Bellevue Orthodontists

How are Invisalign Impressions taken?

What can I expect from my Invisalign impression appointment? Will the dentist know if a good impression was made during the visit, or will I have to wait until they are processed?

Invisalign impressions are taken by a thoroughly trained orthodontic assistant. These assistants have had numerous hours of training in order to achieve highest quality impressions with minimal discomfort to the patient. There are multiple different techniques used, however, the end goal is the same: crisp margins, detailed edges showing, material adhesion is excellent, and all dental anatomy present. In our office, our certified orthodontic assistant is able to visually inspect quality, then have it approved by the orthodontist.  She has completed invisalign continuing education in order to deliver perfect impressions and minimize re-impressions. If done correctly, there is no need for a second impression.

Bobby Virk, DMD, MSD

Bellevue Orthodontist

Will Invisalign Express Be Enough for Gapped Teeth?

My only problem is that I have space in between my front two teeth. My teeth are not crooked, nor severly damaged. Will Express be sufficient enough for me? The space is about 3-4 mm.

The treatment depends upon the underlying cause. Is the gap because of the soft tissue in between the teeth too tough, the treatment would be to take care of the tissue before we move the teeth.

The second could be the bite which is cause for the space. In that case the bite has to be fixed before.

Now regarding the movement of teeth. As a rule of thumb, teeth move 0.25-0.5 mm a month. If we move it fast then it will most probably relapse. Slow is fast and stable in orthodontics.

I would strongly recommend getting a thorough complimentary consultation from a certified Orthodontist to see your options.

Bobby Virk, DMD, MSD

Bellevue Orthodontist

Invisalign Express for One Crooked Tooth?

One of my bottom front four teeth is slightly pointed back. My top teeth are in good alignment, but it's just this one bottom front tooth. I had braces in high school, and had great results. I stopped wearing my retainers since my 1st year in college. I'm not an expert, but is there room for it to fit between the teeth on either side? I have heard of Invisalign Express and I was just wondering if you think this is a good solution or would you recommend an alternative? Thanks.

Unfortunately without seeing all the records its very difficult to give a specific answer. Invisalign express is very monor teeth movement with can be accomplished with under 10 aligners. What you dont want to do is rushing the movement of teeth and ending up with relapse again. It is very possible to do under 10 aligners. If there is a space issue (this particular tooth being pushed inwards as there is not enough space) we have tocreate space by either expanding the arch or by doing some selective filing of the teeth so that we can accomodate this tooth without risk of relapse.

I would recommend seeing a certified Orthodontist for a complimentary consultation.

Bobby Virk, DMD, MSD

Bellevue Orthodontist