Invisalign is a modern alternative to traditional fixed braces helping to straighten teeth and create a great smile. Using advanced ClinCheck software and align technology, your orthodontist will create a bespoke treatment plan that will address any problems you may have with your smile, such as crooked teeth or an open bite.
There are many types of braces available, such as Damon braces, Lingual braces, ceramic braces and metal braces. All of these are capable of performing tooth straightening treatment with varying degrees of speed and efficiency. However, Invisalign has the benefit of letting you see how your teeth will look throughout your treatment using modern technology.
The clear aligners used during Invisalign treatment have several benefits compared to traditional braces fitted around your teeth. These aligners are removable, which makes cleaning your teeth and the aligners themselves much easier. They are also nearly invisible, allowing you to smile without worrying about showing off unappealing metal braces.
The orthodontic treatment process starts with your dentist taking scans of your mouth using a special scanner, such as the iTero Element Scanner. These scans are used to create a 3D model of your mouth which can be used to design your ideal smile, and showcase the stages of your treatment.
Once you're happy with how your final smile will look, the scans will be sent off and used to create a series of custom plastic aligners. By wearing each set of aligners in order, your braces will gradually move your teeth towards the desired position.
Treatment times vary depending on how long the invisible braces are worn for per day, but can be expected to last anywhere from 6 to 15 months. Patients should try to wear their aligners for a minimum of 22 hours per day, and only remove the aligners to eat, drink and clean.
Invisalign aligners are an effective solution for treating a large number of orthodontic problems, including minor teeth misalignment or more serious bite alignment issues (malocclusions). Your orthodontist will show you in detail how these problems will be tackled using the 3D software.
Overbite or overjet is when the upper teeth protrude past the bottom teeth, creating a gap between the teeth when biting down. Using Invisalign, this type of problem can be treated less invasively and in a shorter time frame than when traditional braces are used.
Underbites are the opposite problem to overbites, where the lower teeth protrude past the upper teeth. Most children grow-out of this, however adults will need to consult an orthodontist to correct this bite issue. Invisalign is able to manoeuvre your teeth and rectify this issue.
Crossbite is an orthodontic problem where teeth that are supposed to be on the outside are instead on the inside. Though this is seen as an aesthetic problem, it can create other orthodontic problems if not treated.
Overcrowding occurs when there is not enough room in your mouth for your teeth, and can occur on both the top and bottom jaw. Though this can be caused by a number of different factors, it can also be responsible for crooked or overlapping teeth. Straightening your teeth using Invisalign can correct this problem.
Uneven spaces between your teeth is another common orthodontic problem that can be an aesthetic concern, but may also cause problems with cleaning your teeth or discomfort due to exposed gums. Invisalign can adjust the spaces between your teeth to create improved alignment between your teeth.
Once you've finished your series of aligners and you've reached your desired smile, your orthodontist will give you a removeable retainer to wear. This will help keep your teeth in place and prevent a relapse, where your teeth return to their original locations. It's important to commit to wearing your retainer, especially in the months following your treatment where relapsing is more common
Invisalign treatment comes in different forms, dependent on the extent and complexity of treatment required. Contact us today to find out more, and book a consultation with one of our orthodontists.
