there.