Teeth After Invisalign: What’s Next After Completing Treatment?

26 June 2024

Teeth After Invisalign: What’s Next After Completing Treatment?

For many years the only method of straightening teeth was through the use of dental braces. In the modern era, this is no longer the case thanks to the introduction of aligners and, more specifically, Invisalign aligners.

Very few people go through life without experiencing some alignment issues with their teeth. These problems may be minor or major — but having noticeably misaligned teeth can be very troubling for some and lead to a lack of self-confidence with an accompanying reluctance to smile, laugh or even talk.

Invisalign aligners not only work better and quicker than traditional dental braces but also have the added advantage of being totally transparent and almost completely invisible. This is in stark contrast to the metal and plastic wires and retainers associated with dental braces.

This is an obvious attraction for most people but are these invisible aligners truly effective and are there any drawbacks to caring for teeth after Invisalign treatment?

The Invisalign Method

As is the case with traditional dental braces, the Invisalign method uses pressure to slowly move the teeth into their correct position. Dental braces are fixed to the teeth with wires and brackets — and these are manipulated over a period of time to encourage the teeth to shift into the desired position.

In order to achieve the same outcome, the Invisalign method uses a series of aligners placed over the teeth. The first aligners begin the process of shifting the teeth and are swapped out after a certain period of time. A second aligner is then employed to further push the teeth into place and the process continues until the desired result has been achieved.

The number of aligners required — and the amount of time treatment — takes are completely dependent on the level of misalignment being treated. The mildest of cases may take around six months while it could take several years to correct more serious issues as would also be the case with traditional dental braces.

Invisalign treatment is suitable for both children and adults and is recommended for a wide variety of dental issues including:

• Crowded teeth
• Crooked teeth
• Irregular spacing
• Small gaps
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Crossbite

The Invisalign method can be used to successfully treat many of the dental issues that dental braces can with the notable exception of large gaps between the teeth or severe rotation of teeth. All options and a treatment plan will be discussed at the initial consultation with the dental professional carrying out the treatment.

Retainers Needed

As is also the case with traditional dental braces, retainers will be needed to secure the teeth after Invisalign corrective treatment. Teeth naturally shift over time and there will always be a tendency for them to try to move back to their original location. In order to counteract this natural movement, retainers are required to hold the teeth in the newly-acquired position.

As with Invisalign aligners, retainers sit on top of the teeth but their purpose is to “retain” teeth in the correct position as opposed to forcing them into a new one. And, just like Invisalign aligners, retainers are also almost invisible and virtually impossible for other people to see.

This means the retainers can be worn with confidence but this is not the only advantage. Modern retainers, such as the Vivera retainers also made by Invisalign.

Retainers

Retainers are designed to serve one purpose: to hold the teeth in position. Although many retainer manufacturers may claim to do this effectively it is prudent to select a quality product. Poorly fitting retainers can be uncomfortable to wear and may not be 100% effective. It is therefore wise to select a better quality retainer from a recognized manufacturer.

Retainers check all the boxes regarding what a good retainer should deliver:

• Customized to individual requirements
• Snug but comfortable fit
• Up to 30% stronger than most competitors
• Durable and long-lasting
• Removable
• Easy to clean

Retainers are constructed from high-grade material that is resistant to tarnishing and discoloration meaning they last and look better for longer than mass-produced alternatives.

Taking proper care of the teeth after Invisalign treatment is an ongoing and long-term process that can last for countless years or even a lifetime. With this being the case, it is worthwhile investing some time and money on retainers that will perform to the highest standards and deliver results while, at the same time, looking good and being comfortable to wear.

Dental experts, doctors and Invisalign clients agree that choosing the right retainer is an important part of corrective dental treatment and retainers are the number one choice for many.