If you’ve been wanting straighter teeth but prefer to avoid traditional metal braces, Invisalign clear aligners might be the ideal option for you. Invisalign offers cutting-edge orthodontic treatment using personalised, removable aligners that gradually shift your teeth into the correct position, all without the discomfort and obvious appearance of conventional fixed braces. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about getting Invisalign, from your first consultation to keeping your smile perfect after treatment.
What Is Invisalign and How Does It Work?
Invisalign uses advanced technology to create custom aligners tailored to your teeth and unique orthodontic needs. The aligners are made from a clear, flexible material that is nearly invisible when worn, making them a favourable choice for patients who prefer a more discreet option than traditional braces. They work by gradually shifting your teeth into their desired positions over time.
Unlike conventional edgewise braces, which rely on metal brackets and wires, Invisalign clear aligners fit snugly over teeth and can be removed when eating, drinking, or cleaning them. The system is designed to straighten teeth effectively while enabling you to preserve your oral health and avoid the challenges associated with fixed appliances.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Invisalign
Getting Invisalign involves a few key steps to ensure that your treatment is effective and tailored to your needs. From your initial consultation to wearing your custom aligners and completing the process, each step plays a crucial role in helping you achieve your ideal smile. Let’s walk through how the Invisalign treatment process works from start to finish.
Schedule an Initial Consultation
This consultation is an opportunity to discuss your goals, such as addressing crooked teeth, closing gaps, or improving your bite. Your provider will also explain how Invisalign treatment works and may take digital impressions or scans to create a sneak peek of your new smile after treatment.
Developing a Custom Treatment Plan
Once your Invisalign doctor confirms you’re a candidate for Invisalign treatment, they will create a customised treatment plan tailored to your needs. This treatment plan outlines how your teeth will move throughout the process, using advanced imaging technology to map out each stage.
You’ll also receive information on how long your treatment time will be, which can vary depending on the complexity of your case. Invisalign treatment times vary depending on factors like the severity of your malocclusion (misalignment) and how well you adhere to the instructions for wearing your aligners. Most patients wear Invisalign for 12 to 18 months.
Receiving Your Invisalign Aligners
After finalising your treatment plan, Invisalign aligners are custom-made and delivered to your dentist. You’ll receive multiple sets of aligners to wear over a designated period, usually around two weeks per set. The aligners work by applying gentle pressure to move your teeth into place.
Each aligner is slightly different, targeting specific teeth and stages of movement. They are designed to be worn for at least 20 to 22 hours a day, with the option to remove them for meals, cleaning, and special occasions.
Monitoring Your Progress
Routine visits to your dentist will ensure that your treatment plan stays on course. These appointments generally occur every 6 to 8 weeks, during which your provider will assess your progress and give you the next set of aligners.
Invisalign’s advanced clear aligner system allows for more flexibility and comfort compared to traditional braces, but it’s essential to follow your treatment guidelines closely to achieve the best results. During the adjustment period, you’ll also have the chance to address any concerns, such as discomfort or a slight lisp.
Completing Treatment and Wearing Retainers
Once your teeth have moved into their desired positions, your Invisalign journey isn’t quite over. After completing the active treatment process, you’ll need to wear a retainer to keep your teeth from shifting back. Retainers are typically worn at night and are just as discreet as Invisalign trays.
Your dentist will give you guidance on how often to wear your retainer and when to transition to occasional use. This ensures your new smile remains perfect long after you’ve finished your Invisalign treatment.
Why Choose Invisalign Over Traditional Braces?
When it comes to straightening teeth, Invisalign offers an advanced approach that many patients find appealing. Understanding how it compares to traditional braces can help you make an informed decision about your orthodontic treatment.
Virtually Invisible
Removable and Comfortable
Unlike conventional fixed appliances, Invisalign aligners can be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. This makes it easier to maintain ideal oral hygiene throughout your treatment and eliminates the food restrictions that come with traditional braces.
Suitable for Most Cases
Invisalign is capable of addressing a broad spectrum of dental concerns, from mild to moderate alignment issues. Whether you’re dealing with crowding, spacing, or even some complex bite issues, Invisalign offers an alternative to conventional edgewise braces with high levels of success.
Shorter Treatment Time
While treatment times vary depending on case complexity, Invisalign tends to be more efficient for many patients compared to traditional braces. The comparative time efficiency of Invisalign is due in part to the precision of the custom aligners and the controlled movements they provide.
Comfortable Fit
Since the aligners are customised to fit your teeth, they are more comfortable than conventional fixed appliances. You won’t have to deal with the discomfort of metal brackets and wires, and there are fewer chances of developing sores or irritation inside your mouth.
