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How Often to See Your Dentist with Invisalign

Jan 13, 2020

Whether you are considering beginning treatment with Invisalign or you have already started your treatment, you may be wondering how often you will need to see your dentist during this treatment process. Although you do not have to visit your dentist as often as you would if you had traditional braces, there are times when you will need to visit your dentist to ensure your treatment stays on track.

At Severns Dentistry & Orthodontics, we have put together a timeline of how often you can expect to visit your dentist when using Invisalign.

Initial Consultation to Develop Invisalign Treatment Plan

To begin your Invisalign treatment, you will visit your orthodontist so they can take 3D images of your teeth. These images will be used to create a customized treatment plan to help you get the results you desire.

Follow up Visits to Ensure Treatment is on Track

Invisalign treatment differs for everyone depending on the dental issues that are being corrected, so the timing of office visits will vary for each patient. In most cases, patients undergoing Invisalign treatment will usually have to visit their orthodontist every four to six weeks.

These follow up visits are a way for your orthodontist to check that your treatment is progressing as planned. When undergoing treatment with Invisalign, you will receive a new set of aligners every week or two. Each new set of aligners will work to move your teeth closer to the proper position. With regular follow up visits, your orthodontist will be able to check that the aligners are doing their job.

When to Visit Your Orthodontist Outside of Follow Up Visits

Aside from your scheduled follow up visits, you may need to see your orthodontist for other issues. For example, if you lose a set of aligners, you will need to visit your orthodontist to see if you require a replacement set of aligners or if you can move on to a new set of aligners.

Another reason to visit your orthodontist outside of regular follow-ups is if you are concerned that you are not seeing any results. Every patient is different when using the Invisalign treatment. Some will see results within weeks of starting treatment, while others may not see noticeable results for a few months.

If you have been wearing your Invisalign aligners consistently for 20-22 hours a day over the course of several months and still have not seen results, it is recommended that you schedule an appointment with your orthodontist to see what can be done to get your treatment back on track.

Schedule Your Free Invisalign Consultation at Severns Dentistry & Orthodontics Today! 

When you are searching for “Invisalign treatment near me,” be sure to choose Severns Dentistry & Orthodontics for all of your Invisalign treatment needs. We provide high-quality, expert dental and orthodontic care to our patients to help you achieve and maintain a confident smile. Contact us today to schedule your free Invisalign consultation.

A woman in a white shirt is smiling for the camera.

Author: Natalie Severns, DMD


Upon graduating from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Severns specialized in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. She then did an externship in London, England, at the prestigious Guy’s Hospital. At this hospital, she learned top therapies in Dentofacial Orthopedics to provide her patients with the best possible facial esthetics.

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Typically, the initial visit will comprise a whirlwind of activities, including completing new patient forms, consultations with pediatric dentists and dental hygienists, and perhaps even a gentle mock exam to familiarize your child. The key is to turn what could be a stressful experience into a fun adventure – we want your child to look forward to visiting the dentist for years to come. Roles of Dental Staff Families will likely be introduced to various dental staff members, each with their unique role in promoting a positive experience. The dentist will discuss the importance of oral hygiene and assess your child's dental health, while hygienists will talk you through the best home care based on your child's individual needs. Don't be surprised if office team members create an atmosphere of playfulness – they're there to make every child feel at home. Preparing Your Child for the Dentist A dentist's chair isn't your child's natural habitat, but with the proper preparation, it doesn't have to be a place of fear. It's all about setting expectations and conveying the importance of dental care so that your child can feel invested and in control. Sharing positive stories of your own dental experiences, using children's dentistry' show and tell' methods like role-playing, and coordinating appointments during the same time as you can all establish a sense of normalcy for your child. Other ways to prepare your child for their first dentist visit include: Explaining the purpose of the visit in a relatable, non-intimidating manner Encouraging your child to ask questions and express any concerns they may have Choosing a child-friendly dental office that offers toys, games, and other distractions Discussing the Importance of Dental Health Conversation is critical in priming children for their first dental experience. 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Scheduling the Appointment Choose an appointment time that coincides with your child's typically happy hours, avoiding meal and nap times. A relaxed, well-fed child is much more likely to engage positively with the dental staff, making the experience more pleasant for all involved. What to Bring Be sure to bring your child's medical history, a list of questions you have for the dentist, and their favorite toy, book, or blanket to help comfort them. Other things to bring to their first appointment include: A bottle of water in case your child gets thirsty A change of clothes in case of any accidents or spills Any relevant insurance information or completed patient forms During the Appointment Even the most well-prepared children can have moments of nervousness. During the appointment, you are the lighthouse, guiding them through any apprehension and ensuring effective communication between your dentist and your child. 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