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The journey to your Invisalign treatment commences with a thorough consultation. Together, we delve into your smile aspirations, conduct a comprehensive examination, and craft a tailored treatment plan harnessing the cutting-edge Invisalign technology.
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Invisalign
Invisalign (aligner orthodontics) treatment begins with a comprehensive consultation, including discussion of smile goals, a detailed clinical examination, and the creation of a personalised digital treatment plan using advanced Invisalign technology.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign (aligner orthodontics) is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth and improve bite alignment. Each aligner is custom-made using advanced digital technology and is designed to move teeth in small, controlled stages.
The aligners are only subtly visible when worn and provide a discreet alternative to traditional fixed braces.
Invisalign (aligner orthodontics) can be used to improve both the appearance and function of the smile while allowing patients to continue daily activities with minimal disruption.
How Does Invisalign (Aligner Orthodontics) Work?
Treatment is planned using advanced digital scanning and computer-guided orthodontic software. A detailed digital model of the teeth is created, allowing tooth movements to be carefully mapped from the starting position to the final desired alignment.
A series of custom aligners is then produced, with each aligner worn for approximately one to two weeks before progressing to the next in the sequence. Gentle and controlled forces are applied to guide the teeth into improved positions over time.
For optimal results, aligners should be worn for approximately 20–22 hours per day and removed only for eating, drinking (except water), and cleaning. Regular review appointments are arranged to monitor progress and provide the next sets of aligners.
Treatment duration varies depending on the complexity of the case, but many treatments are completed within six to eighteen months.
Am I Suitable for Invisalign?
Invisalign can be used to treat a wide range of alignment concerns, including crowding, spacing, overbite, underbite, and certain crossbite issues.
Suitability depends on several individual factors, including the severity of misalignment, bite relationship, gum health, and overall oral condition. A comprehensive consultation and clinical assessment are required to determine whether Invisalign is the most appropriate treatment option or if alternative orthodontic solutions should be considered.
In some complex cases, traditional fixed orthodontic appliances or specialist referral may be recommended to achieve the best clinical outcome.
What Does Invisalign Treatment Involve?
Treatment begins with a detailed consultation, including discussion of smile concerns and treatment goals, a full clinical examination, and digital scanning of the teeth. A personalised digital treatment plan is created using advanced Invisalign technology, allowing the planned tooth movements and expected outcomes to be visualised before treatment begins.
As part of the treatment process, small tooth-coloured attachments may be placed on selected teeth. These help the aligners grip the teeth more effectively and guide precise tooth movement. In some cases, a small amount of enamel may be gently reshaped between certain teeth (known as interproximal reduction or IPR) to create space and allow the teeth to align correctly. This is a controlled and conservative procedure and is planned digitally in advance.
Once treatment starts, aligners are worn in sequence and changed at regular intervals as advised. Review appointments are arranged every few weeks to monitor progress and ensure treatment is progressing as planned. Adjustments to the plan may be made if required to achieve the desired outcome.
Some patients may experience mild pressure or discomfort when moving to a new aligner, which usually settles within a few days. Clear instructions are provided on how to wear and care for aligners throughout treatment, including guidance on cleaning and daily wear time.
At the end of active treatment, retainers are provided to maintain the new tooth positions and prevent relapse. The gold standard approach is a combination of fixed and removable retainers. A fixed retainer is a thin wire bonded discreetly to the back of the teeth to hold them in position permanently, while a removable retainer is worn at night to provide additional long-term stability.
Where preferred, removable retainers alone can be provided at the patient’s request. Long-term retention and regular dental reviews are essential to preserve treatment results.
As with all orthodontic treatments, there are potential risks and limitations. These may include temporary discomfort, changes in speech, tooth sensitivity, and the need for excellent oral hygiene to prevent gum or enamel problems. Treatment success depends greatly on patient compliance with wearing aligners as prescribed.