Have you dreamed of perfectly straight teeth but don’t want the hassle or look of wearing metal braces for three years? Well, you’re in luck! At 92 Dental, we provide the popular orthodontic treatment, Invisalign, that uses clear, removable plastic aligners to gently move your teeth into the desired position. Unlike traditional braces, which use metal wires and brackets, Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible, making them a favoured choice for adults who wish to straighten their teeth without the visible signs of orthodontics. Ticking all your boxes? Here’s a straightforward guide to everything you need to know about Invisalign:
1) How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign treatment uses a clear and comfortable medical-grade plastic called SmartTrack to create each set of aligners. These aligners are custom-made for each patient based on a series of x-rays, photos and impressions. We will also create a bespoke treatment plan that outlines the movements of your teeth during treatment.
Once we’ve finalised your treatment plan, we’ll send this to the Invisalign technicians, who will create your aligners using advanced 3D printing technology. You must wear each set of Invisalign aligners for 22 hours a day for about two weeks before replacing them for the next set in the series. Each subsequent set of aligners will apply gentle pressure to your teeth, gradually moving them into the desired position.
2) What Are the Benefits of Invisalign?
As we’ve said, one of the main benefits of Invisalign is that these aligners are virtually invisible. This makes them popular for adults who wish to straighten their teeth but are self-conscious or hesitant about whether traditional braces will suit them. Invisalign aligners are also more aesthetic for older teenagers requiring orthodontic treatment.
Furthermore, Invisalign aligners are removable, which means you can eat and drink whatever you enjoy while in treatment. Simply remove the aligners whenever you wish to eat, drink, or brush your teeth, and then reinsert them when you’re done. The only thing to remember with Invisalign is to brush your teeth and aligners before reinserting to ensure no nasty bacteria transfers onto your teeth.
Additionally, Invisalign aligners are more comfortable than traditional braces. The smooth plastic is gentle on your gums and cheeks, and there are no wires or brackets to irritate your mouth. Invisalign is a gentle treatment which shouldn’t cause any pain or irritation. At most, you may experience minor discomfort when switching to a new set of aligners as your teeth adjust to their new position. This is completely normal and should resolve within a few days.
3) Is Invisalign Right for You?
Invisalign is an excellent option for adults and older teenagers with mild to moderate orthodontic problems. We can rectify concerns such as crowding, gaps between teeth, and misalignment, as well as these bite issues:
- Overbite: When the top teeth overlap the bottom teeth too much.
- Underbite: When the bottom teeth protrude too far forward.
- Crossbite: When the upper and lower teeth don’t meet correctly.
- Open Bite: When the upper and lower front teeth have a gap between them, even when the mouth is closed.
It’s important to note that Invisalign is not suitable for everyone. For instance, if you have severe orthodontic issues or a particularly complex bite, traditional braces are typically a more effective solution. The best way to determine if Invisalign is right for you is to speak with our Consultant Orthodontist, Gavin Mack.
4) How Long Does Treatment With Invisalign Take?
The duration of Invisalign treatment varies from patient to patient. On average, treatment usually takes about 12-18 months. However, some patients may be finished in as little as six months, while others may take longer. The time it takes to complete treatment depends on the severity of your orthodontic concerns and how well you follow the treatment plan.
5) How Much Does Invisalign Cost?
The cost of Invisalign varies, depending on your case and the duration of treatment.
At 92 Dental, the price for Invisalign starts at £2100, which includes the aligners, all necessary appointments, and a set of retainers to help maintain your new smile. View our dental fee guide here.
6) What Is the Process for Starting Invisalign Treatment?
To start Invisalign, you’ll need to schedule a consultation with our Consultant Orthodontist, Gavin Mack, who specialises in providing Invisalign treatment.
During your consultation, Gavin will examine your teeth and discuss your treatment goals. He will also take an impression of your teeth and a series of digital scans with the patented ClinCheck software to create a treatment plan and generate a series of aligners. At this time, Gavin can show you a “before and after” digital prediction of your treatment results. You can also view a run-through of the changes your teeth will encounter during each treatment stage.
Once your treatment plan is finalised and sent to the lab, you’ll receive your first set of aligners. You must wear these aligners for two weeks before switching to the next ones in the series. You’ll also need to visit us every four to six weeks to ensure that the treatment is progressing as planned.
7) How to Maintain Your Invisalign Aligners?
For your Invisalign treatment to be successful, you must follow our treatment plan and take care of your aligners properly. Here are some tips for maintaining your aligners to ensure the best results possible:
- Keep your aligners clean by brushing them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive cleaner, such as clear antibacterial soap. You can also rinse them with lukewarm water throughout the day. Don’t forget; it’s essential to thoroughly clean your aligners before reinserting them into your mouth after removal.
- Deep clean your aligners each week with the Invisalign Cleaning Crystals.
- Store your aligners in the case provided when you’re not wearing them. This will keep them clean and prevent them from getting lost or damaged.
- Wear your aligners for at least 22 hours per day. The longer you wear your aligners, the faster your treatment will progress.
- Remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water.
- Don’t eat food while wearing your aligners, as the exerted force can break the plastic.
- Exposing your aligners to heat can cause them to warp. For this reason, you should always remove your aligners before enjoying hot drinks, and don’t wash them under burning hot water.
By following these tips and attending all of your scheduled appointments, you can ensure that your Invisalign treatment is a success. Once completed, it’s vital to wear your retainers daily for at least six months to ensure your teeth retain their new position.
Final Thoughts:
Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment that uses clear, plastic aligners to straighten teeth. It’s an excellent option for adults and older teenagers with mild to moderate orthodontic problems, offering several benefits over traditional braces, including comfort, convenience, and aesthetics. While treatment with Invisalign can take anywhere from six months to two years, the final result is a beautifully straight smile. If Invisalign is your ideal solution, book a free consultation with us today to discuss your treatment options.
