Invisalign is a modern alternative to traditional metal braces for straightening teeth. It uses a series of custom-made, clear, plastic aligners that fit snugly over the teeth. These aligners are changed every one to two weeks, with each new set gradually moving the teeth closer to the desired position. Invisalign is nearly invisible, making it a discreet option for orthodontic treatment, and it can be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing.
It’s designed to treat a variety of dental issues, including crowding, gaps, overbites, underbites, and crossbites, offering a more comfortable and convenient way to achieve a straighter smile.
Start transforming your smile right from your first fitting
Say “goodbye” to traditional metal “train track” braces!
Get straight teeth and the smile you deserve with incredibly discrete, almost invisible, removable aligners that other people won’t even notice you’re wearing.
Invisalign aligners are also removable and allow you to eat and drink whatever you like.
If your upper and lower teeth don't touch when your mouth is closed, this is known as an open bite.
People are said to have crooked teeth when the teeth in the upper and/or lower jaw are poorly aligned.
Crowded teeth occur when there isn't enough room within the jaw for the teeth to fit together normally.
When you have extra space between two or more of your teeth, this is known as gapped teeth.
A crossbite is when some teeth sit inside the lower jaw instead of on the outside (as is normally the case).
Underbites occur when the lower front teeth rest in front of the upper teeth when the mouth is closed.
Invisalign Dentist
Invisalign Dentist
Debra Peters
Debra Peters
Evelyn Jasmine
Start transforming your smile right from your first fitting
Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth. Unlike traditional metal braces, these custom-made aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating, drinking, and cleaning.
The primary distinctions include aesthetic appeal, comfort, and flexibility. Invisalign aligners are made from smooth, transparent SmartTrack® material, eliminating the metal brackets and wires associated with conventional orthodontics.
– Aesthetically pleasing and barely noticeable
– Removable for eating, drinking, and special occasions
– Typically more comfortable than traditional braces
– Easier to maintain oral hygiene
Each set of aligners applies precisely controlled forces to move teeth into their prescribed position. The treatment involves wearing a sequence of aligners, each making incremental adjustments to tooth position.
While Invisalign offers numerous advantages, individual cases vary, and consulting with an orthodontist is essential to determine the most suitable treatment approach for your specific dental needs.
Ideal candidates for Invisalign treatment typically include teenagers and adults with mild to moderate orthodontic issues who demonstrate good dental hygiene habits and commitment to treatment compliance.
The best candidates usually have:
– Fully developed adult teeth
– Good oral health with no untreated decay or gum disease
– Realistic expectations about treatment outcomes
– Commitment to wearing aligners as prescribed
While Invisalign is suitable for most ages, the treatment is particularly popular among:
– Adults seeking discrete orthodontic treatment
– Teenagers with fully erupted permanent teeth
– Professionals wanting a nearly invisible solution
A thorough consultation with an orthodontist is necessary to determine individual suitability, as some complex cases may require traditional orthodontic approaches.
The duration of Invisalign treatment varies depending on individual cases, but typically ranges from 12 to 18 months for most patients.
Treatment length is influenced by:
– Complexity of dental issues
– Compliance with wearing aligners
– Individual response to treatment
– Initial position of teeth
– Initial consultation and planning: 2-4 weeks
– Active treatment phase: 6-18 months
– Refinement period (if needed): 2-3 months
Regular check-ups every 6-8 weeks help monitor progress and ensure treatment stays on schedule. Consistent aligner wear of 20-22 hours daily is crucial for achieving optimal results within the projected timeframe.
The Invisalign journey begins with a comprehensive consultation and digital planning process, utilizing advanced 3D imaging technology.
The process includes:
– Comprehensive oral examination
– Digital scanning of teeth
– Treatment planning with ClinCheck® software
– Custom aligner fabrication
– Creation of 3D treatment preview
– Customised movement schedule
– Virtual outcome visualisation
Once your custom aligners are fabricated, you’ll receive detailed instructions for wear and care, ensuring the best possible treatment outcome.
Invisalign aligners must be worn for 20-22 hours daily to achieve optimal results within the planned treatment timeline.
Aligners should only be removed for:
– Eating and drinking (except water)
– Brushing and flossing
– Special occasions (briefly)
– Cleaning the aligners
– Consistent wear ensures steady progress
– Reduced wear time may extend treatment
– Regular wear prevents tooth movement regression
Maintaining the prescribed wear schedule is crucial for treatment success and achieving the desired results within the planned timeframe.
While Invisalign is suitable for many patients, certain factors may make traditional orthodontic treatments more appropriate.
Factors that may affect eligibility include:
– Severe bite problems or complex tooth movements
– Active gum disease or tooth decay
– Bridge work or certain types of dental crowns
– Insufficient commitment to wear time requirements
– Young children with developing teeth
– Patients with baby teeth present
– Cases requiring significant jaw alignment
A thorough assessment by an orthodontist will determine whether Invisalign is the most suitable treatment option for your specific case.
Invisalign can effectively treat various orthodontic issues, though the complexity of the case affects treatment success.
Invisalign can address:
– Crowded teeth
– Gaps between teeth
– Overbite and underbite
– Crossbite and open bite
– Severe rotations
– Complex bite problems
– Significant tooth movements
Your orthodontist will evaluate your specific case to determine if Invisalign can achieve your desired results.
Proper cleaning and maintenance of Invisalign aligners is essential for hygiene and treatment effectiveness.
Essential care includes:
– Rinsing aligners when removed
– Brushing aligners with lukewarm water
– Using Invisalign cleaning crystals or recommended cleaners
– Storing aligners in their case
– Avoid hot water (can warp aligners)
– Don’t use coloured soaps (can stain)
– Never eat with aligners in
Following proper cleaning protocols helps maintain aligner clarity and prevents odour or bacterial build-up.
Post-treatment retention is crucial for maintaining your new smile after completing Invisalign therapy.
The retention plan typically includes:
– Custom-made retainers
– Initial full-time wear period
– Gradual transition to night-time wear
– Regular retention checks
– Regular dental check-ups
– Proper retainer maintenance
– Monitoring tooth position
Your orthodontist will create a personalised retention plan to help maintain your results long-term.
Invisalign aligners must be removed for eating and drinking anything other than water to prevent damage and staining.
Key rules include:
– Remove aligners before eating
– Drink only water with aligners in
– Clean teeth before reinserting aligners
– Store aligners safely during meals
– Hot drinks (can warp aligners)
– Coloured beverages (can stain)
– Acidic drinks
While this requires some lifestyle adjustment, the removable nature of aligners allows for normal eating habits when aligners are properly stored.