Invisalign is a dental solution that makes it possible to straighten teeth and correct bite problems without the need for a conventional orthodontic brace. The Invisalign system uses a sequence of custom-designed, clear plastic aligners that sit over the top of the teeth. There is no need for wires, brackets and elastics and any of the compromises they require you to make, ensuring that you can carry on living life to the full throughout your orthodontic treatment.
We are delighted to be able to offer a comprehensive Invisalign service to our patients, enabling you to achieve the smile that you have always dreams of.
How does Invisalign work?
As we know, Invisalign uses a sequence of custom-designed aligners that cover the teeth much like a bite guard would. However, each aligner is slightly different, exerting gentle force onto the teeth to direct and guide teeth into their new and preferred position. The design of each aligner is determined by a highly sophisticated computer mapping program that is able to take images of your teeth in their natural position and determine how they will need to move to bring them into the best possible alignment. This can involve moving both the teeth and coaxing the jaw into an improved position too.
The Invisalign technology then takes the pattern of movement needed and converts it into a series of steps that your teeth will need to take. Each aligner that is created represents a specific step in the process. On average, an Invisalign patient wears an aligner for up to 4 weeks before changing to the next in the series. The program is delivered with the aligners in order so that you know which needs to be worn next each time. It is essential that they are worn in the correct order and for the allotted time frame for the treatment to be successful. In addition to this, you must commit to wearing your aligners for at least 22 hours each day. This means that they can only be removed for eating and cleaning and must be placed back over your teeth at all times, including while you sleep.
Exactly how long your Invisalign program will last will depend on your individual circumstances. However, most patients find that their teeth and bite are fully corrected within two years of starting the treatment.
What are the benefits of Invisalign?
Orthodontic braces have long been the only solution for patients requiring orthodontic treatment. However, while successful, their design is not ideal and causes patients a variety of problems, from discomfort and the need to attend regular dental appointments to being unable to eat the foods that they enjoy. Patients who wear braces also find it very difficult to keep their teeth clean and are at greater risk of dental decay. Invisalign eliminates the vast majority of issues associated with conventional braces.
If you choose Invisalign, some of the benefits that you can expect include the following:
An invisible solution
Unlike braces, which are made from metal brackets and wires, Invisalign aligners are made from transparent plastic and are virtually invisible once in place over your teeth.
No compromises on what you can eat
When you have regular braces, there is a whole list of foods that you can no longer eat including items that are particularly sticky, hard or chewy. This can be limiting and frustrating. With Invisalign, you can take your aligners out for eating meaning there are no compromises that you need to make on the foods that you enjoy.
Easier to clean
As you can imagine, negotiating brackets, wires and elastics when brushing teeth covered by braces can be very difficult and it can be almost impossible to clean every part of your teeth to the best standard. With Invisalign aligners, you can just remove them and brush and floss your underlying teeth as you would usually. You can and should brush your aligners too, which you can do using a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste.
More comfortable to wear
Patients who have tried both braces and Invisalign aligners agree that Invisalign is a far more comfortable solution. The plastic aligners are fairly soft and sit snugly over your teeth. There are no sharp wires or annoying elastics to cause you discomfort.
Predictable results
Using Invisalign technology, it is possible for us to create an illustration of what you can expect your teeth to look like at the end of your treatment program.