Invisalign®

About Invisalign®

Straight teeth are healthy and beautiful. Our dentition is designed to hold 32 teeth. For good oral health and high chewing efficiency, the teeth should be perfectly positioned and well aligned. When there are errors in positions of teeth, the chewing efficiency reduces and there are several oral health problems that may arise. Invisalign® is a revolutionary orthodontic system that has changed the way malocclusion can be treated. As an alternative to dental braces, Invisalign® has introduced a more ‘invisible’ way of straightening teeth. With the help of Invisalign® we have successfully created healthy and beautiful smiles for many of our patients from Sandgate, Queensland and surrounding communities.

What is malocclusion and how does Invisalign® treat the condition?

The manner in which the upper and lower teeth come together in a bite is called occlusion. Orthodontics is the study of the position of teeth and bite and their relationship with oral health. When there are errors in the position of teeth, they do not come together properly in a bite. This condition is called malocclusion. This condition can affect oral health and the aesthetics of the smile.

Following are some of the problems caused from malocclusion.

• Unaesthetic smile due to crowded teeth or big gaps between the teeth
• It becomes difficult to maintain oral hygiene; hence there are more chances of dental infection
• May cause teeth to wear more
• Complex conditions of malocclusion can lead to TMJ problems and poor sleep quality

Invisalign® has a series of aligners that are designed to apply gentle and controlled force on teeth to move them in the planned direction. The system can be used to treat most of the malocclusion conditions. Our dentist performs a thorough oral examination to check the complexity of the orthodontic problem before recommending Invisalign®. The aligners are made of plastic. They are comfortable to wear and can be removed when cleaning teeth and eating. The treatment may take about 12-24 months on average, some milder cases can be performed quicker. During the course, the teeth are moved in various stages as mapped by the dentist. This straightens teeth and improves the bite.

Invisalign® treatment procedure

The treatment with Invisalign® system involves the use of sophisticated technological equipment and procedures in different stages. The first phase is where teeth are examined for decay. Such conditions may not be suitable for Invisalign® treatment. Our dentist checks the complexity of the orthodontic problem and tells patients if an Invisalign® system can bring about the desired changes. X-rays, images and impressions of teeth are taken and 3D digital image of the dentition is created using computer imaging technology. This digital image helps our dentist map the movement of teeth. A preview of expected results is provided to patients. This helps us in making necessary changes in the treatment plan as per the feedback from the patient. The Invisalign® aligners are fabricated in the lab as per the treatment plan. The lab uses high-end precision equipment to fabricate aligners. Patients should wear the aligner for about 22 hours each day. Each pair of aligners should be replaced with the following pair every two weeks. Patients should visit our office on average every 6 weeks to check the progress of treatment. On successful completion of the treatment, patients will get a much improved beautiful smile.

Are you unhappy with your smile? Do you want to improve the alignment of your teeth? Make an appointment and visit our office at Sandgate, Queensland for an Invisalign® consultation. Our treatment may help you get an attractive smile.

Please visit www.invisalign.com.au or for more information

Frequently asked questions

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is proven technology designed to give you the smile you’ve always wanted, without the pain and anxiety associated with metal braces. Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually move your teeth. You wear a set of aligners for about two weeks, removing them only to eat, drink, brush and floss. As you replace each set of aligners with the next in the series, your teeth will gradually move until they reach the position your doctor has prescribed for you. The average treatment time is about a year. Contact your Orthodontist to find out if Invisalign is an option for you.

Will Invisalign® aligners be visible when I wear them?

The aligners are made of smooth BPA free plastic and are transparent. They are ‘virtually’ invisible when they are fit over teeth and hence they can go unnoticed when you wear them. You can see them when looking at yourself in the mirror, but you will be surprised that most people won’t notice you are wearing them.

Do Invisalign® aligners cause discomfort or pain?

Each pair of Invisalign® aligner may cause slight discomfort during the first few days of use. This is because the aligners are designed to move teeth by application of pressure. After few days the discomfort reduces and the teeth feel better.

Can all orthodontic cases be treated using Invisalign® system?

Invisalign® system is designed to treat a wide-range of orthodontic issues including cross bite, open bite, over bite and under bite. However, there may be a limit with respect to the complexity of the case. Our dentist performs thorough oral evaluation to tell you if your case is treatable and whether orthodontist referral is required.

How long does the Invisalign® treatment take?

Depending of the changes required, the Invisalign® treatment can take from as little as 3 months to over 2 years to complete.

Can I eat food with the aligners on?

Invisalign® aligners should be removed when eating or drinking anything apart from water. The food particles may enter the space between the aligners and the teeth and stain the appliance.

What is the care that needs to be taken when living with Invisalign® aligners?

Invisalign® aligners should be worn for at least 22 hours of a day. They should be removed when eating and when cleaning teeth. It is important to brush and floss after every meal since any food particles that get stuck over the teeth or in between them can increase the risk of infection when wearing the aligners.

Are Invisalign® aligners breakable?

Invisalign® aligners are made of plastic and yes they are breakable. Patients can keep the aligners in a case during the time they are not in use. FYI: Dogs love them!