The changing face of Invisalign
The low down on the most popular clear aligners, available from Life Dental
Invisalign as a concept was first brought to market in the year 2000.
Since then its popularity and availability have both grown exponentially making it a household name in many countries worldwide.
The reasons for this incredible rise are its many advantages versus traditional braces, these will be discussed in the following article, along with some handy tips when selecting this type of aligner.
Life Dental & Wellbeing offers a comprehensive service for a course of Invisalign clear aligners. We're currently offering initial consultations for Invisalign at just £50.
Why choose Invisalign?
Invisalign is different in two important ways, firstly the aligners used are clear making them much more visually pleasing than the metal wires used for traditional braces.
Secondly, the aligners are easily removable so it is much easier to brush effectively and to eat normally without fear of damaging your braces or indeed, the risk of food getting into places where brushing can't reach.
This latter point is of very high importance, as stuck food debris is the primary cause of plaque buildup and its many potential issues, such as tooth decay and tooth abscesses which can be expensive, time-consuming and in some cases extremely hazardous to health.
What are Invisalign Aligners
Invisalign aligners are made from a flexible plastic material and are custom-made to fit perfectly.
The treatment used is progressive and gradually corrects the angle of your teeth over time.
Unlike traditional braces, this is done with multiple sets of aligners that are each worn for a shorter period of time. As the course for each aligner set concludes, the aligners are then switched to another slightly different set, and so on until full correction is achieved.
The benefits of Invisalign
Here are some of the key reasons to choose Invisalign:
They are virtually invisible: Because there are no obvious wires or brackets, and the plastic used is thin and transparent, it is often difficult to notice if someone is even wearing Invisalign.
Faster Results: The correction system used is extremely effective in producing results in a much faster time period than traditional braces, sometimes in as little as 6 months.
They are removable: This means that for eating and for brushing you can simply pop out the aligner then put them back in again afterwards. This is not only convenient but also keeps teeth optimally healthy and protects the aligners themselves.
Comfort: Aligners are much more comfortable than standard metal braces, due to their bespoke fit and flexibility.
Know the results before they happen: Invisalign uses 3D Imaging technology to forecast how your smile will look in the end, allowing you to get excited long before the finish line.
The cost
Invisalign in many cases is actually cheaper than braces, especially when the correction required is minimal and therefore needs a shorter treatment time.
But this does depend greatly on the complexity of the case and the required aligner adjustments throughout the time of your plan.
Invisalign Step-by-Step
Step 1: The Consultation
At the first appointment, your dentist will look at the structure of your teeth and gums to assess what work is required and whether Invisalign is an appropriate solution for you.
At this point, an intraoral scan may also be suggested to allow you to preview the forecasted results.
Step 2: Preparing your aligners
Using the information from step 1, your aligners are constructed to perfectly suit the contours of your mouth to make your experience with them as comfortable as possible.
Step 3. Getting your aligners
An appointment is made to test your aligners in your mouth to make sure the fit is suitable and you experience as little discomfort as possible while wearing them.
During this appointment, your dentist will also discuss what to expect throughout the course of your aligner treatment so there are no surprises along the way.
Step 4. Aligner discipline
When wearing an easily removable aligner it may be tempting to remove them regularly because it's so easy, but it is important to wear your aligners for a significant portion of the day and night, 20-22 hours is recommended, only removing them to eat, drink, brush or floss. This allows for optimal correction in the shortest time, with the minimum of potential delays.
Every 4 weeks your alignment will be checked to ensure it is progressing as expected.
Step 5. The end is in sight
After the final course of aligners, your teeth should be nice and straight, at this point the straightening treatment will end, and a retainer will be provided. This needs to be worn every night for around 12 months, and a few days per week thereafter.
An important final point
When it comes to Invisalign, it is of extreme importance to keep your aligners clean, follow any instructions to the letter and your aligners will perform at their highest ensuring the smoothest possible transition to a beautiful smile.
