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The Process of Getting Invisalign: Step By Step

February 1, 2023

Invisalign is a popular clear aligner, which straightens your teeth and enhances your smile. Many people choose Invisalign because this aligner is more discreet than traditional braces with their metal wires and brackets. Discover the process of getting Invisalign below.


Initial Consultation


The first step to acquiring clear aligners is to find an orthodontist qualified to help you with the process. While Invisalign is effective in realigning teeth, it isn't suitable for everyone. During the consultation, the orthodontist evaluates your candidacy for Invisalign aligners.


Usually, digital scans, photos, and X-rays are taken to check for signs of decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems. Once the doctor confirms your suitability for the treatment, they customize a treatment plan and answer any questions you have about the cost, timeline, and risks.


Impressions


Before your orthodontist begins the treatment process, they use an optical scanner to make digital impressions, which are then sent to the Invisalign lab to create custom trays.


Once the Invisalign technicians receive your doctor's prescription form and scans, they make an animation of a proposed treatment schedule for your case. After your orthodontist is satisfied with the proposed treatment plan, they will instruct the Invisalign technicians to proceed with the manufacturing process of the aligners. The technicians will make multiple casts, each having small individual movements, and from those casts they will fabricate the clear plastic aligners. These are then sent to your orthodontist’s office. 


First Set of Aligners


Once the aligners reach your orthodontist, you will receive a request to go to come back to the office for your first official appointment to place any necessary attachments and receive aligners. 


Attachments are small tooth-colored bumps temporarily bonded to your teeth and meet with a corresponding space in the aligner. All Invisalign patients need attachments at some point in their treatment since they help adjust teeth more accurately, reducing treatment time.


Your doctor ensures that the tray fits correctly and recommends how to use the aligners for maximum benefits. Typically, you must wear aligners for 20 to 22 hours every day and clean them to avoid decay and gum disease.


Follow-Up Appointments


A single aligner shifts teeth 1 mm or less, so you need multiple to reach your goals. Your orthodontist will educate you on how to place and remove your aligners, how to care for them, and how often to switch them (usually once per week).  Regular visits are also necessary, as your orthodontist must determine if the treatment plan is progressing as planned.


During these visits, your orthodontist may add or remove attachments or remove small amounts of enamel between specific teeth to create more space for teeth realignment. Then, the doctor gives you one or more trays to change before your next appointment.


Results


The treatment timeframe for Invisalign depends on the issues you want to rectify, how well you follow instructions, and your age. Some people enjoy results in as little as six months, with the average treatment time being 12 to 18 months. More complex cases may take longer, though.


Once you complete the treatment, wear a retainer to discourage your teeth from moving to their original positions. Your orthodontist customizes a retainer from the mold of your realigned teeth for the best results.


Clear aligners are great alternatives to traditional braces because you can remove them, eat and drink your favorite foods, and stay comfortable during the entire treatment. At Rosen Orthodontics, we recommend Invisalign for anyone who desires a discreet way to straighten teeth. Contact us today for a straighter smile!



Why You Should See an Orthodontist Instead of a General Dentist for Orthodontic Treatment

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This blog highlights the differences between an orthodontist and a general dentist for orthodontic treatment. Read more to find out the benefits of seeing an orthodontist.

Orthodontic Technology Advancements: How Digital Imaging and Customized Treatment Planning are Transforming Treatment

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In our Highland Park, IL, orthodontic office and our Buffalo Grove, IL, orthodontic office, Dr. Ben and Dr. Kristina are dedicated to utilizing the latest advancements in orthodontic technology to transform smiles. Our commitment to excellence extends to every aspect of your orthodontic journey, from the initial consultation to the final result. Digital Imaging: A Clearer Picture At our practice, we utilize state-of-the-art digital imaging techniques to capture precise images of your teeth and surrounding structures. By incorporating digital technology into our diagnostic process, we can provide a more accurate assessment of your orthodontic needs and develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your unique smile. Customized Treatment Planning: Tailored Solutions for Every Smile Dr. Ben and Dr. Kristina understand that every smile is unique, which is why we take a personalized approach to treatment planning. Using advanced digital technology, we can create virtual models of your teeth and simulate various treatment scenarios to determine the most effective course of action for achieving your desired outcome. Evidence-Based Benefits Our commitment to excellence is supported by a wealth of research and evidence in the field of orthodontics. Numerous studies have demonstrated the superior accuracy and effectiveness of digital imaging and customized treatment planning compared to traditional methods. When you choose our practice for your orthodontic care, you can trust that you're receiving the highest standard of treatment available. Transform Your Smile with Us If you're ready to experience the transformative benefits of orthodontic technology, we invite you to schedule a complimentary consultation with at our practice serving Highland Park, IL, Buffalo Grove, IL, and the surrounding suburbs of Deerfield, Riverwoods, Northbrook, Wheeling and Arlington Heights. Contact us today to take the first step towards achieving the smile of your dreams by scheduling your complimentary consultation, and discover the difference that personalized orthodontic care can make in your smile journey!

