Have you ever wondered, “How does Invisalign move teeth if there aren’t brackets and wires”? You’re not the first to ask.
How Invisalign Works
Invisalign treatment in Dumont is based on cutting-edge digital imaging and treatment mapping. So how does Invisalign move teeth? First, our Dumont dentist takes a digital scan of your entire smile. This data is converted into a 3D virtual model of your mouth and plugged into the Invisalign labs software.
From there, the Invisalign software maps out where your teeth currently are, where you want them to be, and which movements are required to get them there. Depending on the extent of the movement, some patients’ treatment requires more time than others.
Your tooth progression happens every time you change your Invisalign trays out with the next pair in the series. As you progress to the next set, your teeth move slightly closer to the end result.
How Often to Change Invisalign Trays
It’s extremely important that you only change out your Invisalign trays as directed. For most people, that’s every two weeks. Do not change them out more frequently, as it could permanently damage your teeth or result in delayed results. It may seem like you’re moving things along more quickly, but you might actually be setting your smile back.
With every pair of aligners, your teeth get closer to your straight smile. How much does Invisalign move teeth per tray? Fractions of millimeters. You might not even see the difference between one set to another in the beginning. But if you were to take one set now and another set a few months later, they would look significantly different from one another.
Every time you change out your trays, they nudge your teeth toward the end goal.
How do Invisalign Trays Move Teeth?
With a traditional bracket and wire system, your braces are affixed to specific points of each tooth. Whenever the wire is changed out, or tighter bands are put on, they pull or tug on them at specific points.
On the other hand, Invisalign trays hug every tooth from every angle. Since they wrap around your entire smile, there isn’t just one pressure point from a bracket on your tooth. Rather, it’s moved from multiple points.
Each aligner is digitally printed based on a virtual model of that tooth’s movement. So, if it’s slightly shifting to the left, the tray is shaped that way. When you put the tray over your bite, the whole tooth slips into that “form” or “mold” that’s guiding it in another direction. With every new tray comes new tooth movement, even though it’s only fractions of millimeters.
To move certain teeth, others may need to be guided out of the way first. They can possibly be moved at the same time. Although you won’t notice visible tooth movement early on, you will within a matter of a few months. In fact, people who only need minor tooth movement at the front of their smile may only need to wear aligners for six months or less. In comparison, comprehensive cases range anywhere from 12-24 months. The total length of time will depend on the number of trays needed to move your teeth, and the number needed is based on the severity of your tooth misalignment.
Visualize the Difference
All prospective Invisalign clients can preview a virtual mockup of their orthodontic treatment. This preview shows you exactly where your teeth are moving, how they’re getting there, and the time-lapse of the overall Invisalign experience. If you’re still uncertain whether Dumont Invisalign is right for you, this option is a great way to visualize the before and after results.
Invisalign Treatment in Dumont Enjoy discreet, comfortable, clear braces with Dumont Invisalign at Palisades Dental Care. Contact our office today to reserve a no-obligation consultation. We’ll discuss how Invisalign can move your teeth, the estimated timeframe required (and the number of trays needed), and the costs associated with your specific smile. New patients are always welcome!
