Invisalign has dramatically advanced the field of orthodontics, offering a clear and comfortable way to straighten your teeth. This innovative treatment uses custom-made clear plastic aligners to gradually move your teeth into place. At With U Dental, Melbourne, Invisalign is a popular choice for both teens and adults. Read on to find out why.
A Brief History of Invisalign
From Retainers to Innovation
Invisalign’s story began with a Stanford student, Zia Chishti, who envisioned a better way to straighten teeth after experiencing discomfort with retainers. This idea led to the creation of clear aligners, marking the start of a new era in orthodontics.
Founding Align Technology
In 1997, Chishti co-founded Align Technology with Kelsey Wirth. Their goal was to revolutionise orthodontic treatment using computer-aided design and manufacturing to produce custom clear aligners.
Invisalign Takes Off
Invisalign gained early market acceptance, quickly growing in popularity due to its convenience and aesthetic appeal. Patients embraced the new option, driving significant growth for Align Technology.
Advancing Technology
Over the years, Align Technology has continuously improved Invisalign. The introduction of SmartTrack material and advanced software has enhanced the effectiveness and comfort of the aligners, solidifying Invisalign’s position as a leader in orthodontic innovation.
What are Invisalign Aligners?
Invisalign teeth aligners are clear, removable plastic trays designed to straighten teeth. They are custom-made for each patient using 3D imaging technology and a medical-grade TPU called SmartTrack.
Each aligner gradually shifts your teeth into their new position over time. As an alternative to traditional metal braces, these aligners offer a more discreet and comfortable orthodontic treatment option.
How Do Invisalign Aligners Work?
The process begins with 3D imaging and dental impressions. Next, your dentist will use ClinCheck software to visualise your entire smile transformation before starting treatment. Your dentist uses this information to create a personalised treatment plan.
Your customised treatment plan will include a number of slightly different aligners. You will wear each set of Invisalign aligners for about 2 weeks to gently shift your teeth into their new position. As you progress through the series of clear aligners, your teeth move gradually until they reach their final alignment.
The Invisalign Orthodontic Treatment Process
1. Initial Consultation
The first step is visiting your dentist, who will do a full examination and let you know if you’re a suitable candidate for Invisalign. If yes, you’ll move on to the next step. If not, your dentist will advise you on alternatives, like traditional metal or ceramic braces.
2. Creating Your Smile
Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and show you the expected outcome of your Invisalign treatment using the ClinCheck software. Once you’re happy with the expected result, our dentist will send your impressions over to a lab to create your aligners.
When your first set of aligners arrives, you’ll go back in for a fitting. If all is well, you’ll start your Invisalign orthodontist treatment right there and then! You’ll get a few aligners at a time, so you only need to come back to our dental clinic every few months.
3. Wearing Your Aligners
For the best treatment results, wear your Invisalign aligners for 20 to 22 hours every day. You can take them off to eat and clean them, but keep them for the rest of the day. You’ll switch to a new aligner every week or two.
4. Regular Check-ups
You’ll only be given a few aligners at a time, so you’ll need to go back to your dentist every 5 to 8 weeks to get new ones. Don’t neglect this, or you won’t be progressing towards your smile goal.
5. Refinement Phase
You may find that you need more aligners than originally planned. If this is necessary, your dentist will take more impressions and send them off for more aligners to be made.
6. Life After Invisalign
Once your Invisalign orthodontic treatment is over, you’ll be given a retainer. Your dentist will explain when and for how long to wear it, so follow their recommendations for the best results.
How Long Does Treatment Take?
Invisalign orthodontic treatment typically takes between 6 and 18 months. However, the length of treatment varies depending on the person and the complexity of the case.
Who is Eligible for Invisalign?
Invisalign is suitable for anyone with mild to moderate misalignment. This includes issues like crowding, gaps between teeth, overbites, underbites, and cross bites. It can effectively address these concerns, providing a straighter smile without traditional braces.
Both teens and adults can benefit from Invisalign technology. Invisalign Teen is a specialised treatment that caters to the unique needs of younger patients, while adults can benefit from the discreet and convenient treatment that fits their lifestyle.
Who Might Not Be Suitable
If you have severe orthodontic issues, such as significant tooth rotation, large gaps, or complex bite problems, you might not be a good candidate for Invisalign. Also, individuals with dental implants, dental bridges, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders may need alternative treatments.
Advantages of Invisalign Aligners
- Aesthetically Pleasing: Virtually invisible for a confident new smile
- Enhanced Comfort: No irritation from metal brackets and wires
- Improved Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss with ease thanks to removable aligners
- Convenient Treatment: Fewer dental visits compared to braces
Invisalign Aligners Drawbacks
- The Cost Factor: Invisalign is often more expensive than braces. Some providers, like With U Dental, offer payment plans to make it more accessible, but not all.
- The Importance of Discipline: For Invisalign to work, they need to be worn regularly. If you can’t commit to wearing them for at least 20 hours a day, you may need a different alternative.
- Potential Discomfort: Your teeth are moving, which can be sore or uncomfortable.
Invisalign vs Braces: A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Invisalign | Traditional Braces | |
| Appearance | Almost invisible | Highly visible |
| Comfort | No sharp edges to snag on | Brackets and wires can hurt |
| Removable? | Yes | Not until the end |
| Treatment Time | 6 to 18 months | 1 to 3 years |
| Cost | More expensive | More affordable |
How Much Does Invisalign Cost?
Invisalign treatment generally costs between $4,200 and $10,700. The final cost depends on how complex your case is, the number of aligners needed, and any extra procedures needed.
Always ask your dentist about payment plans. Many providers offer payment plans to help mitigate the cost of this cutting-edge technology.
How to Care for Your Invisalign Aligners
Proper care is essential to ensure your Invisalign aligners stay clean, clear, and effective throughout your treatment. Here’s how to keep them in the best condition possible.
Cleaning
Every time you remove your aligners, rinse them with lukewarm water to clean them and prevent bacteria from building up. Brush them with a soft-bristled brush and an antibacterial soap.
Avoid using toothpaste. You can soak them in a solution of 50/50 vinegar and warm water while you’re eating.
Handling
If possible, always wash your hands before handling the aligners, to prevent accidentally adding bacteria to the aligner. Remove and insert them carefully to prevent damage to the aligners and yourself!
Storage
Store your aligners in the provided case whenever you’re not wearing them. Don’t wrap them in tissues or napkins, as they can easily get lost or damaged.
Eating and Drinking
Remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. Hot drinks can warp them. Don’t forget to floss!
Invisalign Orthodontic Treatment FAQs
Will Wearing Invisalign Aligners Affect My Speech?
Some people are affected more than others, but most adjust quickly to the feeling of the aligners and do not experience permanent changes in their speech.
Do Invisalign Aligners Hurt?
Just like regular braces, Invisalign treatment may cause some soreness or discomfort in the first few days after starting a new set of aligners. This happens as your teeth adjust to the new pressure that moves them into place. It’s nothing to worry about – it’s simply a sign that your teeth are shifting as planned.
Can You Stain Your Aligners?
Yes. Drinking coloured beverages with your aligners in, such as wine, tea, or coffee, will stain your aligners. Strongly coloured foods like beetroot can also stain them. It’s best to take your aligners out when drinking anything other than water.
