If you’re using Invisalign to straighten your teeth, you probably already know how the process works. You use a series of clear aligners that gradually shift your teeth into their ideal positions. It’s discreet and convenient, making it ideal for many patients.
But what happens if your teeth don’t move quite as we expected when you decide to try Invisalign?
That’s where Invisalign refinements come in.
What are refinements, why are they sometimes necessary, and what can you expect if your treatment plan includes them?
What Exactly Are Invisalign Refinements?
Think of refinements as a set of bonus aligners. After you complete your original series of trays, we reassess your progress to see if your teeth have moved exactly as planned. If they haven’t, don’t worry. It’s pretty standard to need a few extra trays to fine-tune your results.
Sometimes, a single tooth can be just a little stubborn. Perhaps one molar didn’t rotate fully, or your front teeth aren’t aligning quite the way we want. Refinements are customized to address those final details and help you get the outcome we both envisioned at the start of your treatment.
Why Do Some People Need Refinements?
There are several reasons why someone might need refinements during their Invisalign journey. It doesn’t necessarily mean something went wrong. It just means your teeth are unique, just like you. Sometimes, they don’t follow the digital treatment plan to the millimetre.
Here are the most common situations that lead to refinements:
- Standard Invisalign adjustments didn’t go as planned: Even with the best technology and planning, teeth don’t always cooperate perfectly. Some may move faster, slower, or resist movement altogether.
- Attachment issues: Invisalign attachments (those small, tooth-colored “bumps” we bond to your teeth) help certain teeth shift more efficiently. It could throw things off if one falls off or doesn’t work as expected.
- Inconsistent wear: if you don’t wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours daily, refinements are more likely. Even minor lapses can impact your progress and necessitate adjustments to your treatment plan.
- Changes in your goals: Some patients decide they want additional changes after seeing the results.
How Does the Refinement Process Work?
Once you near the end of your planned set of aligners, we’ll schedule a check-in to evaluate your progress. This visit includes a follow-up scan or impressions to see how your teeth compare to the original treatment plan.
If everything looks perfect, great. You’ll move into retainers. But if we notice some room for improvement, we’ll order refinement trays.
Here’s what typically happens:
- We take updated images of your teeth using an intraoral scanner.
- We map out where your teeth still need to align and how many more aligners you’ll need to achieve your goal.
- Once the new set is made, you’ll start wearing them just like you did before, changing trays every week or two, depending on your case.
We’ll continue to track your progress to ensure your teeth are now following the new plan.
Are Refinements Normal?
Yes.
Needing refinements doesn’t mean your treatment has failed or that something is wrong. It’s part of the process for many patients, especially if your case was more complex to begin with. You’ll likely hear about the common need for refinements during your initial consultation. It’s helpful to know that treatment extensions are common, so you’re not caught off guard at the end of treatment, thinking you’re finished when your smile is still being perfected.
Refinements enable us to be more precise and ensure every tooth is in the correct position before we’re done.
Even the most advanced aligner system in the world can’t predict how every person’s teeth will respond. That’s why it’s essential to work with a dentist who closely monitors your progress and makes adjustments as needed.
Tips for Minimizing Your Need for Refinements
Refinements are common, but there are steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of needing them. For instance:
- Wear your aligners exactly as directed
- Keep attachments clean and intact
- Adhere to your scheduled check-ins with your dentist
- Store your trays safely and avoid heat or damage that can warp them
For many people, refinements are just one more tool we use to achieve the best possible smile. If you think Invisalign might be right for you, we can help. Call now to book a consultation.
