If you’re dreaming of having a straighter smile but don’t want to deal with the hassle of metal braces, then you might benefit from Invisalign. This popular alternative to traditional orthodontics utilizes clear plastic aligner trays to gently move your teeth to their ideal positions. Typically, this method can be completed in 12 months but some patients require refinements which can elongate your treatment timeline.   

It’s natural to feel confused or frustrated if your dentist has just informed you that you need additional aligners. Understanding why this happens and what it means can help set your mind at ease. Keep reading to learn more about it!

What Are Invisalign Refinements?

These are additional sets of trays that may be required to make necessary adjustments to complete your orthodontic treatment. When you started Invisalign, your dentist provided a plan based on digitally produced aligners tailored to your specific needs. In some instances, your teeth don’t shift as anticipated, so refinements need to be made to get you back on track.

Why Do I Need Invisalign Refinements?

Corrections to your Invisalign trays might be required if you:

• Fail to wear aligners as long as necessary. You will need to have your trays in your mouth for 22 hours every day or your teeth could revert to their initial placements.
• Experience an illness or accident. If you take a long break from wearing your aligners because of other medical conditions, then you will need additional trays to catch up.
• Have stubborn teeth. Some teeth simply aren’t as flexible and willing to move as anticipated, so your dentist has to make changes to account for this.

Although some circumstances are out of your control, by wearing your aligners as instructed and switching to new sets at the designated time, you’re less likely to need refinements.

How Does My Dentist Implement Invisalign Refinements?

The steps involved in creating your refinements are similar to the initial Invisalign process. First, your dentist will examine your oral condition to determine whether adjustments are required. Then, they’ll digitally scan your teeth and bite alignment to rebuild the remainder of your treatment timeline. Finally, the extra trays will be sent to you to be worn as directed to get your grin back in line.

Do Invisalign Refinements Take Long to Complete?

If you need Invisalign refinements, you can expect anywhere from 3 to 6 additional months added to your overall treatment timeline. It all depends on your unique circumstances, so only your dentist can give you an accurate estimate based on your situation.

It’s natural to feel annoyed about unanticipated changes to your orthodontics, especially when it’s out of your control. However, it’ll be worth it in the end when you remove your last set of aligners to show off your newly perfected grin!

About the Author

Dr. Drew Vanderbrook earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology with a Business minor from Texas A&M University before pursuing his Doctor of Dental Surgery at Baylor College of Dentistry. He has continued to hone his skills and knowledge with ongoing educational courses at the Spear Center for Dental Excellence so that he can offer the most up-to-date solutions using state-of-the-art technology. If you’re interested in Invisalign and would like a consultation, you’re welcome to request an appointment online or by calling (214) 821-5200.