How Clear Aligners Move Teeth
Each Invisalign® aligner is made to apply gentle, controlled pressure to specific teeth. You wear one set for a period of time, and then you switch to the next set in your series. Every new tray is slightly different from the last, which is how your teeth shift gradually toward their planned positions. Because the plan is mapped out in advance, Dr. Patel can see where your teeth are headed and track your progress along the way. The aligners are made from smooth, clear plastic, so they feel comfortable against your cheeks and lips. Regular checkups let Dr. Patel make sure everything is moving as expected.
Benefits of Invisalign®
Between work, family, and everything else on your calendar, orthodontic treatment has to fit into your daily routine. Invisalign was designed with that in mind, since the aligners are discreet and you can take them out when you need to. You can attend meetings, enjoy social events, and share meals without feeling like your treatment is on display. Here are some of the reasons patients say they appreciate clear aligners.
- Discreet appearance. The clear trays are much less noticeable than metal braces.
- Removable for meals. You take them out to eat, so you do not have to change your diet.
- Easier cleaning. You can brush and floss normally, since nothing is fixed to your teeth.
- Comfortable fit. The trays are smooth and have no metal brackets or wires.
- A plan you can see ahead. Your treatment is mapped out in advance so you know what to expect.
Straightening Your Smile, Tray by Tray
Invisalign® treatment is organized into clear stages, so you always know where you are in the process. Our team stays close by to answer questions and make adjustments. Here is how your journey typically unfolds.
01
Consultation and Exam
Dr. Patel looks at your teeth, gums, and bite and talks with you about your goals. He lets you know whether Invisalign® is a good fit.
02
Digital Scan and Records
We capture detailed records of your teeth so your aligners can be custom-made. These records guide the design of your treatment plan.
03
Reviewing Your Plan
Dr. Patel walks you through the plan and explains how your teeth are expected to move. You can ask questions and share any concerns before treatment begins.
04
Receiving Your Aligners
We fit your first set of trays and show you how to wear and care for them. You also learn how often to switch to the next set.
05
Checkups Along the Way
You return for visits so Dr. Patel can see how your teeth are responding. He adjusts the plan if needed to keep you on track.
06
Finishing with a Retainer
Once your teeth reach their new positions, you receive a retainer to help hold them in place. Wearing it as directed protects your results.
Smile Concerns Invisalign May Help With
Clear aligners can address a variety of alignment problems. We will examine your teeth and bite to see how Invisalign can help in your case. Results depend on your individual situation, and some cases may need a different approach. Here are some of the concerns that clear aligners are often used to treat.
Crowded Teeth
There is not enough room in the jaw, so teeth overlap or twist, which can make them harder to clean.
Gaps Between Teeth
Spaces can form between teeth, and aligners can gradually guide them closer together.
Overbite
The upper front teeth sit too far over the lower front teeth.
Underbite
The lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth.
Crossbite
Some upper teeth close inside the lower teeth, so the teeth do not line up properly when you bite.
Teeth That Have Shifted
Teeth can drift over the years, and aligners can help move them back into place.
Daily Habits for Smooth Progress
Invisalign® works best when you wear the aligners as directed, and a few simple habits help you stay on track. Dr. Patel will give you specific instructions, and these are some basics that make a difference.
- Wear your aligners for as many hours each day as Dr. Patel recommends
- Take them out when you eat and drink anything other than water
- Brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in
- Clean your aligners daily, so they stay fresh and clear
- Keep your case with you so your trays do not get lost or damaged
Keeping Your New Smile in Place
Straightening your teeth is only part of the process, because teeth have a natural tendency to drift back. That is why a retainer is an important last step. Dr. Patel will explain how long you should wear it and how to care for it so your results last. Keeping up with regular checkups also helps us make sure your smile stays healthy and aligned. With a little ongoing care, you can enjoy your straighter smile for years to come.
See What Invisalign® Can Do for You
If you have been thinking about straightening your teeth, now is a great time to learn more. Request an appointment with Hawaii Pacific Dental Group, and Dr. Patel will help you understand whether Invisalign® is a good fit. Our friendly Honolulu team will answer your questions and help you take the first step.
Request an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions About Invisalign®
Many people with crowded teeth, gaps, or bite concerns are good candidates, but it depends on your individual case. Dr. Patel will examine your teeth, gums, and bite at Hawaii Pacific Dental Group in Honolulu and tell you whether Invisalign® can help.
Invisalign® works when the aligners are worn for most of the day, and you take them out only for eating, drinking, and cleaning. Dr. Patel will give you the exact schedule for your treatment.
You remove your aligners to eat and drink anything other than water so you can enjoy your usual foods. Be sure to brush your teeth before putting the aligners back in so food does not get trapped underneath.
The aligners are made from clear plastic and fit closely over your teeth, so they are much less noticeable than metal braces. Most people will not notice them unless you point them out.
Most patients feel mild pressure when they start a new set of trays, which is a sign that your teeth are moving. The aligners are smooth and comfortable, though speaking may feel slightly different for the first few days.
You will have periodic checkups so Dr. Patel can see how your teeth are responding and make any needed adjustments. Our team will tell you how often to come in based on your plan.
After your teeth reach their new positions, you will wear a retainer to help keep them in place. Dr. Patel will explain how long to wear it and how to care for it.
Hawaii Pacific Dental Group is located at 6700 Kalanianaole Hwy Ste 216 Honolulu, HI 96825. We welcome patients from Hawaii Kai and throughout East Honolulu. Request an appointment to meet Dr. Patel.
