Invisalign® has revolutionised dental treatment by offering a discreet and effective way to straighten teeth using clear aligners.
If you’re new to Invisalign® or still contemplating whether it’s the right choice for you, chances are you have lots of questions.
We’ve put together a Q&A with Dr Kinnari Patel, our Invisalign® expert to help you make the right choice.
We’ve also got some exciting news for 2024 – our highly popular Invisalign® Open Day is back on Saturday 27th January, 9am – 4pm, where you can access exclusive Open Day offers.
Find out more and register your interest here.
What is Invisalign®?
Invisalign® aligners are ultra-thin, transparent plastic trays designed to be worn on your teeth for approximately twenty hours a day.
Each week or so, you receive a fresh set of aligners that gradually tighten, facilitating the movement of your teeth. Their discreet appearance sets them apart from traditional braces, making them an ideal choice for people seeking an effective tooth straightening solution.
How Long Does Invisalign® Take?
In general, Invisalign® can achieve teeth straightening results in as little as three months, although the specific time frame varies from person to person. While some cases may take slightly longer, the majority of people can expect to see noticeable results in six months.
Who is suitable for Invisalign® treatment and who might not be?
Determining your eligibility for Invisalign® treatment is best done during a consultation in our clinic.
In most instances, Invisalign® can effectively address various dental issues, including correcting misaligned bites as well as creating a beautiful smile. To explore your specific options and receive personalised guidance, we encourage you to schedule a consultation. Taking advantage of our Open Day on Saturday 27th January is an ideal time to book a consultation.
How can I maintain good oral health whilst wearing aligners?
One of the big advantages of Invisalign® clear aligners over conventional fixed braces, is that they can be removed to facilitate oral hygiene. A helpful tip is to keep a small toothbrush and toothpaste handy. Brushing your teeth before reinserting your aligners is good practice.
Additionally, maintaining a regular flossing routine and using an electric toothbrush can be beneficial. If you’d like professional guidance and care for your teeth, our friendly dental therapists, Emily or Suzanne, will be available to assist you during your visits.
What are the benefits of Invisalign® over traditional braces?
Patients frequently report a significantly higher level of comfort with Invisalign® compared to traditional metal braces, which can sometimes cause discomfort or irritation to the gums.
Invisalign® aligners also simplify oral hygiene since they don’t have the same trapping effect that traditional braces can pose, making it easier to clean teeth effectively.
Of course one of the major benefits of Invisalign® aligners is that they are virtually invisible, which adds to their overall appeal.
They can also have a positive impact on gum health.
How often should you wear Invisalign® aligners and can you take them off for special occasions?
Typically, it’s recommended to wear Invisalign® aligners for a minimum of twenty hours a day, allowing for removal during meals or when consuming anything other than water. While I often encourage wearing them for twenty-two hours daily to maintain the desired alignment schedule we can certainly make adjustments for special occasions if needed.
Are there any dietary restrictions while undergoing Invisalign® treatment?
There are no specific dietary restrictions with Invisalign®, so you can enjoy your favourite foods and drinks without concern.
Can you whiten your teeth whilst wearing aligners or should you wait until after treatment?
I generally recommend achieving your desired teeth straightening results before considering teeth whitening.
This allows the whitening solution to reach all areas effectively. However, if you have a special occasion on the horizon and wish to touch up your teeth’s whiteness, you can indeed proceed with whitening while wearing your aligners.
How often do I need to visit the clinic during Invisalign® treatment?
Usually I see people every four to six weeks to make sure their teeth are moving like they should be and the treatment is being effective.
Do you need to wear a retainer after Invisalign® treatment?
Yes, I tell all my patients that an orthodontic treatment such as Invisalign® is a long term commitment.
Since our teeth have a natural tendency to shift over time, it’s important to wear retainers consistently, ideally every night, even after completing your Invisalign® treatment.
Closing Thoughts
We hope our Q&A with Dr Kinnari has been helpful and answered some of the questions you may have had about Invisalign®.
If you’re considering Invisalign® treatment, now is the time to get in touch!
