While wearing Invisalign, you may not suspect anything is wrong. However, your dentist might see things differently and suggest an adjustment to your treatment – Invisalign refinements. Before you assume this recommendation means there is a serious problem, keep reading to discover why they can help keep your smile on track.
What are Invisalign Refinements?
Invisalign refinements are a different set of clear trays that work just like regular Invisalign but are instead crafted to address a specific need. They are recommended by dentists when an adjustment is required to ensure successful results.
It may be that a gap is not closing as quickly as it should, or teeth are not moving into alignment. However, with Invisalign refinements, these trays can address the issue and minimize treatment delays.
How Can I Know if I Need Refinements?
According to most dentists, it is believed there is an 80-90% success rate of Invisalign targeting and fixing dental issues. The other 20% require more help to keep things moving in the right direction.
During a follow-up appointment, you can expect your dentist to review your progress and look for anything that might indicate a problem. If your teeth are not moving like they should, you can expect these additional trays to be incorporated into your plan.
Although it is likely to extend the timeframe of your treatment by a few months, their inclusion will help ensure successful results.
Why Will a Dentist Recommend Invisalign Refinements?
It’s important not to look at your need for refinements as a bad thing. Some reasons are ones you can avoid, while others are simply out of your control.
For example, if you’re not wearing your trays a full 22 hours a day, refinements may be required. If you’re without your trays for an extended period because of an injury or illness, you might need additional help with refinements.
Everyone responds to Invisalign differently, so while your dentist may project that you’ll only need orthodontic treatment for 12 months, if your teeth are not moving as quickly as expected, refinements can be used to address the issue and get your smile back on track.
Don’t be dismayed should you need Invisalign refinements. Instead, look at this inclusion as a proactive way to address certain issues so that your smile looks and feels its best once treatment is complete.
About the Author
Dr. Susan Partovi is a dentist with more than 30 years of experience. Delivering personalized care to her patients, she understands the desire to achieve a straighter smile without bulky, metal braces. This is why she offers Invisalign to those who need help with overcrowding, gaps, and bite misalignment. She also provides Invisalign refinements should additional adjustments be required throughout treatment. If you have questions about orthodontics or need help to learn why your teeth aren’t moving as they should, contact us at (301) 990-0020.