Invisalign Information

An Introduction To Invisalign

For those wondering what is Invisalign, it is an effective type of orthodontic treatment that makes use of clear, removable trays (called aligners) to straighten the patients teeth. These straightening trays or aligners are custom-made for every individual patient and work by gradually shifting the patients teeth into their proper straight positions. Invisalign is a popular alternative to traditional metal braces because the aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing. The treatment typically takes between 6 to 18 months, depending on the severity of the case. Invisalign is suitable for most people, but it’s important to consult with an orthodontist to determine if it’s the right treatment option for you.

What Is Involved With The Invisalign Process?

For those wondering how does Invisalign work, it is essentially a gradual alignment achieved by using a series of clear, removable aligners that are custom-made for each patient. The aligners are made of a comfortable, smooth plastic that is virtually invisible when worn. Each aligner is worn for a period of about 1 to 2 weeks before being replaced with the next one in the series.

The aligners are designed to gradually shift the teeth into their proper positions over time. The exact movements that the aligners will make are planned out in advance using 3D imaging technology, allowing the patient to see a virtual representation of their treatment plan before it even begins.

During treatment, the patient will wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, removing them only to eat, brush, and floss. As each aligner is replaced with the next one in the series, the teeth will gradually shift into their desired positions. Patients typically receive a new set of aligners every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on their individual treatment plan.

Throughout the treatment process, the patient will have regular checkups with their orthodontist to monitor their progress and ensure that the treatment is progressing as planned. Once treatment is complete, the patient will typically wear a retainer for a period of time to help maintain their newly aligned teeth.

Can you vape with Invisalign ?

It is not recommended to vape or smoke while wearing Invisalign aligners, as it can cause discoloration or damage to the aligners. Vaping or smoking can also affect oral health by increasing the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and other dental problems.

The heat and chemicals from vaping can cause the aligners to warp or become discolored, which can affect the fit and effectiveness of the treatment. In addition, the nicotine and other chemicals in vaping can cause staining or discoloration of the teeth, which can make it harder to achieve the desired results with Invisalign.

If you must vape or smoke, it’s best to remove the aligners and thoroughly rinse your mouth and the aligners with water before placing them back in your mouth. It’s important to follow the guidelines provided by your orthodontist to ensure that your Invisalign treatment progresses smoothly and effectively.

How to clean Invisalign ?

Cleaning your Invisalign aligners is an important part of maintaining good oral hygiene during treatment. We have listed below some tips on how to clean your Invisalign aligners:

1. Rinse the aligners with warm water every time you remove them to help remove any food particles or saliva.
2. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush the aligners with clear, anti-bacterial soap or mild dish soap. Avoid using toothpaste as it can be too abrasive and scratch the aligners.
3. Soak the aligners in a cleaning solution recommended by your orthodontist, such as the Invisalign Cleaning Crystals, once or twice a week to help remove any build-up or staining. Follow the instructions provided with the cleaning solution carefully.
4. Avoid using hot water to clean the aligners as it can cause them to warp or become misshapen.
5. Do not use mouthwash to clean the aligners as it can discolor them.
6. Always store the aligners in their case when they are not in your mouth to prevent them from being lost or damaged.

Following these simple steps can help keep your Invisalign aligners clean and in good condition throughout your treatment. It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing your teeth regularly and attending all scheduled check-ups with your orthodontist.

Is Invisalign Better Than Braces ?

Whether Invisalign is better than braces depends on your specific orthodontic needs and preferences. Both Invisalign and braces can effectively straighten teeth and improve oral health, but they differ in some ways that may make one option more appealing than the other.

Here are some factors to consider when comparing Invisalign to braces:

Appearance: Invisalign aligners are clear and virtually invisible, while braces are made of metal or ceramic brackets and wires that are more noticeable. If you are concerned about the appearance of your orthodontic treatment, Invisalign may be a better option.

Comfort: Invisalign aligners are made of smooth plastic and do not have any wires or brackets that can cause discomfort or irritation. Braces may require adjustments and can cause soreness or discomfort for the first few days after each appointment.

Treatment time: To properly understand the treatment time of any orthodontic treatment, the full and unique circumstances of the individual need to be understood, and in an evaluation of the strengths of different orthodontic treatments we compare the needs of the individual to determine if Invisalign can be faster than braces. Invisalign treatment can take less time than traditional braces, especially for mild to moderate orthodontic issues. However, severe or complex cases may require longer treatment with Invisalign.

Lifestyle: Invisalign aligners are removable, which means you can eat and drink what you want and brush and floss your teeth normally. Braces require dietary and oral hygiene restrictions, as well as regular adjustments from your orthodontist.

Cost: Invisalign cost and braces cost can vary depending on your location and specific treatment needs. In general, Invisalign may be more expensive than traditional braces.

During your initial consultation, your Invisalign dentist will determine the estimated length of treatment required to achieve your desired results with Invisalign.  There are particular advantages of using Invisalign and one of the best methods is Invisalign to close gaps in teeth and can do so remarkably quickly. Invisalign is not only suited to this type of alignment issue however, and many factors will be considered upon consultation to assess the treatment options and whether Invisalign vs Braces is the fastest treatment and most effective for your particular case.

In summary, Invisalign may be a better option for those who prioritise appearance, comfort, and lifestyle flexibility, while braces may be a better option for those with more complex orthodontic issues or who prefer a lower cost option. It is important to discuss your treatment options with an orthodontist to determine which option is best for you.