Appointments leading up to Invisalign treatment

After much research into Invisalign, I have finally made the decision to undergo treatment. 


I found the most valuable information from fellow bloggers, so have decided to document my experiences to help others make an informed decision and judge the product for themselves. 


First step was a consultation with the dentist. Yes, a dentist. I discovered that both orthodontists and dentists are able to perform this treatment (I'm in Australia, so not sure about other countries). My dentist went through the basics of Invisalign, gave me some printed information and approximate cost. I took this information home to consider the treatment.


I decided to take the next step, an appointment to have molds/impressions taken of my teeth. The molds were basically mouth guards full of a gooey paste that hardens. These molds were sent off to California where they projected my recommended treatment through the "clincheck" software. This software displays virtual video/images of the stages of  teeth movement required to straighten my crooked teeth. This information also tells you how many retainers you will require and therefore how long your treatment will take. Each retainer is worn for 2 weeks. 


According to my clincheck, i require 22 retainers on the bottom and 27 on the top. So, about 9 months for the bottom and 12 for the top - not bad I'm thinking considering how crooked I consider my teeth (I will post photos as I go along). According to my dentist, most treatments (top and bottom) tend to start and finish at the same time. I'm not fussed that mine wont though, it just means my bottom teeth should be finished about 3 months before my top ones.


I was also told I will require "attachments" on several of my teeth, basically the ones requiring rotation. I am told that these are translucent small attachments bonded to the tooth. Technically these should hot be obvious from a social distance, although they can be seen up close. At first I was a bit hesitant to go through with the treatment because of the attachments, however, it's only 12 or so months of my life and WAY less noticeable than traditional braces.


I was also advised that some patients require refinements at the end of treatment. These are additional retainers, for minor adjustments, for those teeth that may not have moved as predicted through the course of treatment. I've been told that if required they should only add a few additional retainers to the overall treatment. I will cross that bridge when I come to it.


So, after about 4-6 weeks of contemplation and preparation, my retainers are ready to commence treatment next week. 


I'm excited to think I will be on my way to straight teeth in less than a week!!