More people than ever before are using Invisalign to transform their smiles, restore their confidence, and straighten their teeth.
Now more accessible and affordable than it has ever been, this treatment involves using a system of clear, removable aligners that are designed to straighten your teeth over a set period of time. To achieve the very best results, the aligners are usually changed every two weeks until your teeth gradually move into the desired position.
If you’re considering Invisalign, you’ve certainly landed in the right place. We have created a helpful guide outlining everything you need to know.
What is Invisalign made of?
Invisalign aligners are customised trays that are made out of plastic or polyurethane resins.
This incredibly discreet material is strong enough to gradually shift the teeth through focussed pressure, without it being uncomfortable for the Invisalign patient.
This means that, during the Invisalign process, patients are able to speak and smile, without any issues. So you can go about your day-to-day life whilst your teeth are being straightened discreetly.
How does it work?
So many people opt for Invisalign treatments because this method of straightening your smile is practically invisible. Using cutting-edge, 3D computer-imaging technology, your dentist will take images of the current position of your teeth and then plan the final straightened position of your teeth, so that a bespoke treatment plan can be put into place to gradually align your teeth.
Throughout the process, you will need to replace your Invisalign retainers with a new set until the desired results are achieved. This is generally every two weeks.
This helps to move the teeth gradually using a technique referred to in the world of dentistry as a controlled force. This is a much less painful way of aligning your teeth in comparison to metal braces.
Who is Invisalign suitable for?
Invisalign treatment benefits a whole host of different people, particularly those with these common dental conditions:
- Overly crowded teeth
- Open bite
- Deep bite
- Crossbite
- Underbite
- Gapped teeth
If you are wondering whether not this is a suitable treatment for you, it’s always worthwhile speaking to your general dentist for advice who will point you in the right direction.
How long does treatment take?
When it comes to treatment plans for Invisalign patients, it’s not a case of one size fits. All plans are customised to each patient’s needs, depending on the severity of their case and dental conditions.
As a general rule of thumb, the majority of Invisalign treatments take between 12 and 18 months.
How much does it cost?
Again, this depends on your individual circumstances as prices can vary depending on what work you need to be done and how long your treatment will take.
In the UK, prices range from £2,500 and £5,500 however, each case is assessed on an individual basis.
Advantages of Invisalign
There are lots of advantages that come hand in hand with Invisalign, including the following:
- The aligners are removable
- Easy to use
- Virtually invisible
- Thinner than an average mouthguard
- Facilitate better gum health
- Eat whatever you want – providing that you remove the aligners of course!
- Quicker results than traditional braces
- Comfortable
- More affordable than ever before
- Effective results
- Bespoke treatment to your needs
The process
If you decide that Invisalign is the best solution to straighten your teeth, you can expect the process to be relatively straightforward. Your dentist will manage each stage of the process, frequently checking in to ensure that the process is moving forward seamlessly and addressing any issues as you go.
This is what the Invisalign process typically looks like:
- You will begin by having an initial consultation with your orthodontist to assess your suitability for this procedure. At this stage, your general oral health will be assessed and this is also the perfect opportunity for you to ask your dentist any questions that you might have.
- Your orthodontist will then create a treatment plan that is completely bespoke to your needs. During this stage, your dentist will use cutting-edge 3D computer-imaging technology to take the current and final straightened position of your teeth.
- You will then need to wait for your aligners to be made. Your dentist will be in touch once they arrive.
Now it’s time to wear your aligners, changing them frequently at the intervals set out by your dentist - Your orthodontist will then refine your smile.
Aftercare
Aftercare is incredibly important and, once you stop wearing Invisalign, you will need to wear orthodontic retainers whilst the new bone is deposited. This process can take between 9 to 12 months for your body to build up enough bone to stabilise your teeth.
During this time, you should:
- Clean your retainers regularly
- Do not eat with the retainers in
- Wear them for the recommended time
- Maintain good oral hygiene throughout the treatment
Why choose Boutique Dental for Invisalign braces?
When deciding the best clear brace option for you, it’s always beneficial to refer to your dentistry professional, who will be able to advise you on the best treatment option. Boutique Dental 23 are accredited Silver Invisalign provider and provides Invisalign GO & Invisalign Comprehensive treatments. Check out how our team at Boutique dental can help you with your Invisalign treatment today!
