How to Get Invisalign: Step-by-Step Guide by Dr. Chris Freeman
The path to straight teeth has never been more straightforward.
You no longer need a mouth full of metal to achieve a beautiful smile. The practically invisible, removable aligners offered by Invisalign have changed everything. This innovative orthodontic system uses a series of custom aligners to gradually shift your teeth. It doesn’t come with wires, brackets and major interruptions to your daily life. You can eat what you want, clean your teeth easily, and progress through treatment without anyone noticing (even you’ll forget the aligners are there).
But getting the best results requires the right process. That’s why we have developed this complete guide on how to get Invisalign.
Based on the proven patient-focused protocol employed by the leading Freeman Orthodontics clinic based in Fort Lauderdale, this guide breaks down the process into a clear, step-by-step roadmap, from the initial consultation to the day you get your retainer, and beyond.
Why Choose Invisalign?
Invisalign was created to fix all the major frustrations associated with traditional braces. Instead of bulky metal, it uses a series of transparent aligners. These sets apply gentle, continuous pressure that gradually shifts your teeth into desired positions. Here are the reasons why so many patients choose this modern system.
Discreet Appearance
The aligners use a transparent medical-grade material called SmartTrack®. Each aligner is crafted to mold perfectly over your tooth structure, so you don’t have to worry about the “metal-mouth” look that comes with traditional braces, which means you can undergo treatment without drawing unnecessary attention from others in professional, social, or other settings.
Removability
Traditional braces are fixed permanently. Invisalign can be easily taken out for short periods. You can freely enjoy all your favorite foods, since there’s no risk of damaging fixed brackets. It also allows for normal brushing and flossing, which is fundamental for maintaining excellent oral hygiene throughout your treatment.
True Comfort
Brackets and wires that rub against your cheeks and gums are a terrible source of discomfort when using traditional braces. With Invisalign, all you may feel is a bit of pressure for a day or two when switching to a new set. This is far less discomfort than the frequent adjustments needed with traditional braces.
Proven Effectiveness
Invisalign is not just for minor cosmetic fixes. With advancements in digital treatment technology, Invisalign effectively treats a wide range of issues. This includes crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and more.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to How to Get Invisalign
Follow this proven roadmap to getting Invisalign (and the smile you deserve).
Step 1: Schedule Your Consultation
A thorough initial consultation is absolutely essential. This appointment is designed to determine if the clear aligners are the right fit for you. First, you’ll discuss your smile goals. Next, the orthodontist will conduct a full assessment of your needs. Make sure to choose an experienced and certified provider, and don’t worry about the cost yet – many top clinics don’t charge for the first visit. Freeman Orthodontics in Fort Lauderdale, for example, offers complimentary initial consultations, making it easy to start the process. The goal is to collect all the information needed to build your custom treatment plan. This visit usually includes:
- X-rays and Photos: This appointment starts with capturing X-rays of the whole jaw and photographs of the smile. This helps see the condition of the roots and jawbone.
- A Digital Scan: Instead of using messy putty, a small, comfortable wand will be used to scan your teeth. This creates a perfect 3D digital model of your mouth on a computer, which is used to design your aligners.
- A Full Assessment: The orthodontist will look at all the collected information to fully understand your bite and what needs to be corrected. Plus, they will confirm that Invisalign is the right choice for your specific situation.
Step 2: Get Your Customized Treatment Plan
Using the digital scan of your teeth, your orthodontist will use special software to design your entire treatment from start to finish. This includes:
Precise Movement Mapping: Your orthodontist plans the exact position of each tooth at every stage, determining how much force to apply and in what direction. This includes planning for any necessary attachments (tooth-colored bumps bonded to your teeth) that help the aligners grip and perform more complex movements.
A Virtual Preview: A personalized ClinCheck® video will provide a preview of your entire smile transformation. This animation will show the entire process, from your current smile to your final result, showing the projected movement of your teeth week-by-week.
A Clear Timeline: Based on the complexity of your case, the plan will estimate a specific treatment time. It will clearly outline the total number of aligners, and how often you will need to change them (typically every 2 weeks), giving you a realistic expectation for how long everything will take.
Collaborative Final Approval: This is your chance to review the projected outcome and timeline. You can discuss the plan with your orthodontist and provide your input before the custom aligners are manufactured.
