Invisalign gently moves your teeth into a straighter position using a series of removable aligners. It is a popular alternative to traditional braces, particularly for adults who would rather not have visible brackets and wires on their teeth.
Invisalign is not simply about creating a nicer looking smile. Depending on your individual needs, treatment can also improve the alignment of your bite and make certain areas of your mouth easier to keep clean.
How Does Invisalign Actually Work?
It is quite a simple idea, although the treatment itself is carefully planned. Your dentist uses scans or impressions of your teeth to create a personalised treatment plan. You are then given a series of clear aligners, with each one designed to make a small adjustment to the position of your teeth.
You wear one aligner before moving on to the next. Over time, these small movements add up, gradually bringing your teeth closer to their intended position.
The aligners are made from clear plastic and fit closely over your teeth. They are removable too, which means you can take them out when you eat, drink anything other than water and brush your teeth.
What Can Invisalign Help With?
Invisalign can be used to correct a number of common alignment problems. This includes crowded teeth, spaces between teeth and some types of bite problem.
For example, if your teeth overlap because there is limited room in your mouth, carefully planned movement may create a more even alignment. If you have noticeable gaps, Invisalign may be able to bring the teeth closer together.
It can also be used for certain cases involving an overbite, underbite or crossbite. However, clear aligners are not suitable for every orthodontic problem, so an assessment is important before deciding whether treatment is right for you.
Invisalign can be used to correct a number of common alignment problems.
Why Do People Choose Invisalign Instead Of Braces?
For many people, the biggest attraction is simply the appearance. Invisalign aligners are clear, so they tend to be much less noticeable than conventional braces. This can be particularly appealing if you are working with clients, regularly meeting people or simply do not like the idea of wearing visible braces.
There is also the practical side. You can remove Invisalign aligners to eat, so there is no need to avoid particular foods because they could damage brackets or wires. You can also brush and floss without having to work around fixed orthodontic appliances.
According to Invisalign, more than 22 million people worldwide have used its clear aligners. That gives some indication of just how widely the treatment has become used.
Does Invisalign Make Your Teeth Easier To Clean?
Potentially, yes. Teeth that are crowded, overlapping or positioned awkwardly can sometimes be harder to clean properly. Food and plaque may collect in areas that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush or interdental cleaner.
Bringing the teeth into a more even position can make your daily cleaning routine easier. It is worth remembering, though, that straight teeth do not automatically mean healthy teeth. You still need to brush thoroughly, clean between your teeth and attend regular dental appointments.
Good oral hygiene is especially important while wearing aligners as keeping your teeth and the aligners clean helps to maintain a healthy mouth during treatment.
How Long Does Invisalign Take?
There is no standard Invisalign treatment time because everyone’s teeth are different. A relatively small adjustment may take only a few months, whereas more involved treatment can take considerably longer.
Your dentist will be able to give you a more realistic idea after assessing your teeth. You may also be shown a digital representation of how your smile could change during treatment.
How consistently you wear your aligners matters too. Invisalign generally needs to be worn for around 20 to 22 hours a day, with the exact instructions provided by your dental professional. Regularly leaving the aligners out for long periods can interfere with your progress.
There is no standard Invisalign treatment time because everyone’s teeth are different.
Is Invisalign Suitable For Everyone?
Not necessarily. Invisalign can be suitable for many adults and teenagers, but the right treatment depends on your teeth, gums and the type of movement required.
Any existing dental problems may need to be dealt with before orthodontic treatment begins. Your dentist will also consider your bite and whether clear aligners can realistically achieve the movement you need.
It is therefore worth having a proper assessment rather than assuming Invisalign will be suitable simply because you have seen someone else achieve good results with it.
Could Invisalign Improve Your Smile?
If you are unhappy with crooked, crowded or spaced teeth, Invisalign could offer a discreet way to gradually improve their position. More than 1.4 million teenagers alone have reportedly used Invisalign, showing that clear aligner treatment is no longer something limited to adults.
At Preventive Dental in Southfields, our team can assess your smile and talk through the options available to you! Invisalign may not be the answer for every patient, but where it is appropriate, it can provide a convenient and discreet way to work towards a straighter looking smile without traditional fixed braces.
