San Francisco and Marin CA
For years, straightening teeth meant enduring metal braces with brackets and wires that often poked the cheeks, lips, or tongue. Braces also come with dietary restrictions and frequent adjustments that can leave your mouth sore. Because of these challenges, many people chose to live with crooked teeth or bite issues instead of seeking treatment.
Thanks to Invisalign, the process of straightening teeth has become more comfortable, discreet, and convenient. If you’re considering Invisalign, here’s what you can expect throughout your treatment journey at Glen Park Dental.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Evaluation
Your Invisalign journey begins with a thorough dental exam at our San Francisco office. We’ll assess your oral health, review your dental history, and discuss your smile goals to determine if Invisalign is the right option for you.
Step 2: Treatment Planning
If you’re a good candidate, we’ll outline your customized treatment plan, including the timeline and cost. Next, we’ll take digital scans and X-rays of your teeth to create precise 3D images that will guide the design of your aligners.
Step 3: Creating Your Aligners
Using the digital models and our specific instructions, Invisalign crafts a series of custom clear aligners tailored to gradually move your teeth into their ideal positions.
Step 4: Wearing Your Aligners
You’ll wear each set of aligners for about two weeks, with new trays designed to advance your treatment in small, comfortable increments. It’s common to experience mild discomfort or pressure during the first few days of a new aligner, which means the teeth are shifting as planned. For best results, you’ll need to wear your aligners around 22 hours per day, removing them only for eating, brushing, and flossing. Treatment typically lasts between 12 and 18 months.
Step 5: Keeping Everything Clean
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is important throughout your Invisalign treatment. After meals, remove your aligners to brush and floss your teeth, and also take a moment to gently clean your aligners to keep them clear and fresh.
Step 6: Post-Treatment Retention
Once your Invisalign treatment is complete, custom retainers will be made to help maintain your newly aligned smile. Initially, you may need to wear retainers full-time, but eventually, you can usually switch to wearing them only at night to prevent teeth from shifting back.
Invisalign Provider in San Francisco, CA
Invisalign offers a modern, discreet solution for achieving a straighter smile without the drawbacks of traditional braces. If you’re ready to explore your orthodontic options, contact Glen Park Dental today at (415) 799-3900 or visit us at 4 Joost Ave, San Francisco, CA 94131 to schedule your consultation.