It is common for patients to be cautious or uncomfortable about the idea of wearing braces, with many concerned about how it may impact their perception in society. Invisalign offers the next best solution.
At Oxford House Dental Practice, we use Invisalign® a revolutionary orthodontic treatment system that works in stages, using a series of bespoke clear aligners that help to rotate your teeth gently, gradually straightening them.
It’s an excellent choice for anyone who wants straighter teeth without wearing traditional metal braces. The process is as follows:
Assessment – First, you will see your dentist for a thorough assessment to ensure you are a suitable candidate for Invisalign™ treatment. Your dentist will then take a 3D image of your mouth using our advanced iTero scanning technology and Clincheck software. The technology will provide you with a visual representation of how you can expect your teeth to look after treatment, enabling you to approve the plan before you go ahead. The dentist will then work out your prescription and send it away to the Invisalign® laboratory, where a technician will produce your range of bespoke-made clear aligners.
Treatment – Within a few weeks, your aligners will be ready. You will wear them 20-22 hours a day, switching to the next aligner in the series every two weeks to progress your treatment, gently pulling your teeth into a more aesthetically pleasing position. You will have check-ups with your dentist every four to six weeks throughout the treatment phase.
Retention – Once your Invisalign® treatment is complete, your dentist will usually recommend you wear a retainer to prevent your teeth from relapsing into their original position. We can offer you a removable retainer that is equally as discreet as the Invisalign® system itself.also
Invisalign® FAQs
How is Invisalign® different from traditional braces?
Many patients seek orthodontic care due to the discretion and flexibility of Invisalign®.
Invisalign® aligners are made from a highly durable, clear plastic material that provides a far more discreet alternative to traditional braces. However, the orthodontic process is very similar. Switching to each new aligner in the series has the same effect as tightening the wires on a set of standard braces, advancing the treatment.
One of the greatest benefits of Invisalign® is that the aligners are removable, unlike braces, which are a permanent fixture in the mouth. Though you will need to wear your Invisalign® aligners for most of the day and night, you can remove them to clean and during eating, drinking, and brushing.
Am I suitable for Invisalign®?
We can treat a wide variety of orthodontic issues with Invisalign®. These include overcrowding, underbites, overbites, crossbites, and overall misalignment of the teeth.
How long does Invisalign® take to work?
The duration of your treatment will largely depend on the initial degree of misalignment and the results you want to achieve. Your dentist may be able to give you a fairly accurate idea of how long you can expect your treatment to take, but on average, Invisalign® treatment lasts between 12 to 24 months.
Does the treatment hurt?
As Invisalign® doesn’t aggravate the soft tissues in your mouth like a fixed appliance can, you shouldn’t experience any pain or irritation during your treatment.
However, you may feel slight discomfort after first commencing the treatment or switching to a new aligner. This should subside as soon you become accustomed to the new aligner.
How do I clean my Invisalign® aligners?
Keeping your aligners clean is easy. Simply remove them and brush them with a normal toothbrush before rinsing them off with lukewarm water. You can also use the Invisalign® cleaning kit provided in your starter packet.
How much does Invisalign® cost?
The cost of Invisalign® treatment can vary massively from patient to patient. The more complex your case, the more aligner trays you will need. Treatment starts at £1,500 for mild cases. Your Milton Keynes dentist can provide an estimate of the costs involved during your assessment phase.
Why do I need to wear a retainer?
After any orthodontic treatment, the periodontal ligament — the connective tissue that attaches your teeth to the surrounding bone — is very soft and pliable. Over time, these tissues can pull your teeth back into their original position. A retainer prevents this from occurring, so it is vital you wear it to avoid undoing your progress.
In most cases, you will need to wear a retainer full-time for up to 12 months, followed by overnight wear on an indefinite basis.
If this helped you understand more about Invisalign, and you want to find out what treatment would be best for you, then get in touch!
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