Invisalign
Invisalign, as the name suggests, uses nearly invisible braces to straighten your teeth. The aligners are made from thermoplastic material uniquely developed from your treatment plan, created on an individual basis.
You are given a series of bespoke, custom made aligners to move your teeth in the sequence determined by your dentist. Each aligner
in this series works individually, making slight adjustments to tooth position. We sometimes choose to use attachments which are made from filling material. These bumps on your teeth help the aligners push the teeth into the correct position.
When the aligners are placed on the teeth, they cause the teeth to gradually shift from their current position. After approximately two weeks, you will begin using the next set of aligners, which will continue the teeth straightening process.
FAQs About Invisalign
What are the key differences between Invisalign and braces?
Invisalign consists of a series of trays that you can take on and off, whereas braces consist of brackets and wires attached to the teeth, which cannot be removed for the duration of treatment.
The fact that you can remove the Invisalign aligners (required for when you eat and drink) means that, unlike traditional braces, you don’t need to restrict your consumption of any of your favourite foods, which could cause traditional braces to break. You should brush your teeth after each meal and prior to re-inserting your aligners to maintain fresh breath and proper hygiene.
Aligners are most effective when worn for 20–22 hours per day and removed only for eating, brushing and flossing. If they are not worn, the teeth will not move. Braces are capable of more complex movements and are the superior treatment option for those cases requiring extractions and large movements for back teeth.
How much does Invisalign cost?
Invisalign starts at £2995. In most cases, Invisalign treatment is comparable to the cost of traditional braces. Every treatment is judged on an individual basis and is based on your specific needs. Factors taken into consideration are treatment goals, the difficulty of your case, how long you are in treatment and additional factors determined by your dentist or orthodontist.
Is Invisalign quicker than conventional braces?
No, Invisalign actually tends to be slower than traditional braces. Your dentist will want to see you usually about once every four to six weeks. The goal of these visits is to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned. Fixed braces tend to require more chair-side time.
How long (on average) does Invisalign take?
Invisalign can take anywhere between two months and two years before treatment is completed.
How painful is Invisalign?
Invisalign is not as painful as traditional braces as there is no rubbing of wires and brackets against the gums. Initially, you will
feel pressure, however, you soon get used to this and the pressure you feel when the teeth are moving is somewhat addictive especially when you see the results.
Are there any other advantages to Invisalign?
Invisalign is very subtle, so nobody may even notice you’re wearing them. They also help maintain excellent oral hygiene because you remove the aligners to brush and floss. Also, Invisalign allows you to view your virtual results and treatment plan before you start, so
you can see how your straightened teeth will look when your treatment is complete.
