We need to talk about Invisalign.

Heralded across the world of dentistry by professionals and patients alike, Invisalign is being touted as the best and most flexible way to achieve a straighter smile. And we agree! But with more and more patients coming forward and asking for Invisalign teeth braces and support in building a Hollywood-worthy smile, we thought it was time to cover the specifics and the things that patients need to know before committing.

What is Invisalign and How Does it Work?

Invisalign is an innovative solution to malocclusion and misalignment that straightens the teeth without the need for a fixed brace with metal brackets and a connecting wire.

While training straightening systems require the use of orthodontic intervention and often uncomfortable and limiting fixed braces, Invisalign is an alternative measure for adults, which gradually pushes the teeth into a straighter position.

The benefits of Invisalign make it a popular solution with adults from all walks of life. With the aligners able to be removed for eating and cleaning, Invisalign puts oral health and hygiene front of mind. What’s more, the design of the aligners is such that they blend in against the teeth. A clear plastic substance is used to make the aligners, which sit tight against the teeth and gradually move them into place.

Throughout the course of treatment, the patient’s aligner will be switched every few weeks to ensure the teeth continue shifting in position and straightening up. Once complete, a final retainer is provided for long term maintenance.

The Importance of Patient Commitment

The thing that patients most favour about Invisalign is the flexibility and the fact that aligners can be removed as required for cleaning and eating. But what this also means is that individual patient commitment is integral to the success of the treatment.

Patients need to be able to commit to the maintenance of good oral health through Invisalign treatment and need to wear the aligner for at least 22 hours of every 24 hour full day period. They also need to be able to attend regular check-ups throughout treatment and for the provision of the next aligner in the set, keeping the teeth moving and preventing them from settling in each position.

Are You a Good Candidate for Invisalign?

As well as the above commitment needs for each patient, patients who are considering this treatment will need to be able to fund it themselves. With comprehensive packages available at the Essex Smile Centre, which include whitening as well as aligning treatment, we make Invisalign as accessible as possible; however, this is not a treatment that is covered by NHS dental funding.

Finally, Invisalign is not painful and should not cause discomfort, but adjusting to the aligners can take time. Patients are always able to get in touch with a dentist at the Essex Smile Centre if they have concerns or questions about the process.