What To Expect After Invisalign Treatment is Complete

While you will be able to enjoy your evolving smile throughout your Invisalign orthodontic treatment, what can you expect once your treatment is complete?

Invisalign Treatment

Invisalign clear aligners are used to correct a variety of orthodontic issues ranging from simple to more complex. Throughout treatment, your dentist will monitor your smile and keep track of your progress carefully to make sure everything is going according to plan. Since Invisalign aligners are made of clear plastic, you will likely be able to see the changes to your smile as they occur.

At the end of treatment, the result should be a straighter, healthier smile. So, is that it? Not quite.

Retainers

As is the case at the end of any orthodontic treatment, when Invisalign treatment is complete, it's going to take a little while for your teeth to get settled. That's where retainers come in. 

Following Invisalign treatment, you will almost certainly need to wear a retainer to keep your teeth in place while the tissues surrounding each tooth settle. Your dentist may recommend wearing a retainer full-time for the first six months following Invisalign treatment, followed by part-time wear for the following six months. Twelve months of retainer wear is typically sufficient time for your jaw to firm up and stabilize your new tooth positions.

However, each person is unique, and each Invisalign treatment plan is unique as well. You may need to wear your retainer for a longer or shorter period depending on your specific situation. Your dentist will provide you with detailed instructions on how to wear your retainer and when to wear it. And, as with treatment, the orthodontist will closely monitor your progress to ensure your smile is settling in properly.

Basic Oral Hygiene

In combination with your retainer, continuing basic oral care is an essential component of your post-Invisalign maintenance. After all, you'll want your newly straightened smile to stay healthy!

To that end, you should brush and floss your teeth twice daily and visit your dentist regularly (as prescribed). If you damage your retainer or suspect there is something wrong with your smile, contact your dentist immediately so they can assess the situation and correct any potential problems.

Have more questions about what to expect after Invisalign treatment is complete? Contact our Victoria dentists today.