Does Invisalign Work Permanently?

Invisalign is a popular alternative to metal braces. These clear aligners are extremely effective at treating a variety of bite and tooth alignment issues in a discreet and much more comfortable way.

But you may wonder how long the results can last. Are your teeth at risk of moving back to their original position? This short blog post from Green Leaf Dental has the answer! 

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign is a type of clear aligner that, when worn, puts pressure on the teeth to slowly move them to their best position. First, patients get their mouths scanned, after which an Invisalign lab manufactures several trays to map out the exact movement of the teeth. 

During your treatment, you’ll need to wear the aligners for at least 22 hours every day. Like braces, Invisalign needs constant contact with your teeth, so you should only take them out to eat, drink anything other than water, and brush your teeth. 

Can Your Teeth Move Back After Invisalign Treatment? 

Invisalign can permanently fix your teeth alignment issues, but only if you help it along the way. With all forms of orthodontic treatment, there is always a risk that teeth can migrate back to their original position. 

Luckily, you can reduce this risk tremendously by wearing a custom retainer. They’re made from a similar material as Invisalign, so they're comfortable. Even better, you won’t have to wear them all the time. 

How Do You Wear a Retainer? 

Your retainers will play a crucial role in the first few months after your Invisalign treatment. Your teeth will be a lot more vulnerable to migrating back in the first 12 months, so you will most likely need to wear your retainers daily. 

Every retainer plan is different, but most often, people only need to wear their retainers while they sleep. After the first year, you can wear your retainer for only 3 or 5 nights a week. Some patients can maintain their results by only wearing them for one night a week. 

The frequency will be established by an orthodontist or the dentist who oversaw your Invisalign treatment. It’s crucial not to make these decisions yourself, as you can affect your new tooth alignment. If you have retainers and notice they don’t fit anymore, you likely need a new pair and should wear them more often. 

Find Out If Invisalign Is Right for You 

If you have mild to moderate alignment issues and generally healthy teeth, you’re most likely a great candidate for Invisalign in Seattle. 

But you can find out if that’s the case with just a short consultation with Dr. Yoni or Dr. Bean. If the assessment goes your way, they can scan your teeth to get your custom trays started right away. 

Schedule an Invisalign consultation at Green Leaf Dental online or call us at (206) 316-2351 for more information.