Invisalign is the invisible way to straighten teeth using a series of custom-made, nearly undetectable aligners. Whether your teeth are crowded or spaced you’ll have a new reason to smile!
Because there are no metal wires and brackets, Invisalign is comfortable. Because it is removable, eating, brushing and flossing are no problem. You can still enjoy your favourite foods without holding back.
After your initial examination your orthodontist will assess whether Invisalign treatment is right for you. They will write a treatment plan and will need to see you again to take an impression of your teeth. These are then submitted to Invisalign. In approximately 3 weeks time the orthodontist will be able to check the Invisalign treatment plan online. Once they have accepted this treatment plan it will take approximately 6-8 weeks for the aligners to be received.
Often with Invisalign treatment there is a requirement to ‘recontour’ some of your teeth. This is generally carried out at specific stages during your treatment and is prescribed in the original treatment plan by the manufacturers of Invisalign after assessing your pre-treatment records. You will also often need to have small dimples of tooth-coloured plastic bonded to the teeth to aid retention of the aligner and to help with tooth movement. These are discreet and will be removed at that end of treatment.
Often with Invisalign treatment, fixed braces may be required to achieve final detailing of the bite. When the Invisalign treatment and/or fixed brace work has been completed there is a commitment to wearing retainers to maintain the treatment result. These often involve either fixed retainers placed behind the teeth or removable retainers which are worn at night until stability has been achieved.
Invisalign FAQ’s
Q. How does Invisalign work?
A. Using the latest advances in 3-D computer technology, Invisalign translates your orthodontist’s instructions into a series of nearly undetectable aligners. You wear each set of aligners for about two weeks, moving your teeth gradually week by week, millimetre by millimetre until you’ve achieved the desired result.
Q. Is Invisalign effective?
A. Thousands of doctors around the world are treating patients with Invisalign. It works for a wide range of people whose teeth are too crowded or have spaces between them.
Q. How often will I have to wear my aligners?
A. Invisalign only works while you’re wearing the aligners. It’s recommended that you wear your aligners full-time, day and night for at least 22 hours, except to eat, brush and floss your teeth – or as directed by your orthodontist.
Q. How long does Invisalign take?
A. The duration of treatment depends on the severity of your case, which determines the number of aligners you need. However, the average is about 14 months, but only your orthodontist can determine the length of your treatment.
Q. How much does Invisalign cost?
A. As with traditional braces, the cost will be based on the complexity of your case and the length of treatment. Invisalign costs only slightly more than braces.
Q. How do you keep it clean?
A. Clean your aligners with your toothbrush. Gel toothpaste is OK but not normal toothpaste as this could scratch the surface. Do not use hot or boiling water as this could distort the aligner.
You can also visit the Invisalign website at www.invisalign.com for further information.
Using Modern Materials- Features and Benefits
• Computer-generated treatment plan (using the latest CAD technology)
• Precision impression using polysilicon (for greater accuracy for fit and comfort of the aligners)
• Custom-made computer-generated clear polycarbonate aligners (less obvious as they are virtually invisible)
• Internet-based treatment sequencing which is preapproved by your orthodontist prior to the aligners being constructed (treatment directed by your orthodontist)
• Greater patient confidence due to virtual invisibility & comfort
• Patient is more in control of the treatment
• Great for those with allergies such as sensitivity to metals
• No time loss between the fitting of each new aligner as all sets of aligners are despatched together, with several sets during the full course of treatment