Directions
Invisalign & Invisalign Teen
Vanguard is a New Hampshire Invisalign Provider
Invisalign® treatment involves a series of clear, plastic trays called "aligners" that are custom fabricated to precisely fit the patient's teeth. They are worn full-time and are only removed when eating, drinking, brushing and flossing. 
Aligners move the teeth gradually as each new aligner is inserted every 2-3 weeks, depending on the patient's treatment plan.
Invisalign aligners are virtually "invisible", very comfortable and allow the patient to eat without the restrictions that traditional metal braces can impose. Though every patient may not be a candidate for treatment with Invisalign, it is an option for many adults who wouldn't otherwise opt for orthodontic treatment with metal or ceramic braces. Invisalign allows people to straighten their teeth without anyone even knowing they're having orthodontic treatment!
Many teenagers can now be treated with Invisalign's "Invisalign Teen™" program. Compliance in wearing the aligners must be followed, however, in order to attain the best results and complete treatment within the estimated time. Invisalign teen is a wonderful option for teens who are opposed to treatment with traditional metal braces, but desire a beautiful smile.
How Does It Work?
If the doctor determines that Invisalign would work to treat your malocclusion (crooked, crowded or spaces between teeth), the next step is to take Invisalign records. Invisalign records consist of photographs of your teeth and face, special impressions of your teeth, and x-rays.
Once the records have been obtained, the doctor analyzes them in order to properly plan the treatment. Once the treatment is planned, the doctor electronically sends a treatment plan to Align Technology (the makers of Invisalign), along with the records.
Once received at Align Technology, a CAT scan is taken of the impressions, and the software technicians begin working to design the three dimensional virtual treatment plan that is called a Clincheck®.
This Clincheck is an example of an actual
Invisalign case from one of our patients:
This Clincheck is an example of an actual
Invisalign Teen case from one of our patients:
The Clincheck is a virtual model of each movement that the teeth will go through during each stage of treatment, as the patient is advanced from aligner to aligner. As the technicians are creating the clincheck, they are planning for each movement of the teeth as prescribed by the doctor. They will determine which teeth will need to have small tooth-colored attachments bonded to them. These attachments are seen in the clincheck as colored in red. This is only so that the attachments are visible on the treatment plan-they are color matched according to the patient's natural tooth color. Attachments come in many different shapes, depending on what type of movement is needed for that particular tooth. The attachments help to place force where needed to assist in moving the teeth, just as a traditional brace with a wire does. Once treatment is completed, the attachments are easily removed and discarded.
Once the technicians have completed the clincheck, it is sent back to our doctor. The doctor reviews the Clincheck to assure that each movement is correct. If modifications are necessary, the doctor sends the Clincheck back electronically with the requested changes. The technicians make the changes, then send it back to our doctor. This process usually happens a few times between the doctor and the software technicians until the doctor is completely satisfied with the planned movements of the teeth.
Once completed, we invite you back so that the doctor may show you the Clincheck. With just the click of a button, you can watch as your teeth progress through each movement until the final stage when treatment is completed! If you and the doctor are satisfied with the predetermined final result shown on the Clincheck, the case is accepted and Align Technology begins the process of making all of your aligners. Once we receive all of your aligners, we will have you back for your appointment to begin your treatment. Patients are generally seen every 6 weeks, although each patient's treatment plan is customized for their particular needs.
For more information on Invisalign or Invisalign Teen, visit www.invisalign.com or call us today to schedule your complementary Invisalign evaluation!!
