If you are looking to improve your smile but don’t want to sacrifice the time, pain and effort of metal braces, Invisalign® may be the perfect solution for you. Invisalign provides noticeable results to your smile without encroaching on your current lifestyle.
What is Invisalign®?
Invisalign is an alternative to clear or metal braces. Invisalign is available for all ages to treat various smile-related issues. The treatment entails plastic alignment trays that gently move the teeth into the desired position. Invisalign is just as effective as standard braces, and has created more than 5 million dream smiles across the globe.
How does Invisalign® work?
Following an initial consultation and creation of a digital treatment plan using Clincheck® software, you will receive your first Invisalign aligners. Invisalign aligners work similarly to traditional braces, in that they gradually change the position of your teeth. But instead of tightening wires, you rotate your pre-designed invisible aligners on two-week basis. Some patients will require additional SmartForce® attachments which are small “buttons” that attach to your teeth to provide the aligners with a better hold. Your dentist will remove these attachments at the end of your treatment. Your dentist will also schedule follow up appointments every three weeks to monitor your progress.
If you are curious about how Invisalign can improve your smile, take a look at a slideshow of digitalised before and after photos of common problems like overcrowding or gaps between teeth.
How long does Invisalign® take?
One of the most frequently asked questions our practice receives is “How long does Invisalign take?” The honest answer is it varies, but it’s usually shorter than the treatment time for standard braces which can last up to 24 months. Most Invisalign treatment plans are completed in 12 months or less. With Invisalign, specific teeth are targeted and moved, while straight teeth stay in their original position. With standard braces each tooth will move, even straight ones, before falling into the correct place. This results in more extended treatment periods.
The Benefits of Invisalign®
- (Almost) Invisible
Friends and family will not even notice you have Invisalign until they come up close. Invisalign aligners are not visible in photos or videos either, so don’t worry about showing off your smile.
- No restrictions
After you start with your Invisalign plan, you don’t need to make the significant lifestyle changes that usually come with metal braces. No foods or activities are off limits! You can also continue to brush and floss your teeth like normal, which reduces the risk of breaking your aligners as well as the accumulation of plaque.
Invisalign aligners are made of a flexible plastic material called SmartTrack®, which is less prone to breakage compared to wires. This also means you won’t have any unexpected visits to the practice due to a broken wire or bracket.
- Less pain
Teeth alignment procedures and methods are infamous for causing discomfort. But, with Invisalign, you can expect much less pain than with other alternatives. Because the Invisalign aligners are only moving your teeth gradually, you should only feel a slight pressure that will disappear within a few days.
Invisalign® aligners are designed specifically for your mouth, so there shouldn’t be any sharp plastic poking or prodding your gums.
- More freedom
Unlike standard braces, you can remove your Invisalign aligners as necessary, like when eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth. But, keep in mind that in order to achieve the best results, you should be wearing your aligners between 20 and 22 hours per day.
Invisalign aligners are created to fit snugly around your teeth – they won’t come out unless you want them to. You can play sports, talk and sleep without any restrictions or worries.
- Clear expectations
Your Invisalign treatment is created with Clincheck® software which maps out the entire process before it even begins. This allows both you and your dentist to clearly visualise which changes will happen and when.
Things to consider
Even though you may forget you are wearing your aligners, you still need to be conscious about taking care of them. Just like you need to brush your teeth every day, give your aligners a quick clean as well. You can either use the Invisalign Cleaning System or brush the aligners with some toothpaste and rinse with lukewarm water. Never use hot water as this could permanently warp your aligners. In order to avoid staining and bacteria growth, always brush your teeth before placing your aligners back into your mouth.
The cost of Invisalign varies depending on multiple factors, such as the things to correct and whether you are strict enough with your regimen. However, the price is generally not that much higher than traditional braces, and payment plans are always an option.
After you have finished your Invisalign treatment, you will have to follow up by wearing a retainer in order to keep your teeth in the desired position. Your dentist will inform you how long you will need to wear your retainer.
Remember to reach out and talk to us about Invisalign to determine if it is the best treatment option for your smile. Before you start to consider Invisalign schedule a dental check-up with us to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy to avoid unnecessary interruption to your orthodontic treatment. Call us on (02) 9158-6115 to book your orthodontic consultation.
