Considering Invisalign in Ann Arbor? Choosing to straighten your teeth is more than just a cosmetic decision—it’s an investment in your health, confidence, and quality of life. At Embrace Orthodontics, we combine advanced orthodontic technology with personalized care to make your Invisalign journey predictable, comfortable, and even exciting. From your very first consultation to the day you reveal your new smile, our team is here to guide you through every step of the process.
Below, we’ve created a detailed walkthrough so you’ll know exactly what to expect when you begin Invisalign treatment with us.
Step 1: Your Online Consultation – Visualizing Your Future Smile
Your Invisalign experience begins with a free, no-obligation consultation at our Ann Arbor office. Unlike the old days of messy impressions and guesswork, we use the iTero digital scanner—a state-of-the-art tool that captures an accurate 3D image of your teeth in just minutes.
This scan is completely painless, and it allows us to design a customized treatment plan that fits your unique needs. Using advanced software called ClinCheck, we can even show you a digital preview of your future smile before treatment begins. Many patients say this moment is a huge motivator—it’s the first time they can actually see what their teeth will look like after Invisalign.
Step 2: Receiving Your Custom Aligners
Once your clear aligners are ready, you’ll return to our office to pick them up and try them on for the very first time. Each aligner is made just for you, designed to fit snugly and comfortably over your teeth.
You’ll typically wear your aligners for 20–22 hours per day, removing them only to eat, drink anything other than water, and brush or floss your teeth. Every one to two weeks, you’ll switch to the next set of aligners in the series. Each set gently shifts your teeth, moving them millimeter by millimeter into the right position.
The best part? Most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them. The clear, slim design of Invisalign aligners makes them virtually invisible—so you can smile with confidence throughout treatment.
Step 3: Your Home Routine and Regular Check-Ins
One of the biggest advantages of Invisalign is its convenience. The majority of your progress happens at home, on your own schedule. You’ll change aligners as directed and quickly adapt to your new routine.
To keep you on track, we’ll schedule check-ins every 6–8 weeks at our Ann Arbor office. These visits are quick and stress-free. We’ll review your progress, make any necessary adjustments, and provide your next set of aligners.
These regular appointments ensure everything is going smoothly, while still giving you the freedom and flexibility that traditional braces can’t match.
Step 4: Completing the Active Treatment Phase
The length of Invisalign treatment varies depending on your needs, but for most patients, the active phase lasts between 12 and 18 months. Some cases may finish sooner, while others may take a bit longer.
During this time, you’ll notice your teeth gradually straightening, your bite improving, and your smile becoming more balanced. Because Invisalign aligners are smooth and removable, you’ll also avoid many of the common inconveniences of traditional braces, such as mouth irritation or food restrictions.
By the end of this phase, you’ll be ready to show off the smile you’ve been working toward!
Step 5: Protecting Your Smile with Retainers
Finishing Invisalign doesn’t mean your journey is over. To keep your teeth in their beautifully aligned positions, you’ll need to wear a retainer.
At Embrace Orthodontics, we’ll fit you with a custom retainer designed for comfort and durability. You may receive a clear removable retainer or a fixed retainer bonded behind your teeth. Either way, wearing your retainer as instructed is essential to protecting your investment and maintaining your results for life.
Think of your retainer as the final step that locks in your progress. By following this step faithfully, you ensure that your new smile stays straight, healthy, and radiant for years to come.
Why Choose Invisalign at Embrace Orthodontics in Ann Arbor?
There are many options when it comes to orthodontic care, but here’s why patients throughout Ann Arbor trust our orthodontist team with their smiles:
- Personalized Treatment: Every Invisalign plan is tailored to your exact needs and lifestyle.
- Advanced Technology: Our iTero scanner and ClinCheck software provide precision and predictability.
- Comfort and Convenience: Removable aligners mean no food restrictions, no painful wire adjustments, and no interference with daily life.
- Discreet Appearance: Invisalign aligners are clear and nearly invisible, letting you smile with confidence at work, school, or social events.
- Experienced Team: Our orthodontists have years of expertise guiding patients through successful Invisalign journeys.
When you choose Embrace Orthodontics, you’re not just choosing straighter teeth—you’re choosing a trusted orthodontist in Ann Arbor dedicated to making your Invisalign experience stress-free and rewarding.
Common Questions About Invisalign
Is Invisalign painful?
Most patients feel mild pressure or tightness when starting a new aligner, but this is temporary and a sign that the treatment is working. Invisalign is generally more comfortable than traditional braces.
Can I eat whatever I want during Invisalign treatment?
Yes! Since you remove your aligners before meals, you can enjoy all your favorite foods. Just remember to brush before putting them back in.
How long will I need to wear my aligners each day?
For best results, aligners should be worn 20–22 hours daily. Skipping wear time can delay progress.
Will Invisalign work for complex orthodontic issues?
Invisalign can treat a wide range of cases—from mild crowding to more complex bite issues. During your consultation, we’ll let you know if it’s the right option for you.
Your Orthodontic Partner in Ann Arbor
We know starting orthodontic treatment can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate the process alone. At Embrace Orthodontics, our mission is to make your Invisalign experience clear, empowering, and easy to manage.
From your first consultation to the moment you see your new smile in the mirror, we’ll be by your side with answers, encouragement, and support.