Invisalign is one of the fastest and most reliable ways to straighten your smile, usually within 6 to 18 months. However, in some cases, even after you’ve finished your last aligner, you might need a little extra time to achieve the best results. So, if your dentist mentions that you need “refinements,” they’re not talking about your manners! Read more below to learn about Invisalign refinements and how they could be the key to your perfect smile.
What Are Invisalign Refinements?
Invisalign refinements are extra sets of clear aligners used to further adjust your smile after your initial treatment. These are a second round of trays designed to correct small movements your teeth didn’t quite make the first time.
It’s not uncommon for teeth to shift a little differently than planned. This could be especially true if you occasionally forgot to wear your trays or lost an aligner during your treatment. Refinements help get your treatment back on track, so your final results match your plan perfectly.
How Do Refinements Work?
At or near the end of your Invisalign treatment, once your progress has been evaluated, your dentist will decide whether refinements are needed. If so, they’ll take new scans or impressions of your teeth and send them off to have new aligners made.
You’ll wear these new trays like before, switching them out every one to two weeks depending on your dentist’s recommendation. Refinements usually don’t last as long as your original treatment, but the timeline varies based on how much movement your teeth still need to meet your goals.
Are Refinements Worth It?
While it can feel frustrating to add more time to your treatment, refinements are often the key to a fantastic finish. They ensure your bite lines up properly, your teeth are fully straightened, and your smile looks as symmetrical as possible.
Without them, you could end up with small imperfections that could leave you unsatisfied with your smile or issues that require extra treatment later. In short, a few extra weeks now can save you months of stress, future corrections, or extra costs.
Invisalign refinements may seem like a setback on the surface, but they’re really just an opportunity to perfect your results. With just a bit more patience and consistency, you’ll be flashing your fully aligned smile before you know it.
About the Practice
At Mason Dental, our team of dental experts uses advanced treatments like Invisalign to help patients achieve their dream smiles. Whether your case is simple or complex, we can create a treatment plan that works with your lifestyle and your budget. Call (802) 362-1099 to schedule an Invisalign consultation with our experienced team or visit our website to learn more.