Step 3: Receive Your Aligners
With your treatment plan finalized, the creation of your custom aligners begins. Your first fitting appointment is a comprehensive process: the orthodontist will meticulously check the fit of your aligners, bonding subtle, tooth-colored attachments to certain teeth in case your treatment requires extra grip for complex rotations. Next, you will learn about your new daily routine. This is a strict 20-22 hour regimen, with removals allowed for eating,, and maintaining oral hygiene. Remember: as you switch to a new set every two weeks, a feeling of pressure is not just common, it’s the proof that your teeth are moving toward their new positions.
Step 4: Go in for Regular Check-ups and Adjustments
You’ll have periodic appointments at your orthodontist’s office, typically every 6 to 8 weeks. These visits are essential for monitoring your progress and ensuring your treatment stays on track. During these brief check-ups, the orthodontic assistant and orthodontist will assess your teeth’s movement and provide you with your next series of aligners. These consistent touchpoints are a key part of achieving a successful outcome.
Step 5: Maintain Results Through Retention
Completing your active Invisalign treatment is a major achievement, but nothing is over yet. The retention phase is a critical, long-term part of the process that will protect your investment and maintain your new smile.
Why Do You Need Retainers?
When your teeth move into new spots, it is impossible to get them fixed in place instantly. The bone and gums around them need time to settle and solidify. Think of it like this: your teeth have a memory and will try to move back to where they used to be. This is called relapse. Your retainer is what stops this from happening. It holds your teeth in place so your jaw bone has time to grow firmly around them. If you don’t wear your retainer as directed, your teeth can shift back, and you can lose the results from all your treatment.
Types of Retainers
Both retainer options have distinct benefits, and you can choose the one most fitting your preferences.
- Clear Essix Retainers look very similar to your Invisalign aligners. They are removable, transparent, and fit over your entire arch of teeth. They are discreet and easy to clean but can be lost or damaged over time.
- Hawley Retainers are made of a resin that fits along the palate (roof of your mouth) or under your tongue (the bottom of your mouth and have a thick metal wire that fits along the front of your teeth. The downside is that it requires extra diligence with brushing it to keep it clean. This kind of retainer lasts longer than a clear essix retainer and is typically used for young children, not adult unless requested.
Checklist: Preparing for Your Invisalign Consultation
Being prepared for your first appointment helps ensure you get all the information you need. Here’s what to bring with you:
1. Personal Identification
A driver’s license or other government-issued ID.
2. Dental Insurance Card
If you have orthodontic coverage, bring your insurance information to verify benefits.
3. Recent Dental Records
Any recent X-rays (if you have them) from your general dentist. An orthodontist typically uses a specialized X-ray called a panorex or panoramic X-ray that shows aloof your teeth and TMJ.
4. Your List of Questions
Write down any questions you have about the process, cost, or timeline beforehand so you don’t forget to ask. No question or concern is too small or unimportant.
Why Choose Freeman Orthodontics for Your Invisalign Treatment
The qualifications of your provider are a critical consideration in your decision about where to receive Invisalign treatment. Several key factors establish Freeman Orthodontics as a premier choice in Fort Lauderdale:
Proven Expertise with a Personal Touch
Being a private practice, Dr. Freeman and his committed team personally guide your treatment from the initial appointment to the final result. This continuity of care means the person who plans your treatment is the same one overseeing every adjustment – a distinct advantage over larger corporate clinics, where you might have to repeatedly explain your situation to a rotating cast of unfamiliar faces.
An Efficient Process
The tested and proven Freeman Orthodontics process is so streamlined, most patients start their treatment on the same day as their first visit. The clinic uses the most modern intraoral scanning tech available in the world. The scanner creates a precise 3D model of your teeth digitally (no uncomfortable, messy impression putty is used). The clinic uses this picture to map out your entire treatment plan and can show you a preview of expected results.
Patient-First Approach
The practice is built on creating a welcoming, family-like atmosphere. From flexible pаyment options designed to make care accessible, to a supportive team that guides you through each step, the focus is on ensuring you are informed and comfortable throughout your smile transformation.
Complimentary First Consultation
Your journey should begin with no financial pressure. The practice offers a comprehensive, no-cost initial consultation with absolutely no obligations. This visit is designed to be a true discovery session, where you can discuss your goals, receive a preliminary assessment, and have all your questions answered in detail. This policy ensures you can make a confident, informed choice without any commitment.