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Maintaining Your Retainer: Tips From Dr. Kristina and Dr. Ben at Rosen Orthodontics

18 Aug, 2023
Congratulations on completing your orthodontic treatment! Now that you have a beautiful new smile, it's important to take steps to keep it that way. Retainers are an essential part of your orthodontic treatment and help maintain the alignment of your teeth. At Rosen Orthodontics, Dr. Kristina and Dr. Ben want to make sure that you know how to properly care for your removable Essix retainer and lingual bonded (permanent) retainer. Caring for Your Removable Essix Retainer Essix retainers are custom-made clear plastic aligners that fit over your teeth and help maintain the position of your teeth after orthodontic treatment. They're easy to wear and clean, but it's important to follow these tips to keep them in good condition: Wear your retainer as directed. Your orthodontist will instruct you on how often you need to wear your retainer. Be sure to follow their instructions carefully. Clean your retainer daily. Brush your retainer gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild soap or non-abrasive toothpaste. Rinse it thoroughly with cool water before and after each use. Store your retainer properly. When you're not wearing your retainer, keep it in its protective case to prevent it from getting lost or damaged. Avoid exposing your retainer to high temperatures or direct sunlight. Avoid eating with your retainer in. Remove your retainer before eating to prevent damage or staining. Replace your retainer when necessary. Over time, your retainer may become worn or damaged. If this happens, contact your orthodontist to have it replaced.  Caring for Your Lingual Bonded (Permanent) Retainer Lingual bonded retainers are a thin wire that's bonded to the back of your teeth, providing continuous support to keep your teeth in their corrected position. Here are some tips to keep your lingual bonded retainer in good condition: Brush and floss your teeth carefully. Brush and floss your teeth daily, paying extra attention to the area around the retainer. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Use interdental brushes. An interdental brush can help you clean around the wire of your lingual bonded retainer more easily. Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods. Hard, sticky, or chewy foods can damage your retainer. Cut up hard foods like apples before eating them. Wear a mouthguard during sports. If you play sports or engage in other physical activities, wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and your retainer. Visit your orthodontist regularly. Your orthodontist will monitor the condition of your lingual bonded retainer during your routine checkups. In conclusion, maintaining your retainer is an essential part of keeping your newly aligned smile. At Rosen Orthodontics, Dr. Kristina and Dr. Ben want to make sure that you know how to properly care for your removable Essix retainer and lingual bonded (permanent) retainer. If you have any questions or concerns about your retainer, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you maintain your beautiful new smile for years to come.

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Orthodontic treatment is an investment in your dental health and well-being. While some general dentists offer orthodontic treatment, it's essential to understand the value of seeing an orthodontist for your orthodontic needs. At Rosen Orthodontics, Dr. Kristina and Dr. Ben believe that seeing an orthodontist provides significant benefits to patients seeking orthodontic treatment. Expertise and Specialized Training Orthodontists are specialists who receive advanced education and training beyond dental school to become experts in orthodontic treatment. They complete an additional three years of post-graduate education focused solely on orthodontics. This specialized training allows orthodontists to diagnose and treat complex orthodontic problems that general dentists may not be trained to address. Customized Treatment Plans Orthodontic treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Every patient's orthodontic needs are different, and an orthodontist can provide a customized treatment plan tailored to each patient's specific needs. They take into account factors such as age, facial structure, and the severity of orthodontic issues to develop a plan that will be effective and efficient. Access to Advanced Technology Orthodontists have access to the latest technology and advancements in orthodontic treatment. They use digital imaging and advanced treatment planning software to create precise treatment plans and ensure the best possible outcome for their patients. They also use state-of-the-art equipment to provide the most comfortable and efficient treatment possible. Ongoing Care and Support Orthodontic treatment is a process that requires ongoing care and support. Orthodontists provide continued care to ensure that their patients' teeth stay in their new positions, and any issues that arise are addressed promptly. They also provide education and support to help their patients maintain good oral hygiene during and after treatment. In conclusion, seeing an orthodontist for your orthodontic needs provides numerous benefits, including specialized training and expertise, customized treatment plans, access to advanced technology, and ongoing care and support. At Rosen Orthodontics, Dr. Kristina and Dr. Ben are committed to providing the highest quality orthodontic treatment to their patients in Highland Park, IL, Buffalo Grove, IL, and the surrounding North Shore suburbs. If you have any questions or concerns about orthodontic treatment, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
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