Achieve great results, with virtually invisible orthodontics
Is it your desire to have straighter teeth, but you don’t want to deal with obvious metal braces?
Well the good news is that you may be a suitable patient for Invisalign. Invisalign can give you that beautiful smile you are searching for.
Invisalign is suitable for fixing minor to mild issues of crowding, spacing, crossbites, open bites, underbites, and overbites. For more serious cases, braces will more than likely be required, as clear aligners do have limitations.
What you need to know about Invisalign
For some people, Invisalign rhymes with clear aligners. This is due to Invisalign pioneering the business of clear aligners.
Invisalign aligner treatment involves a series of clear plastic trays which are used in sequence as your teeth shift. Each of these trays are slightly straighter than the previous tray to accommodate for the changes to your smile throughout the process.
Every two weeks you receive new trays to replace your current ones and continue your journey towards straightening your teeth into the ideal positions.
The best parts about Invisalign aligners is that they are invisible and there are absolutely NO bulky brackets, pesky wires or annoying rubber bands to deal with. This is why patients choose these aligners.
How does Invisalign process work?
The process begins with an initial consultation at Straight Orthodontics, an experienced Invisalign provider to determine whether Invisalign or another treatment will work for your smile.
During this appointment, our orthodontist will be able to answer any questions and queries regarding the treatment.
After the consultation we will perform a digital scan of your mouth to create a customised treatment journey, unique to your mouth! These 3D digital images help us make a map of your journey by fine tuning every tooth shift individually. This is seen as your own personalised roadmap towards straighter teeth!
And the best part is, we can show you exactly how your treatment will work and what exactly your finishing results may look like!
Once these scans are complete, the next step is creating your own custom aligners. Our orthodontist has an accurate 3D image of your teeth, which will be used to create perfectly fitting aligners over your teeth and along your gumline.
Your aligners will be made from Invisalign’s very own material called SmartTrack; a flexible plastic.
Invisalign aligners are examined to ensure they meet the high-quality standards, before being passed on to you, the patient.
At Straight Orthodontics, we will make sure your aligners fit well and that all your questions regarding your treatment process are answered, so that you can feel safe and comfortable.
There are also fewer orthodontal visits required than metal braces require.
The process is simple, easy and will have you on your way to achieving your dream smile!
How long does Invisalign take?
Your treatment time will ultimately depend on the severity of your issue. However generally Invisalign takes 12 to 24 months to straighten your smile.
For the first signs of change, some patients notice improvements as early as two weeks into treatment.
Advantages of Invisalign
Invisible
Invisalign is virtually invisible, as they are made from the clear plastic. This means it will be harder for people to see you are undergoing the treatment, especially perfect if you are self-conscious of clunky braces.
Removable
Can it get any better than clear? Well yes, Invisalign aligners are removable, meaning you have to take them out while eating and cleaning. This helps you keep good oral hygiene and makes the aligners easier to clean too.
This also means you can remove Invisalign aligners while attending important events if necessary or while taking photographs if you like.
Comfortable
Invisalign clear aligners are as comfortable as it gets. It’s not even a question whether or not clear aligners are more comfortable than traditional braces, as clear aligners have no metal brackets or wires.
Pain and discomfort is normal at the beginning of the treatment, however, it should pass after two days. Begin your Invisalign journey with Straight Orthodontics. If you have any questions or would like to book in for a consultation, please click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, clear aligners that gently guide your teeth into their new position over time. Each set of aligners is worn for about one to two weeks before moving to the next stage. At Straight Orthodontics, your treatment is planned using advanced digital scans, so you can see the expected outcome from the start. The aligners are removable, which makes it easier to eat, brush, and floss compared to fixed appliances, while still achieving a carefully planned result.
Will Invisalign affect my speech?
Some patients notice a slight lisp when they first start wearing Invisalign, but this usually improves within a few days as your tongue adjusts. At Straight Orthodontics, we guide you through this transition and provide tips to help your speech return to normal quickly. Most people adapt so well that others don’t even notice they’re wearing aligners.
Can Invisalign stain or discolour?
Yes, Invisalign aligners can stain if exposed to coffee, tea, wine, or coloured drinks while worn. At Straight Orthodontics, we recommend removing your aligners before eating or drinking and rinsing them regularly to keep them clear. With proper care, your aligners will remain almost invisible throughout your treatment.
Is Invisalign or Clear aligners painful?
Invisalign or clear aligners may cause some mild discomfort during the adjustment period, but they are generally less painful than traditional braces. The discomfort is temporary and varies from person to person.
Can I switch from braces to Invisalign?
Yes, in many cases, you can transition from braces to Invisalign, though it depends on your individual treatment needs. Straight Orthodontics will evaluate your progress and determine whether switching is suitable. Sometimes patients start with braces for complex movements and then finish with Invisalign to fine-tune alignment. This combination approach can offer both precision and flexibility. If you’re considering making the switch, a consultation will help outline the most effective path to complete your treatment successfully.
Can both adults and kids use Invisalign?
Invisalign is suitable for use by both adults and children, but in the case of young children, your dental provider may suggest traditional braces due to their age and ability to maintain the orthodontic aligners.
How often do I need to wear the aligners?
To ensure the effectiveness of the Invisalign/clear aligner treatment, it is recommended to wear the aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours per day. You should only remove them for eating, drinking (except for water), brushing, and flossing. Consistent and full-time wear is crucial for the aligners to exert the necessary pressure on your teeth to move them into their desired positions. If the aligners are not worn as prescribed, it can slow down the progress of the treatment and may not achieve the desired results within the estimated timeframe. Always follow your dentist or orthodontist’s instructions regarding wearing and caring for your aligners to ensure the best possible outcome.
Is Invisalign better than traditional braces?
Compared to traditional metal braces, Invisalign aligners are generally more preferred by individuals due to their inconspicuous appearance and comfortable fit. In addition, Invisalign treatment often takes less time than traditional braces, and patients do not have to deal with the discomfort of sharp metal components poking the inside of their mouths. Furthermore, emergency visits to the dentist due to broken wires and brackets are less common with Invisalign.
Can I eat and drink while wearing Invisalign?
You should remove your aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water. This helps prevent food from getting trapped and protects your aligners from damage. At Straight Orthodontics, we’ll explain how to care for your aligners so you can continue enjoying your meals and drinks without disrupting your treatment.
How long does Invisalign take to straighten teeth?
The duration of Invisalign treatment varies depending on the severity of the case but typically lasts around 6 months for mild cases and between 12 and 18 months for moderate to severe cases.
How does Invisalign differ from traditional braces?
Traditional braces use brackets and wires fixed to the teeth to gradually move them. Invisalign, on the other hand, relies on clear, removable aligners that are almost invisible when worn. At Straight Orthodontics, patients often appreciate the flexibility Invisalign offers, especially being able to remove aligners for meals or special occasions. While both options are effective, Invisalign can be more comfortable and less noticeable, making it a popular choice for those wanting a discreet treatment alternative without compromising results.
What types of cases can Invisalign and Clear aligners treat?
Invisalign and clear aligners can treat cases of crowded teeth, spacing issues, overbite, underbite, crossbite, mild midline shifts, and certain open bites. However, it may not be suitable for severe orthodontic cases that require extensive tooth movement or jaw realignment. Always consult a dentist or orthodontist for personalised recommendations.