Family-Focused Care
Recognizing that orthodontic needs span a lifetime, the practice is equipped to treat both adults and children. This family-centric approach means that parents and children can receive coordinated, high-quality care in one trusted location. The team is skilled in managing the different requirements of various age groups (from the early developmental stages of a child to the more complex aesthetic demands of an adult) making it a convenient solution for the entire family.
Flexible Financing
Everyone deserves access to high-quality orthodontic treatment. That’s why Freeman Orthodontics provides a range of payment options: both in-house, interest-free monthly payment plans that require no third party, and extended financing options through trusted partners.
Award-Winning Expertise
The clinic is led by Dr. Chris Freeman, the longest-serving orthodontist in Fort Lauderdale, who has been consistently voted the Best Orthodontist in Fort Lauderdale, year after year.
Now That You Know How to Get Invisalign…
The question is, are you ready?
Getting the smile you deserve is no longer a distant dream, punctuated by sacrifice and discomfort. It is a clear, attainable path. Invisalign isn’t an alternative to metal braces. It is a fundamental reimagining of orthodontic care, where your lifestyle and confidence are placed at the forefront. The chance to seamlessly integrate transformative treatment into your daily life (without altering what you eat, how you care for your teeth, or how you present yourself to the world) is the true innovation. You have already taken the most critical step by educating yourself on the process. The only thing left is to take action.
The distinction between a good outcome and an exceptional one lies in the expertise guiding you. In Fort Lauderdale, Freeman Orthodontics embodies this standard of excellence. By combining advanced digital planning with a genuine, personal approach, the award-winning clinic ensures your results are not only precise but also tailored to your unique needs. This patient-first philosophy means you will be guided, informed, and fully supported throughout your entire journey, with your smile design created directly by Dr. Freeman.
Start that journey today, for free. Schedule your complimentary consultation with Freeman Orthodontics and discover how straightforward your transformation can be.
Frequently Asked Questions on How to Get Invisalign
How long does it take to get Invisalign?
Treatment time varies based on the complexity of your case, but most adults complete treatment in 12 to 18 months. Minor corrections can take as little as 6 months. Your orthodontist will provide a specific timeline after your digital scan.
How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost depends on your specific needs, but it is generally comparable to traditional braces. At Freeman Orthodontics, we provide a clear cost breakdown after your consultation and offer flexible payment plans to make treatment affordable.
How often do I have to wear the aligners?
For the treatment to be effective, you must wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day. They should only be removed for eating, and brushing your teeth.
Is there any food restriction with Invisalign?
No. You don’t have to change anything about how or what you eat. This is one of the biggest advantages of Invisalign. Since you remove the aligners to eat, you can continue to enjoy all your favorite foods.
How often are check-up appointments?
Around every 6-8 weeks. Brief check-ups with your orthodontist are important for monitoring your progress and making sure your treatment is well on track.
Will Invisalign affect my speech?
No long-term effect! There may be a short adjustment period of a day or two where you notice a slight lisp. However, most people adapt quickly, and their speech returns to normal as their tongue gets used to the aligners.
Is Invisalign right for teenagers?
Yes! Invisalign Teen is specifically designed for younger patients. As long as each set is worn 20-22 hours per day for a minimum of 14 days, beautiful smiles can be achieved.
What happens after my treatment is complete?
Once your teeth have moved into their final positions, you will enter the retention phase. You will be fitted for a retainer, which is essential for preventing your teeth from shifting back. Consistent retainer wear is the key to maintaining your new smile forever.
How do you get Invisalign?
The process is simple. You start with a consultation with an orthodontist to see if you’re a candidate. If you proceed, they take digital scans of your teeth. These scans are used to create a custom 3D treatment plan, which you can preview before your aligners are manufactured. You’ll then wear each set of clear aligners in the series as directed, with periodic check-ups at your orthodontist.
How old do you have to be to get Invisalign?
There is no strict age limit. The system is effective for both adults and teens. For younger patients, Invisalign Teen is designed specifically to accommodate growing jaws and includes features to ensure compliance. The best way to determine if a child is ready is through an orthodontic evaluation, which is often recommended around age 7.
Contact Details
If you’re ready to start your Invisalign journey or have any questions, reach out to us at Freeman Orthodontics. Our team is here to guide you through every step of your treatment!
Freeman Orthodontics
Phone: (954) 772-1600
Email: info@freemanortho.com
