While you are on your orthodontic journey with Invisalign, you may be excited for the final results. You’ll have a straighter smile that you love, but if your dentist mentioned refinement trays, then you might’ve raised an eyebrow about them. You may be relieved to hear they aren’t much different from your other clear aligners! Keep reading to learn what Invisalign refinements are and how they can help you.
What Are Invisalign Refinements?
As a quick refresher, your teeth are slowly being moved with a gentle, consistent pressure by your aligners when you wear them. You have them in for 20 to 22 hours every day; however, there might be a time when your smile doesn’t move as intended. Thankfully, this can be caught before it becomes an issue when you have checkup visits with your dentist every six to eight weeks.
If there are any issues, you will be given refinement trays to help get your treatment back on track. They are often made to help make the adjustments, such as a gap not closing as planned, or if your teeth aren’t aligning properly. There may be more instances where you need them, but it varies from patient to patient.
Do I Need Invisalign Refinements?
This question is a tough one to answer while you are undergoing orthodontic treatment. Your smile-straightening journey is planned out, and you are given multiple sets of aligners at a time, so it’s normal to imagine that it goes without a hitch. However, planning for your teeth not moving as expected is impossible, so you may need refinement trays, or you might not. Some people will get them sooner, while it may not be necessary for others.
It’s important to understand that needing them doesn’t mean you aren’t properly following your aligner routine. Even if you are diligent about it, you may still need them, so don’t get down if you do! That being said, if you tend not to have your Invisalign in for the required time, then you are more likely to need some refinement.
How Can I Meet the 22-Hour Wear Time?
Keeping your Invisalign in for the full amount that you need can help reduce your chances of needing refinement aligners. Only take your trays out when you are eating and brushing, plus it might be helpful to set timers to keep you on track. While you may need them, don’t get disheartened. Know that they will help you get to a healthier bite that you feel more confident in!
About the Author
Dr. Bradley Mitchell earned his dental degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry. He has undergone advanced Invisalign training to help his patients get the best smile that they deserve. Dr. Mitchell is here to help you out while you are on your orthodontic journey and will give you the tips you need to make it as effective and convenient as possible. If you have misaligned teeth you want to correct, schedule an appointment or call his office at (405) 755-2670.
