August is here, and with it comes the hustle and bustle of back-to-school preparation. If straightening smiles has been on your family’s radar, you’re likely wondering whether it’s still possible to schedule an Invisalign® consultation and begin treatment before the school year kicks into high gear.
The good news? With the best dentist in Bethesda, you can access a streamlined process that fits seamlessly into even the busiest of schedules. Let’s explore what happens during an Invisalign consultation at Bethesda Dental Associates, how much time it takes, and why starting treatment now can set your child—or you—on the path to a more confident smile this school year.
What Happens During an Invisalign Consultation?
1. Initial Exam and Chat
Your consultation begins with a discussion about your (or your child’s) orthodontic goals:
- Fix spacing issues?
- Address crowding?
- Correct a bite misalignment?
- Deal with jaw problems?
This is an opportunity to share any concerns. Ask any questions you may have about Invisalign, preparation, or oral health.
2. Teeth Scanning and Digital Imaging
Next, we’ll use advanced technology to create a precise model of your teeth. At our practice, we rely on the cutting-edge iTero™ scanner, which means no messy impressions or discomfort. These scans allow us to craft a detailed 3D image of your smile, so you can see how Invisalign can transform it over time.
3. Customized Treatment Plan
Using the scans, we’ll create a customized treatment plan. This plan outlines all the details you’ll need to know:
- How many aligners will be required
- How often you’ll receive new trays
- How long your treatment will take
We’ll share this information with you, so you know exactly what to expect.
4. Your Timeline and Q&A
Finally, you’ll receive a clear timeline based on your unique dental needs. You’ll also once again have the chance to ask questions, discuss costs, chat about aligner maintenance, and decide if Invisalign is the right choice for you or your child. We’re always here to dispel any concerns and help you make the most informed decision.
Despite how much we pack into your appointment, this entire process typically only takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Parents often appreciate how efficient this visit is, as it allows everyone to get back to their back-to-school plans without skipping a beat. It’s why we think we’re among the best dentists in Bethesda.
How Soon Can Treatment Start After the Invisalign Consultation?
One of the many benefits of choosing Invisalign is the speed at which treatment can begin. Once your treatment plan is finalized and you approve it, Invisalign will custom-fabricate your aligners. This process generally takes around two to three weeks.
Once the aligners are ready, you’ll return to the office to pick them up, where our team will guide you through how to wear and care for them. After that, you or your child will be on the way to a straighter smile!
The entire process—consultation, aligner production, and initial fitting—can be completed in as little as three to four weeks. This makes Invisalign an excellent option for families looking to begin treatment before the school year ramp-up.
Why See the Best Dentist in Bethesda When School Starts?
Getting an Invisalign consultation in late summer or early fall comes with several advantages, especially for students experiencing the excitement (and sometimes stress) of heading back to school. Here’s why starting now is a smart move:
1. A Smooth Adjustment Period
Aligners are comfortable and easy to wear, but like with any orthodontic treatment, there’s a brief adjustment period. Starting Invisalign before school begins ensures that your child has time to get used to wearing and removing their aligners, speaking clearly with them in, and maintaining a cleaning routine, all without the added pressure of a busy class schedule.
2. Achieve Results During the School Year
Because Invisalign aligners are replaced every one to two weeks, you’ll begin to notice small improvements in just a matter of months. By starting now, you or your child could see visible progress in teeth alignment even before the end of the first semester. It’s a confidence boost to carry through the year.
3. Discreet Treatment for Teens
Traditional braces are effective but often come with the added stigma of a “metal mouth” that some teens are eager to avoid. Invisalign aligners are clear, nearly invisible trays, making them a popular choice for self-conscious students.
4. Set a Positive Routine from Day One
Starting orthodontic treatment alongside other fresh-start routines—like new classes or extracurricular activities—can help kids maintain excellent oral care habits while building structure into their day.
5. Skip the Holiday Rush
By beginning Invisalign treatment now, you’ll avoid the inevitable surge in dental appointments later in the fall and winter. Plus, why wait until the holidays to make a life-changing improvement when you can start smiling with confidence now?
Book with the Best Dentist in Bethesda
With classes starting, now is the perfect time to take the first step toward a straighter smile. Booking an Invisalign consultation today means you’ll have plenty of time to complete the process and start treatment before the school year fully kicks in.
At Bethesda Dental Associates, we make it easy to prioritize your family’s dental health, even during the busiest seasons. Contact us today to schedule your consultation for a new smile for the new year.
