25 February 2021
Invisalign- frequently asked questions
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a really popular orthodontic treatment which uses a series of clear braces to straighten the teeth. The aligners are removable and custom made specifically for your teeth. They are made from flexible plastic and contain no metal at all like traditional braces do. As each one is replaced every two weeks, your teeth will move – little by little, gradually moving towards the projected final position. We will now answer some of the questions that people often ask us about Invisalign. If you’d prefer to see this in video format follow this link:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eND5_6zWBME
1. How will Invisalign treatment straighten my teeth?
The dentist creates a unique, digital treatment plan that maps out the exact movements of your teeth. The Invisalign clear aligners are then designed to apply the right amount of force to the right place at the right time based on your plan. Here is a picture of what the aligner looks like and another picture showing someone wearing the aligner so you can see just how invisible they really are.
2. How much does Invisalign cost?
As with other types of orthodontic (or teeth straightening) treatment, the cost of Invisalign is dependent on the complexity of your issue and your course of treatment. As a general rule the cost is comparable to traditional fixed braces. And, although only the dentist is able to fully determine your cost, prices for Invisalign treatment are generally between £2,500 -£4,500. However, if only minor tooth movement is required, prices could start from £1,500.
3. How long does the process take?
Most patients begin to see results after the first few weeks, and treatment times can be as short as 6 weeks. However the exact treatment time will depend on your individual treatment plan.
4. Is the treatment painful?
Like with any orthodontic treatment there can be an initial discomfort whilst you are getting used to the braces. In general, it is less painful than traditional metal braces, and also like any type of orthodontic treatment, the pain fades after the teeth adjust to wearing the aligners, and to having new aligners swapped in and out.
5. How many hours a day do I need to wear the aligners?
Invisalign aligners are intended to be worn for 22 to 23 hours out of the day. Any less than this, and you risk harming the progress. It’s really important that this is adhered to because if you leave them out for long periods of time this could cause them to shift into an incorrect position. They should only be removed for eating (and drinking anything other than water).
6. What’s the best way to clean my aligners?
The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water. It’s important that you brush your teeth after each meal before re-inserting your aligners to maintain good oral hygiene.
7. How long do I wear a retainer after the treatment is completed?
Once your teeth have reached their final position you will still need to wear a retainer, as is the same following any kind of orthodontic work. This is a clear tray that will look just like the previous aligners and will be custom made for your new smile. The retainer is designed to prevent any movement to the new positions of the teeth. Usually, patients wear their retainers for a minimum of 12 hours daily for the first 6 weeks after treatment, as well as leaving it in overnight. After this, it is only needed to be worn at night but this will be permanent. Teeth will most definitely shift back to their original position if you don’t wear a retainer every night following treatment. Our gold standard protocol here at this practice is to fit a fixed bonded wire retainer at the back of the front 6 teeth, in addition to the night retainer. This will ensure that the teeth will stay firmly in their new positions.
8. What are the benefits of this treatment compared to other orthodontic treatments?
Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible. So much so that no one may even notice that you’re wearing these virtually invisible aligners. Therefore, you will not be conscious of them. Invisalign aligners are removable giving you the flexibility to eat and drink what you want during treatment by simply removing the aligners. And you can also remove the aligners to brush and floss as you normally would to maintain good oral hygiene. Unlike traditional fixed braces, there are no metal brackets or wires. This means that in most cases less time is spent at adjustment appointments. Finally, Invisalign allows you to view your virtual results and treatment plan before you even begin treatment so you can see how your teeth are expected to look when your treatment is complete.
9. Will I be suitable for the treatment?
Nearly everyone will be suitable for this type of treatment, unless you actually need to have teeth removed before straightening. If you have had veneers or crowns previously you will still be able to have this treatment.
10. Why should I choose Church Road for my Invisalign journey/treatment?
We have a wealth of experience with this type of treatment and have had a big success rate treating patients using the Invisalign system. It’s an extremely popular form of orthodontic treatment with a high success rate. In addition, we offer free whitening treatment upon completion of any orthodontics case. Here are a couple of cases we have recently completed here, so you can see for yourself how amazing the results are with this treatment.
If you’d like any further information about Invisalign, or any other type of orthodontic treatment we offer follow this link to the treatments section of our website: https://www.cheadlehulmedental.com/treatments/
