How Does Invisalign Work, And Is The Treatment Right For Me?

We’re pretty sure you’ve heard of Invisalign. It’s a modern alternative to metal braces that straighten teeth with clear aligners.

Unlike traditional metal braces, however, you probably haven’t seen Invisalign anywhere. How could you when Invisalign is practically invisible? The clue is in the name – “Invisalign.

So, how does Invisalign work? How can a virtually invisible device help you achieve your dream smile?

Our mini guide explains everything you need to know to ascertain whether Invisalign will work for you. Of course, you will need to visit your Invisalign dentist for their advice and guidance.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign treatment is an exceptionally discreet way to straighten teeth using advanced CAD/CAM technology.

Clear aligners can improve a smile by straightening teeth and achieving a more aligned bite. They can help people achieve their dream smiles and are minimally visible when worn.

Invisalign can treat a wide range of minor to moderate orthodontic problems, including:

• Crooked teeth
• Crowded or misaligned teeth
• An overbite, underbite, crossbite and open bite

Cutting-edge aligner technology provides orthodontic treatment to straighten teeth through custom-fitted clear aligners worn over the teeth like a mouthguard.

The dentist starts the process by taking images of your teeth with a 3D scanner. These images are then fed to a computer to assist in designing your aligners.

Specialised Invisalign computer software generates a series of sequential aligners or trays that gradually move your teeth into their correct position over time.

How Invisalign Aligners Move Your Teeth

Invisalign treatment uses the natural processes already happening in your mouth. The trays control compression and tension forces, manipulating them to reposition the teeth gently and slowly. In doing so, bone and cementum resorption occurs, depositing new bone to hold the teeth in their new position.

During various Invisalign treatment stages, controlled force is applied to different tooth areas. Simply put, each aligner moves specific teeth.

Typically, most people receive a new set of aligners every two weeks throughout their personalised treatment. Each new tray moves the teeth .25mm within the first three days.

While that may sound impressive, that figure represents the movement of the periodontal ligament, not the bone, in most cases.

The bone must move as the teeth change position because it holds them in place. Patients have to wear each set of aligners for two weeks because it takes up to 14 days for the ligament fibres to apply sufficient cementum to secure the bone in its new position.

How long do I Need to Wear the Invisalign Tray?

As you can imagine, maintaining your teeth’s new position can be difficult if you fail to wear your clear aligners for the recommended time each day. Not wearing the trays for the allotted time increases the risk of relapse or reverse tooth movement.

If this were to happen, it would lengthen the duration of Invisalign treatment and postpone the eagerly awaited reveal of your new smile.

For your Invisalign to produce the best results and for each set of aligners to work, it’s essential to wear them for the length recommended by your dentist —usually 20-22 hours each day.

To be safe, we recommend removing your aligners to eat and drink (anything other than water) and brushing and flossing your teeth. Please keep them in your mouth for the rest of the time.

How Long Does Invisalign Therapy Take?

Since each case is different, the duration of Invisalign treatment will vary from one patient to another. Each treatment plan is tailored to the needs of the patient. Ultimately, the length of treatment and the number of aligners will depend on how many dental conditions a patient has, i.e. crowded teeth, gapped teeth, etc.).

On average, Invisalign treatment takes between 12 and 18 months, although minor cases can achieve their desired results in as little as six months.

Is Invisalign Right for You?

After learning how Invisalign functions, you might need clarification on whether it’s the best choice; Invisalign offers many people a convenient, discreet solution. Still, it’s essential to consider a few factors before deciding.

• Lifestyle: Invisalign could be a great fit if you value a nearly invisible orthodontic solution and prefer not to have metal braces. However, you must diligently wear your aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours daily.
• Commitment: Invisalign requires responsibility. You’ll need to wear your aligners consistently and keep up with dental visits to ensure your treatment is on track.
• Dental Issues: While Invisalign can address various orthodontic concerns, it might not be the best option for severe misalignment or bite issues. Your Auburn dentist will evaluate your needs to determine if Invisalign is the best option.

Invisalign in Auburn

If you’re ready to explore whether Invisalign is right for you, the next step is to schedule a consultation with your Auburn dentist. They will examine your teeth, discuss your objectives, and create a treatment plan.

At My Local Dentists, we’re committed to helping you achieve your best smile. Our team is experienced in Invisalign treatment and will guide you through every step of the process.

Don’t wait any longer to take the first step toward a straighter, healthier smile.

Call (02) 8214 8999 or book online today and take the first step to your dream smile.

Visit us at Shop Q50, Auburn Central Shopping Centre, 57-59 Queen Street, Auburn.