Is it common for dental nurses to take care of all the Invisalign procedures?

Question

My invisalign orthodontist only saw me once at the initial appointment. After that, all my invisalign procedures (e.g. scanning, imaging, moulding, putting on attachments, giving instructions, etc.) were done by his nurses. The orthodontist was at the office but was always seeing other patients. Sometimes I have no idea what his nurses are doing and if they were doing a good job. My orthodontist didn't even come by to check on me! Is this is a common practice in an invisalign dental office?

Jennifer S. Stachel, DMD · Answer

Dear CK_kukky,Thank you for posting your question on Real Self.  I will do my best to address your concerns with the information provided.It isn't abnormal for the clinical assistants to perform the duties as described.  The orthodontist does most of the planning before the delivery of your first aligner.  Every office differs in how the doctor handles patient care.  In my office, I do not let my assistants let the patient leave until I have checked them out.  Although, there are offices where the doctor will check in at different times of the treatment.  If you would feel more comfortable having the orthodontist take a quick look at your progress and review your Clinchek at each visit, I would address this with him or her.  I am sure they want you to feel comfortable with your treatment.I hope that this helps and good luck!Best,Dr. Jenn

Greg Guymon, DDS · Answer

In most orthodontic offices the orthodontist does not see every patient at every visit.  This is especially true with invisalign.  Most of the work of an orthodontist using invisalign is done behind the scenes.  The orthodontist designs your smile and digitally aligns your teeth and bite on the computer.  He/She decides the rate, direction and amount of tooth movement.  He also decides the way the teeth will fit together in the end.  All this is done on computer before you even received your first aligner.  Once aligners are delivered he will likely check in on the progress of your case.  If things are progressing ideally he doesn't even need to check on your treatment.  A well trained assistant should be the one giving all instructions, taking impressions, putting on attachments and making sure aligners are fitting well and you are not having problems with your treatment progress.  Do not forget you are paying for results not necessarily for the orthodontist to see you at every visit.  Trust the process. If you are not happy with results or are having problems I wouldn't hesitate to communicate this.

Is it common for dental nurses to take care of all the Invisalign procedures?

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Is it common for dental nurses to take care of all the Invisalign procedures?

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Everything you need to know about Invisalign

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.