What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is the invisible new way to straighten teeth without braces. Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth, without metal or wires. It combines 21st century technology and revolutionary manufacturing to customise a treatment for each individual patient.
Does Invisalign really work?
Yes. In both clinical research and in dental and orthodontic practices around the world, Invisalign has been proven effective at straightening teeth. Over 400,000 patients have either been treated or are in treatment and over 36,000 dental practitioners have been trained on how to use Invisalign.
Does Invisalign work as well as normal braces?
In most cases, Invisalign has proven to be as effective at straightening teeth as traditional braces. Your orthodontist will determine the best possible method for you. Some severe cases may require treatment using Invisalign together with another teeth straightening technique.
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign uses 3-D computer imaging technology to depict the complete treatment plan from the initial position to the final desired position from which a series of custom-made “aligners” are produced. Each aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.
What are the primary benefits of Invisalign?
There are four primary benefits of orthodontic treatment using Invisalign:
- Invisalign is nearly invisible – you can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.
- Invisalign is removable – you can eat and drink what you want during treatment; you can also brush and floss normally to maintain good oral hygiene.
- Invisalign is comfortable – there are no metal brackets or wires to cause mouth irritation: no metal or wires also means you spend less time in the doctor’s chair getting adjustments.
- Invisalign allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan before you start – so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.
What are aligners made of?
Aligners are made of clear, strong, medical grade, non-toxic plastic that is virtually invisible when worn.
How long will treatment take?
The length of treatment is dependent on the severity of individual cases. Treatment may vary from anywhere between six months to two years width an average treatment taking around 12 to 14 months.
How does Invisalign effectively move teeth?
Like brackets and arch wires, the Invisalign aligner moves teeth through the appropriate placement of controlled force on the teeth. The principal difference is that Invisalign not only controls forces, but also controls the timing of the force application. At each stage, only certain teeth are allowed to move, and these movements are determined by the orthodontic treatment plan for that particular stage. This results in an efficient force delivery system.
How do I know if I am a candidate for Invisalign?
Only your orthodontist, who has been Invisalign accredited, can determine if Invisalign is an effective option for you.
What conditions would make me unsuitable for Invisalign?
Only your orthodontist is able to determine whether your particular case is suitable to be treated with Invisalign. Three types of tooth movements have been found to be less predictably achieved with Invisalign alone:
- Severe derotations of cylindrical teeth
- Complex extrusions
- Closure of large spaces usually associated with extraction of teeth other than lower incisors.
What is the minimum age that Invisalign can treat?
Almost all teenagers over the age of 14 are eligible for treatment with Invisalign as long as their second (twelve year old) molars are fully erupted.
I am currently wearing braces – can I make the switch to the Invisalign?
Many patients are being treated with some form of combination of braces and Invisalign. You should consult your orthodontist to determine the best treatment for you.
Does Invisalign work on overbites (overjets) and how?
Yes, Invisalign can correct mild to moderate overbites. The aligners create a force on the front teeth causing them to intrude, thus correcting the overbite.
Are crowns a factor in Invisalign treatment?
Crowns are usually not a factor in Invisalign treatment. However small composites call attachments are sometimes bonded onto teeth to help achieve certain movements. In these cases the location of crowns must be carefully evaluated.
Can Invisalign close gaps in my teeth?
Yes, spaces between teeth are generally easy to close with Invisalign. However the size and location of the spaces will need to be evaluated.
Will the treatment be painful?
Most people experience temporary, minor discomfort for a few days at the beginning of each new stage of treatment. This is normal and is typically described as a felling of pressure. It is a sign that the Invisalign aligners are working – sequentially moving your teeth to their final destination. This discomfort typically goes away a couple of days after you insert the new aligner in the series.
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