Ask Dr. Scott: How, exactly, does Invisalign work? [Video]

Perhaps you've wondered recently how Dr. Gregory Scott's use of Invisalign treatment at our convenient Lakeland office manages to straighten teeth without using traditional metallic braces at all? The Invisalign system is a state-of-the-art system of clear, removable aligners that we proudly offer at Scott Orthodontic Associates.

We also have plenty of resources on our website to check out about Invisalign, or give our office a call at (863) 709-1941 to learn if this revolutionary new treatment option is right for you!

Have a GREAT Fourth of July weekend!

Ask Dr. Gregory Scott: Who benefits from Invisalign®?

Part of what makes Invisalign "work" is that the treatment is customizable for pretty much anybody. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment at Scott Orthodontic Associates, the first Dr. Gregory Scott does, is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. And since the aligners are virtually invisible, nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Scott is a certified Invisalign provider. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, please give us a call.

Imagining your life with Invisalign® at Scott Orthodontic Associates

Are you wondering what Invisalign treatment is really like, and what effect it will have on your day-to-day activities? Will it slur your speech? Will people know you're in treatment? You're not alone in your concerns! Our team thought we’d share this list of questions and answers for anyone pondering Invisalign treatment at Scott Orthodontic Associates.

How exactly does Invisalign work?

Using 3-D computer imaging technology, Invisalign creates a series of custom-made, clear aligners exclusively for your teeth, based on the treatment plan that we specify for you. Each aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.

Will I experience pain during treatment?

Most people experience temporary discomfort for a few days after a new aligner is placed. This feeling of pressure is normal and is a sign that Invisalign is working by sequentially moving your teeth to their final destination.

Can other people see that I'm in treatment?

One of the benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are clear. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.

Can I smoke during treatment?

We discourage smoking while wearing the aligners as they may become discolored.

Are there any foods I cannot eat while in treatment?

You can eat normally during the entire course of treatment. One of the advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. Simply take the aligners out before each meal, brush when you're finished eating, then reinsert the aligners afterward.

What about chewing gum?

We recommend removing your aligners for all meals and snacks, as gum and other chewy substances can stick to the aligners.

How often must I wear my aligners?

Aligners should be worn all day, except when eating, brushing, and flossing.

Will my speech be affected by the aligners?

As with any orthodontic treatment, aligners may temporarily affect your speech. If this does happen, your tongue will adjust within a day or two and your speech should return to normal.

How can I clean my aligners?

The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water.

How often must I visit your office during treatment?

For most patients, visits every 6 weeks are frequent enough for us to determine that your treatment is progressing properly. Dr. Scott will provide you with a specific schedule that supports your individual treatment plan.