Invisalign Orthodontics is a popular orthodontic treatment in which you wear a series of clear, plastic aligners that gradually shift your teeth into the desired position over time. Invisalign makes use of 3-D computer imaging technology to create these clear aligner sets, each set being custom-made for you. The aligners are so transparent that even your dentist can’t tell you’re wearing them.
Invisalign was founded in 1997. Its parent company Align Technologies Inc. created transparent aligners which are clear, removable and comfortable for patients to wear. The products are produced using CAD/CAM (Computer Assisted Design/Computer Assisted Manufacturing).
Aligners are designed to move your teeth gradually without you even noticing it. Invisalign is only suitable for adults and teenagers over the age of 14 years old. As per dentist Woollahra, the best candidates for this treatment are those not interested in traditional metal braces but want straighter teeth. The most significant advantage of these aligners is that they look great in your mouth, and you will not feel the need to talk with your mouth closed for fear of showing them off, unlike in the case of conventional braces where you need to fix your mouth in a certain way not to show the braces.
As they are custom-made, your teeth will be perfectly aligned so you can smile with confidence. They are also removable, so you can eat whatever you want throughout treatment without restriction. The aligners are also comfortable and almost unnoticeable both when talking or eating.
The aligners are only worn for 20-22 hours a day. Therefore, it is advised not to brush your teeth with the aligner in place. Instead, wash them after each meal. When using Invisalign, you can use regular toothpaste to clean your teeth, or if they are sensitive, there are special toothpastes available that do not erode the aligners.
The whole treatment consists of around 1,500 to 2,000 individual aligner trays that need replacing over a period of approximately 18 months (most cases take about 15 months) as each lot of aligners is custom-made for you and designed to move your teeth gradually. Each set is worn for about two weeks before swapping it for the next set in your treatment.
The cost of Invisalign varies widely depending on where you live and how long your teeth will take to align. However, most dentists charge a set price depending on the severity of your case.
Aligners are made of smooth, medical-grade plastic, an inert material that’s been proven safe for use over many years. They also have removable rubber bands which help to hold them in place.
The process begins with a consultation and x-rays, followed by a 3D data scan that will be used to create your custom set. Then, you can expect to visit your doctor’s office approximately every six weeks to get fitted with another aligner in the series, with each set taking about two weeks to become fully effective. The entire process takes 9 to 15 months, but that time may vary depending on the severity of your case. After you complete treatment with Invisalign, conventional braces are usually recommended for any necessary refinement.
If you are one of the many people looking to improve their smile, Invisalign Orthodontics may be the perfect solution for you.