The Truth About Invisalign Refinements: Do You Need Them?
If you’re thinking about getting Invisalign treatment, you may have come across the term “refinements” during your research. In this article, we will explore the truth about Invisalign refinements – what they are, when they are necessary, and what you can expect if you require them.
What Are Invisalign Refinements?
Invisalign refinements are additional aligners that are used to fine-tune your treatment and make further adjustments to your teeth. They are typically required when the initial treatment plan doesn’t achieve the desired results or if new dental issues arise during the course of treatment.
When Are Invisalign Refinements Needed?
There are several reasons why Invisalign refinements may be necessary. These include:
- Teeth movement: Sometimes, the teeth may not move as predicted or expected during the initial treatment phase. Invisalign refinements allow your dentist to address any areas that need additional correction.
- New dental concerns: It is not uncommon for new dental issues to arise during Invisalign treatment. These can include teeth shifting due to natural growth or other oral health concerns. In such cases, refinements help tackle these new problems.
- Complicated cases: In some complex orthodontic cases, refinements are often needed to ensure precise tooth movements and achieve optimal results. Your dentist will assess your case and determine whether refinements are necessary.
It’s worth noting that not every Invisalign patient will require refinements. Your progress will be evaluated regularly by your dentist, who will decide if refinements are necessary to enhance your treatment.
What to Expect If You Need Invisalign Refinements
If your dentist determines that refinements are needed for your Invisalign treatment, here is what you can expect:
- New impressions or scans: Your dentist will take new impressions or scans of your teeth to create the refinements. This allows them to have an accurate representation of your current tooth position.
- New aligners: Based on the new impressions, a new set of aligners will be custom-made for you. These aligners will specifically target the areas that need further adjustment.
- Wearing time: You will need to wear the refinements for the recommended amount of time each day, just like with your initial treatment. This ensures that your teeth gradually move into their desired positions.
- Follow-up appointments: Your progress will be monitored through follow-up appointments, allowing your dentist to make any necessary modifications along the way.
It’s essential to follow your dentist’s instructions and wear your aligners as directed to achieve the best possible results with refinements. Consistency is key!
Why Choose Wimpole Street Dental Clinic for Invisalign Treatment?
At Wimpole Street Dental Clinic in London, we are dedicated to providing high-quality Invisalign treatment. Our experienced professionals will guide you through the process, ensuring that refinements or any other necessary adjustments are made to help you achieve your desired smile.
According to the British Orthodontic Society, around 1 in 5 orthodontic patients in the UK choose Invisalign as their treatment option. With a success rate of 92% in achieving desired tooth movements (source: British Dental Journal), it’s no wonder why Invisalign is a popular choice for many.
If you’re considering Invisalign treatment or have questions about refinements, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with the experts at Wimpole Street Dental Clinic. Contact us today to learn more about how Invisalign can transform your smile. Your journey to a straighter smile starts here.
ABOUT THIS ARTICLE
Created: 14/8/23
Clinically reviewed by: Prof Dr Christian Mehl
Written by: Dr Sanjana Sudarshan

About the author:
Sanjana, an accomplished Orthodontist, graduated with Honours from King’s College and excels in providing tailored treatments using diverse techniques. With a broad dental background, she manages complex conditions holistically. A passionate mentor, conference presenter, and charitable ambassador, she continuously supports the dental community.
When did we last update this page?
Our expert team continually update and research the latest news and techniques in dentistry, as such we regularly update our pages and have these clinically reviewed.
Current Version
August 14th 2023
- Added “when did we last update this page”
Written by: Prof Dr Christian Mehl
Medically reviewed by: Dr Raul Costa