Why Dental Check-Ups Matter Before Starting Invisalign

Before you start Invisalign, your dentist will recommend a complete dental check-up. This step is essential, as it helps identify issues like cavities or gum disease that could interfere with your treatment.

A check-up ensures your teeth and gums are healthy enough to support your aligners. It also helps your dentist create an effective treatment plan, so you can get results without unnecessary delays.

What Is Invisalign

Invisalign is a treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to straighten your teeth over time. Each aligner makes small adjustments to tooth position. You switch to a new aligner every one to two weeks.

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible and can be taken out when eating, brushing, and flossing. This makes them popular for people who want flexibility and a low-profile treatment option.

Why You Need a Dental Exam Before Invisalign

Dental check-ups help your dentist do two important things:

• Find and treat problems like gum disease or cavities
• Confirm that your mouth is ready for orthodontic treatment

What Dental Check-Ups Can Reveal

Gum Disease

If your gums are inflamed or infected, wearing aligners can make the condition worse. Aligners fit tightly over your teeth and gums, trapping bacteria. Treating gum issues early helps protect your gums throughout your Invisalign treatment.

Cavities

Cavities must be treated before starting Invisalign. Left untreated, they can worsen under aligners, which hold bacteria and food particles against your teeth. Filling cavities ahead of time helps avoid pain, delays, and damage.

Existing Dental Work

Crowns, bridges, and large fillings may interfere with the fit of aligners. Your dentist will check whether your dental work is compatible with Invisalign and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

How Dental Issues Can Delay Invisalign

Dental problems can delay your start date, add costs, and lead to extra visits. Here are a few common issues and how they can affect your treatment timeline.

By addressing these issues first, you reduce the chance of interruptions once Invisalign begins.

What Happens During a Pre-Invisalign Check-Up

• Visual Exam: Your dentist checks for signs of decay, inflammation, or gum problems.
• X-rays: These help detect hidden issues between teeth, near the roots, or under the gums.
• Gum Probing: A small tool checks the depth of gum pockets, which can signal gum disease.
• Oral Hygiene Review: Your dentist will assess your brushing and flossing habits and offer tips for improvement.
• Dental History Revie:w Previous dental work and any past orthodontic treatments are reviewed to ensure they won’t interfere with aligners.

Ongoing Check-Ups During Invisalign

Check-ups are important throughout your Invisalign treatment. Your dentist will:

• Monitor progress
• Make sure the aligners fit properly
• Catch any issues early

Appointments are usually scheduled every six to eight weeks based on your plan.

Why Regular Dental Visits Improve Invisalign Results

Regular visits help your aligners work as expected. They also:

• Prevent infections
• Keep treatment on schedule
• Support long-term oral health

Good dental care during Invisalign treatment is key to achieving the best outcome.

What to Do Before Starting Invisalign

Use this checklist to get ready:

• Schedule a dental exam and cleaning
• Treat any gum disease or cavities
• Get updated dental X-rays
• Share your dental history with your provider
• Ask questions about the Invisalign process

Ready to Start Invisalign?

A dental check-up is the best first step. It protects your smile and ensures that Invisalign works as planned. Schedule your exam with Stephen Forrest, DDS, at Des Moines Cosmetic Dentistry Center today to determine if you’re ready to begin!