September 10, 2024

What happens after Invisalign treatment?

It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for. If your final Invisalign® appointment is on the calendar, we’re so excited for you!

This is an exciting milestone that marks the beginning of a new chapter for your smile and your confidence—for the rest of your life!

As you transition from active treatment to maintenance, you may be wondering what happens next. Your team at Rogers & Andrews Orthodontics in Augusta and Grovetown is here to help you prepare.

Here’s your complete guide to finishing Invisalign treatment. We’ll discuss:

  • The role of retainers after Invisalign
  • How to care for your teeth moving forward
  • Fun ways to celebrate your new smile!

What to Expect After Invisalign

Finishing your last set of Invisalign aligners is a BIG achievement, but it’s not the end of your orthodontic journey. Just like your dental health, maintaining your beautiful new dental alignment is a lifetime commitment!

After active treatment, you’ll enter the maintenance phase—where your retainer is the star of the show.

Retainers provide the support your teeth need to stabilize in their new positions. This is how we prevent your teeth from shifting back to where they were when you first started your Invisalign journey!

All-Things-Retainers (After Invisalign)

During your final appointment, we’ll take one last digital impression of your Invisalign-free smile to have your custom retainer designed and printed.

We offer custom Vivera™ Invisalign retainers that are similar to clear aligners. They’re 30% stronger and 2x more durable than other clear retainers!

Dr. Andrews will explain in detail how to wear and care for your retainer. Once you receive it, you’ll pop it in place and keep that smile in pristine condition.

How long will I wear my retainer after Invisalign?

To help your teeth stabilize, it’s best to wear your retainer every night. Consistency is key, and wearing your retainer as instructed is essential for maintaining your results and keeping your smile in its ideal condition.

What happens after my last Invisalign tray?

After your final Invisalign appointment, you simply take out your last Invisalign trays and replace them with your new retainers. We’ll schedule a follow-up visit in a few weeks to examine your beautiful new smile, answer any questions, and discuss retainer wear moving forward.

Can I use my last Invisalign tray as a retainer?  

Please keep your last few sets of aligners, but do not wear them as retainers. Aligners are designed for short-term wear and will weaken if over-worn. Since you’ve already gotten the designated wear out of your last set, it won’t provide enough support to replace a durable retainer designed for long-term wear.

Fun Things to Do When You Finish Invisalign

How should you celebrate your newfound confidence? Here are a few ideas!

  • Capture the moment – and capture it again!: There’s no better way to reward yourself for all of the hard work you put into treatment than by taking a bunch of selfies or planning a photoshoot! That stunning smile deserves to be shared. Share your experience on social media showing off your new smile – and be sure to tag us!
  • Treat yourself to professional teeth whitening: If you’ve whitened your teeth during your Invisalign treatment, you’re already familiar with the dazzling results. If not, now is a great time to treat yourself and ensure that your smile is camera-ready!
  • Celebrate with friends & family: Your friends and family will be so happy for you and your new smile! Share the joy with those who supported you throughout your orthodontic journey. Have a BBQ, brunch, party or vacation and smile ‘til your cheeks hurt.

Say “hello” to a life of confident smiles!

Whether you just finished active Invisalign treatment, are preparing for your final appointment, or are simply curious about what happens when Invisalign treatment ends, we hope you have some answers now. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

If you haven’t begun your journey yet, it’s time to get started. Dr. Andrews is your trusted family orthodontist. He’s achieved the highest distinction in Invisalign possible, as a Blue Diamond Plus Invisalign provider, and provides Invisalign for kids, Invisalign for teens and Invisalign for adults

Book your complimentary consultation at one of our orthodontist offices in Augusta or Grovetown!