In the initial stage, an orthodontist begins by collecting dental impressions, x-rays and photographs of the patient’s teeth and sending them to Align Technology. The impressions are put through a CT scan from which a computer creates a three-dimensional model. Technicians then individualize the teeth in the computer model and move them to their final position as prescribed by the orthodontist. Custom software then simulates the movement of the teeth in stages. The orthodontist reviews the simulation online using Align Technology’s ClinCheck via a web browser and approves or modifies the treatment. Once approved, a plastic resin aligner is manufactured for each stage of the computer simulation and shipped to the orthodontist.

‘Attachments’ are sometimes bonded to teeth that need to be “rotated” or moved more than other teeth. Clients can expect as many as thirteen attachments. They are tooth-colored and made of a glass-like substance.

‘Reproximation’ is a process by which the contacts between teeth are sanded down to allow for a better fit. This may also be a part of treatment.

The average treatment time for Invisalign is about 1 year, and again it depends on the complexity of the treatment. Simple treatments (minor crowding, minor spacing) may take as short as 140 days. Although the aligners are removable, they must be worn at least 20 to 22 hours per day to avoid delaying the treatment process. If they are not worn consistently, treatment time will increase.

After the regular aligner or braces treatment is complete, retainers composed of a similar plastic material are usually required to be worn, at least at night.

Like other orthodontic systems, the patient has some flexibility. The final position of the teeth is not completely determined by the last aligner. If the patient wants to change the end position because the actual position is not optimal, new aligners are ordered, which are usually included in the originally quoted cost, called a ‘Refinement.’