Straightening teeth is a crucial aspect of dental hygiene. An improper arrangement of teeth can lead to difficulties in biting, chewing and even speaking. If you want to fix your teeth but are hesitant to consider traditional metal braces, Invisalign is an excellent alternative. Invisalign treatment involves using advanced clear aligner systems to adjust teeth gradually. In this article, we will look at what Invisalign is and its benefits compared to traditional braces. We will also cover the Invisalign process, its cost, and other essential information.
Explanation of Invisalign
So, what is Invisalign? Invisalign treatment involves using a series of custom-made, clear aligners to shift your teeth into proper alignment gradually. Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks before being swapped out for the next set in the series, gradually moving your teeth closer to their final position. The plastic aligners are virtually invisible, making them a popular alternative to traditional metal braces.
Invisalign clear aligners are discreet and removable, allowing for more comfortable eating, brushing, and flossing. Unlike traditional metal braces, where metal brackets are placed on the teeth and connected with metal wires, Invisalign aligners are made of durable plastic. The clear aligners are created with advanced 3D scanning technology that creates a detailed image of your teeth and a custom treatment plan based on your unique dental needs.
Invisalign technicians then use computer-aided design technology to create your custom aligners. Unlike traditional metal braces, where metal brackets are placed on the teeth and connected with metal wires, Invisalign aligners are made of durable plastic. The clear aligners are created with advanced 3D scanning technology that creates a detailed image of your teeth and a custom treatment plan based on your unique dental needs. Invisalign technicians then use computer-aided design technology to create your custom aligners.
A Brief History of Invisalign
Now, let’s dive into the brief history of Invisalign. Invisalign aligners were first introduced in 1997 by Align Technology.
Initially targeting patients with moderate malocclusion, Invisalign quickly expanded to a wider range of orthodontic conditions, including crowding, spacing, and bite correction.
Today, Invisalign is a recognised brand used by millions of patients worldwide.
How Invisalign Works
Clear Aligners
Invisalign aligners are made of a clear, plastic material that fits comfortably over your teeth. They are nearly invisible, making them an excellent choice for people who prefer not to have obvious metal brackets on their teeth. The aligners apply gentle pressure to teeth, gradually shifting them into their new position. Clear aligners are replaced weekly, making modifications to accommodate your changing dental progress.
Customised Treatment Plan
Every patient’s needs are unique, so Invisalign technicians create a personalised treatment plan for each person. During the consultation, the technician takes impressions and pictures of the patient’s mouth to create a 3D image. This image maps out the tooth movement required throughout the treatment. Once the treatment plan is created, the Invisalign aligners and instructions are sent back to the dentist for the patient.
Regular Check-ups
Attending check-ups every 6-8 weeks is necessary, depending on the dentist’s recommendation. During the check-ups, dentists monitor the tooth movement and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. It is important to wear Invisalign for at least 20-22 hours a day and avoid eating or drinking anything that may cause the aligners to stain or wear down. Patients are given new sets of clear aligners at each check-up. Treatment times vary depending on the severity of the patient’s misalignment, but Invisalign treatments usually last between 12-18 months.
Benefits of Invisalign
Discreet Appearance
One of the most significant benefits of Invisalign aligners over traditional braces is the invisibility of the former. Rather than being made from metal, Invisalign clear aligners are made of transparent, smooth plastic, which makes the treatment less noticeable when wearing them. So, if you’re worried about the looks of wearing braces, rest assured that you can straighten your teeth in the most discreet way possible. Invisalign aligners are ideal for anyone, including adults, who feel self-conscious if they must visit work or go out in public with traditional braces.
Comfortable Fit
Many wearers of traditional metal braces experience pain or discomfort because the metal brackets and wires tend to rub against their gums and lips, causing sores and irritation. However, this is not the case with Invisalign aligners customised to fit snugly on the teeth and gums. The smooth, clear plastic won’t produce any irritation or discomfort. Wearing Invisalign is so comfortable you might even forget you’re wearing them.
Removable Aligners
Invisalign aligners are removable, meaning you can remove them anytime you want to eat, brush your teeth or floss your teeth. This also means you can maintain better oral hygiene and avoid unnecessary problems.
With regular braces, you must be careful about what you eat because foods such as popcorn, candy, apples, and anything sticky can easily get caught in the brackets and wires.
With Invisalign, you won’t face any of these restrictions and can continue enjoying your favourite foods.
No Food Restrictions
You can eat whatever you want with Invisalign aligners. When you’re finished eating, you’ll need to brush your teeth and rinse your aligner in lukewarm water before putting it back on. With Invisalign, you can easily maintain good dental health and a perfect smile while eating your favourite meals.
Comparison with Traditional Braces
Appearance
One of the most significant benefits of Invisalign is its aesthetic appeal. Invisalign clear aligners are made of transparent plastic that is custom-made for your teeth. Therefore, they are much less noticeable than traditional metal braces. Many often report that their friends and colleagues were unaware that they had Invisalign. In contrast, regular braces are metal brackets glued to your teeth, connected by wires. These can not only stand out but also poke and irritate the inside of your mouth.
Comfort
Most people find them relatively comfortable after a few days of wearing Invisalign aligners. Unlike traditional braces, there are no wires or brackets to irritate the inside of your mouth. Invisalign aligners are made of a smooth plastic material that fits snugly over your teeth. The clear aligners gently pressure your teeth to guide them to their correct positions. You can also remove them when eating, which makes them much more comfortable.
Maintenance
Maintaining Invisalign clear aligners is relatively easy. As usual, you need to brush and floss your teeth every day. In addition, you must clean your aligners regularly with a soft-bristled toothbrush and warm water—no special products are required.
On the other hand, traditional braces require careful cleaning to avoid plaque and food debris build-up around the brackets.
Regular brushing and flossing are not enough to prevent gum disease, which could lead to tooth decay.
Cost
The cost of Invisalign treatments may vary depending on the severity of your teeth misalignment and how long you wear them. However, the cost of Invisalign aligners can be higher than regular braces. The initial consultation fee, which includes X-rays and other diagnostic tests, is also higher for Invisalign. However, many dental insurance plans may cover Invisalign treatments, so checking with your provider is always a good idea. Before deciding, you can speak to your dentist about the cost differences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Invisalign is an advanced clear aligner system that provides an excellent alternative to traditional metal braces. Clear aligners are almost invisible, more comfortable to wear than braces, and highly effective in realigning teeth. While Invisalign treatments cost more than conventional braces, they offer numerous benefits for patients seeking tooth movement and a perfect smile. Invisalign is an excellent option for adults and teenagers with moderate malocclusion who want to achieve straighter teeth. Contact our professional dentists at Beyond Infinity Dental on (02) 8806 3799 to schedule your first consultation!
References
Use and Care Instructions for your Invisalign Aligners
https://assets.ctfassets.net/y75jnaifzz4q/7niBLWjMLWLWK7LqtOhzT2/93b91508f142b1a607bd5239b865b3b5/Invisalign_Patient_IFU_207020_Rev_D_Clean.pdf
Invisalign Aligners and Aligner Chewies
https://theorthodonticspot.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Invisalign-Aligner-Instructions.pdf
