Invisalign FAQs

Learn more about Invisalign teeth straightening

The world’s leading clear, teeth aligner system

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a series of clear aligners that are almost invisible, can easily be removed, and are 100% custom made to fit your teeth. As you replace your aligners every couple of weeks, your teeth will be gradually re-positioned until you achieve your smile goal of straight teeth.

Teeth straightening no longer needs to be a big deal. Traditional methods of correcting gaps, crooked teeth and crowded mouths used to be the fixed metal brace. Invisalign is a clear aligner that doesn’t use wires or brackets, and has been designed to fit into your lifestyle.

What Are The Benefits Of Invisalign?

Invisalign is a clear aligner system that are nearly invisible to the eye. Your friends & family may not even notice you straightening your teeth. They will blend into your life seamlessly.

They are removable and are very easy to take out and put back in. You will have the flexibility to eat and drink anything you want during your treatment. They won’t have any impact on your oral hygiene as you can also take them out to brush and floss your teeth.

There are no fixed wires or brackets to deal with, which means you will have to visit the dentist less for adjustment appointments.

You can see a virtual mock up of your completed treatment prior to accepting!

Is This A New Way To Straighten Teeth?

Invisalign is the modern way to straighten teeth but has now been around for many years. With the evolution of Align Technology’s 3D computer technology and aligner customisation, Invisalign can be used to treat even a wider range of straightening complaints. The ClinCheck software is revolutionizing the market as it allows you to see your treatment from the start to finish, before you have even begun treatment.

How Long Has Invisalign Been Going?

Align Technology Inc., the company that manufactures Invisalign, was founded in 1997.

How Old Is The Technology Behind Invisalign?

Dr H.D Kiesling was the first pioneer who saw the potential to harness technology in the modern age to use a series of tooth positioners (aligners) to straighten teeth instead of traditional braces. This was back in 1945. Align technology came along and made his vision a reality, by harnessing the very latest in computer technology to produce a system that can make gradual and predictable tooth movements until your teeth are straight.

How Many Patients Are Being Treated By Invisalign?

There has been around 6 million patients who have had Invisalign, and this number is growing daily!

Where Is Invisalign Available?

Invisalign has expanded into over 45 countries, including, US, Canada, Europe, China, Japan, Asia Pacific, Latin America and the Middle East.

How Much Does Invisalign Cost?

Just like other methods of teeth straightening, the cost of Invisalign will depend on how complex your case is, and how long it will take to correct. The more time that is required (and subsequent aligners), the cost will be greater. The cost is seen as being comparable to traditional fixed braces.

If you have minor teeth straightening requirements that requires less aligners to correct your teeth, your treatment plan will be less than more complex cases.

To get an accurate price for your case, an accredited Invisalign dentist will assess your teeth to give you a definitive treatment plan. The UK prices for Invisalign (full) generally sit between the £3,000 – £4,500 bracket (depending on complexity).

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign utilises a series of aligners to gradually reposition your teeth until the desired result. Each aligner is slightly different to the last. One of the main differences to other types of orthodontic treatment is the fact that your case will be planned to the final result (and visible) through align technology 3D imaging software. This is great for patients to see prior to accepting treatment so you know what to expect!

What Are Invisalign Aligners Made Of?

Invisalign aligners are made from a strong medical grade thermoplastic material, manufactured from the patented align technology. The aligners look like clear trays and are custom made to fit over your teeth.

What Is The Minimum Age Of A Patient That A Doctor Can Treat With Invisalign?

Invisalign can be used to treat both teenagers and the majority of adults with malocclusion issues. If you would like to find out your suitability, please do not hesitate to book your free consultation.

How Often Must I See My Invisalign Dentist Once I Have Started My Treatment?

Because Invisalign uses a series of aligners to straighten teeth you will typically only need to see your dentist every 4 to 6 weeks for a quick review, and to get your next series of aligners. Compared to traditional braces, this can mean less visits to the dentis, with less time spent during the appointments as well.

How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?

This will be dependent on your case and how complex it is. This can also be seen as comparable to traditional braces. Treatment times can vary from 3 to 18 months. During your consultation your dentist will be able to give you more information relating to your case.

Is Invisalign Painful?

In the initial stages of wearing Invisalign you may experience minor discomfort or notice the aligners. This is normal and the feeling of pressure will go as you get used to wearing them. At the start of each aligner you may notice this pressure and all it means is the aligners are working. But the good news is you don’t have to worry about brackets or wires prodding into your mouth.

Does Invisalign Work On Overbites?

Invisalign can be used to treat overbites in both adults and teenage patients. Consult with your Invisalign dentist so they can assess if your eligible to have Invisalign.

Are Bridges A Factor In Invisalign Treatment?

Bridges are a type of restoration that link two or more teeth together in your mouth. They will have significant resistance to tooth movement and your Invisalign dentists will assess if this will be a factor on your treatment.

Are Crowns A Factor In Invisalign Treatment?

Crowns are the visible parts of our teeth and are used as dental restorations to repair broken down teeth. Crowns are not usually a factor in Invisalign treatment but the dentist will carefully assess your suitability for treatment.

Can Invisalign Close Gaps?

Yes, spaces are generally very easy to close with Invisalign. During your visualisation you will be able to see your finished result prior to even starting treatment.

Will TMJ Affect My Invisalign Treatment?

The TMJ is our temporomandibular (jaw) joint. If you suffer with TMJ issues you may experience a variety of problems than include headaches, jaw ache, clicky jaw etc. TMJ issues can be made worse by orthodontics and Invisalign, some cases can improve, and some remain the same. During the assessment for Invisalign our dentists will check the TMJ to assess the suitability for Invisalign.

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