Have you started undergoing your Invisalign process? If so, you’re likely excited about achieving the straightened smile you’ve always wanted. By working through your series of clear aligners, your should be able to correct your mild to moderate orthodontic issues in no time! But what happens if your dentist recommends you get Invisalign refinements? Learn about this common adjustment to the treatment plan and why you might need it.
What Are Invisalign Refinements?
Part of the advantage of Invisalign treatment is that you won’t need to visit your dentist as often, since they won’t need to modify any wires or brackets. Still, you’ll see them every several weeks so they can monitor your progress and ensure there are no problems that need to be addressed. Even if there weren’t any developing issues throughout your process, your dentist might recommend that you get Invisalign refinements.
These are simply minor adjustments made to your teeth after you’ve finished wearing your aligners. They may be necessary if your teeth are still not properly aligned or there are spaces between them that haven’t closed as anticipated. According to recent studies, about 20% of Invisalign patients may require refinements.
How Do Invisalign Refinements Work?
Invisalign refinements are aligners that look similar to the clear trays you were previously wearing. The difference is that your dentist may instruct you to switch your custom trays out every 2-3 weeks. The number of refinements you’ll require will depend on your situation. While this will slightly change your Invisalign treatment plan, it’s one of the best approaches for ensuring ideal results.
Reasons You Might Need Invisalign Refinements
There are several reasons a patient may require minute adjustments after their orthodontic process, including:
- Neglecting to wear aligners for the 20 to 22 wear time per day.
- Going extensive periods without wearing clear aligners.
- Skipping certain aligners or switching them out too soon.
- Wearing Invisalign trays in the incorrect order.
- Needing to fix teeth that moved differently than expected.
Although you might adhere to your Invisalign treatment plan as instructed, you can’t always avoid certain changes. Even so, your dentist can still help make the necessary adjustments in your process to ensure you accomplish a straighter and healthier smile in the long run!
About the Practice
Our team at Westgate Dental Care offers high-quality dental services to help patients improve their pearly whites. We also provide reliable and comfortable treatments to correct orthodontic issues, including Invisalign. If you need additional adjustments after your process, we’ll be more than happy to provide refinements to guarantee successful results. If you want to schedule an appointment, feel free to visit our website or call our office at 847-577-7171.