How to Care for Your Invisalign Aligners
Maintaining your aligners is crucial to ensure your treatment process goes smoothly. Here are a few tips to keep your Invisalign trays in top condition:
- Wear Time: Wear your aligners for the advised 20-22 hours daily to achieve the best possible results.
- Cleaning: Clean your aligners regularly by gently brushing them using a toothbrush with soft bristles and lukewarm water. Steer clear of using toothpaste, as it may be too abrasive for the aligners.
- Remove for Eating: Always take out your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. This stops food particles from becoming lodged, which could result in tooth decay or other oral health problems.
- Practise Speaking: If you notice a slight lisp in the first few days, practise speaking with your aligners in place to get used to the feel.
Invisalign Treatment Cost and Financing Options
The cost of Invisalign treatment varies based on factors like your location and the complexity of your case, with prices starting at around $6,000 AUD. It’s important to consult your provider about the exact costs and explore any available financing options to make the treatment more budget-friendly.
Is Invisalign Right for You?
If you’re considering Invisalign aligners but are unsure if it’s the right choice, the best step is to consult a dentist experienced in Invisalign. They can assess whether you’re a suitable candidate depending on your dental history, overall health, and treatment goals. Invisalign is ideal for most people with mild to moderate alignment issues, but those with more severe cases may need conventional fixed appliances or other orthodontic treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Getting Invisalign
How do I know if I’m a good candidate for Invisalign?
Invisalign is ideal for many individuals with mild to moderate alignment issues, like crooked teeth, gaps, or bite concerns. However, the best way to determine if it’s right for you is to consult an Invisalign doctor, who can assess your dental health and provide expert advice on whether Invisalign is the best treatment for your needs.
What advantages does Invisalign offer compared to traditional braces?
The key benefits of Invisalign over traditional braces include their clear, almost invisible appearance, the ability to take them out when eating or cleaning your teeth, and overall comfort since there are no metal brackets or wires. These factors make Invisalign a more flexible and discreet option for straightening your teeth.
Is it okay to eat and drink while wearing Invisalign aligners?
Invisalign aligners should always be taken out before eating or drinking anything other than water. This prevents food particles from being trapped in the aligners, which could cause dental issues such as tooth decay. After meals, it’s important to brush your teeth before reinserting the aligners to maintain proper oral hygiene.
How often do I need to wear my aligners?
For ideal results, aligners need to be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day. Removing them only for meals, cleaning, and special occasions ensures that your teeth continue to shift according to the treatment plan.
How do I clean my Invisalign aligners?
You can keep your aligners clean by gently brushing them with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water. It’s important not to use toothpaste or hot water, as these can damage the aligners. Keeping them clean helps maintain their transparency and prevents bad odours.
Will Invisalign affect my speech?
Some people may encounter a slight lisp when they first start wearing the aligners, but this usually goes away as your tongue gets used to them. Most patients adapt within a few days, and practising speaking can help speed up this adjustment.
What should I do if I lose an aligner?
If you lose or damage an aligner, reach out to your dentist immediately. Based on your treatment stage, they may recommend moving to the next aligner or arranging for a replacement to be made.
Can I remove my aligners for special occasions?
Yes, one of the positive aspects of Invisalign is that you can remove the aligners for short periods, like during special occasions. However, to keep your treatment on track, it’s crucial to wear the aligners for a minimum of 20 to 22 hours each day.
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
The length of treatment differs according to individual cases. Treatment times are influenced by factors like the severity of your dental problems and how consistently you wear your aligners. On average, most treatments last between 12 to 18 months.
What happens after I finish Invisalign treatment?
Once your Invisalign treatment is complete, you’ll likely need to wear a retainer to stop your teeth from turning back to their previous positions. Your dentist will advise you on how often to wear it and for how long to maintain your new smile.
Achieve Your Dream Smile with Invisalign
For more information or to begin your Invisalign journey, schedule an appointment with Balmoral Dental Care, call us at (07) 3113 9789 take the first step towards a beautiful smile today!
References:
Patel, S. (2021). Does Invisalign work? Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/does-invisalign-work
Pappas, C. (2020). Metal braces: Uses, costs, benefits, and more. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/metal-braces-uses-costs-benefits-and-more-2
Invisalign. (n.d.). Retainers after Invisalign treatment. Invisalign. https://www.invisalign.com/resources/living-with-invisalign/retainers-after-invisalign
Colgate. (n.d.). What causes crooked teeth? Colgate. https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/adult-orthodontics/what-causes-crooked-teeth