Clear aligners like Invisalign have come a long way in the past few years. These invisible braces used to be limited to mild cases but now they can be used to treat a variety of patients. Getting fitted for Invisalign also used to be an uncomfortable process, but now orthodontists can easily take molds and even fit aligners virtually. All of these technological advances benefit patients and allow more people to have the smile they want.
Learn more about the use of virtual treatment for Invisalign and how orthodontic specialists like Dr. Bill Layman use it to help patients.
No More Goopy Impressions
One of the hardest parts of starting an Invisalign treatment used to be impression-taking. During this time, orthodontists would use a special slimy solution to form molds of your mouth. These would then be used to create aligners that fit your teeth. The goo was not unlike having silly-putty in your mouth and it often left patients gagging. Fortunately, the use of this goo is over.
With virtual treatment, patients can take clear photos of their teeth, including their back molars during a teledentistry consultation. With these photos Dr. Layman is able to customize a personalized treatment plan specific to you. Then, it’s as simple as coming in to the office for a 3D digital non-radiation scan to be fitted for your aligners.
Dr. Layman hasn’t used putty for clear aligners in more than six years. Digital impressions provide a better experience for patients and have become the new standard of care.
Orthodontic Treatment is More Accessible
Virtual appointments are more accessible to patients. One of the main things that hold people back from straightening their teeth is the amount of time involved. Traditionally, if you needed to replace your aligners every two weeks with a new set, then you would have to make an appointment with an orthodontist. This meant traveling to the office during normal business hours, which often involved missing work or school.
With virtual treatment, almost anyone can get the orthodontic care they need. Instead of driving to the office, you can upload photos of your progress for Dr. Layman to review. You can do this on your own time and won’t miss work. Dr. Layman will still be able to monitor the progression of your treatment without compromising the quality of your care and can order new aligners as needed.
Not only can you save time by working with an orthodontist virtually, but you also aren’t limited to nearby dental experts. You can work with an orthodontist who has an office across town – or even across the country.
Don’t Wait Until Your Next Appointment To Ask Questions
Another benefit of virtual treatment is that you don’t have to wait until your next scheduled appointment if you have any questions or concerns. Your Invisalign shouldn’t be painful or uncomfortable and you shouldn’t keep wearing an aligner if it’s broken. Some patients used to keep wearing them until their next orthodontist visit. Not any more.
With virtual care, you can log into the patient portal and submit a question to Dr. Layman. He may ask for details or photos of your aligners. By keeping this clear channel of communication open, you can get the care you need – even if your next appointment isn’t for another few weeks. This creates a better overall patient experience.
Start Your Journey Today
If you have a busy schedule or don’t live near an orthodontist, you can still get the straight teeth and beautiful smile you desire. Skip the goopy impressions and opt for virtual treatment instead. Start with a free smile exam by Dr. Bill Layman and the team at Straighten Up Orthodontics to learn how you can use clear aligners to create straighter, healthier teeth.
