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Posts Tagged ‘invisalign’

Is Invisalign right for you?

Monday, January 9th, 2023

Selecting the right orthodontic treatment option for fixing one’s crooked teeth is undoubtedly among the significant decisions one makes in life. That is why, orthodontic treatment must be chosen after thorough research and planning. If you are thinking of getting your teeth straightened, you may be presented with various options, such as braces and clear aligners. However, removable clear aligners are becoming popular due to their inconspicuousness, ease of use, and comfort. 

Naturally, removable aligners are the options patients consider for their orthodontic treatment. If you are also an Invisalign aligner, you might wonder whether they are the right option. But don’t worry; this blog will answer all your questions. So, continue reading to learn more about clear aligners and whether you are a suitable candidate. 

Does Invisalign work?

Another question that patients routinely ask their dentists is, “does Invisalign really work?”. The answer is yes; Invisalign aligners are effective in treating a variety of orthodontic issues, including tooth crowding, misalignment, and over-spacing. Invisalign comprises a system of removable and transparent aligners that are worn over the teeth. Each aligner set is designed to move your teeth in the desired direction. So, you can get Invisalign aligners for your treatment without any hesitation. 

How can Invisalign braces improve your smile?

The purpose of wearing Invisalign aligners is to re-align the teeth and close gaps. Invisalign aligners gradually move the teeth towards optimal alignment. This way, each aligner set will bring you one step closer to an attractive and balanced smile. Once you worn all the aligners, all your teeth will be aligned properly, and you will observe a significant improvement in your smile and facial aesthetics. 

What are the advantages of Invisalign?

Invisalign aligners offer several advantages over traditional braces. Their most important benefit is their inconspicuousness; these aligners are made of a transparent, flexible polymer that makes them comfortable to wear. More importantly, this allows them to become virtually invisible when worn. Hence, they won’t affect one’s smile when worn in public gatherings. Another advantage of Invisalign aligners is that they allow you to eat all your favourite foods as they are removable. Finally, you can maintain optimal oral hygiene with Invisalign aligners, as you can remove them before brushing or flossing. 

What are the pros and cons of Invisalign and traditional braces?

Compared to traditional braces, Invisalign aligners offer the following benefits:

On the other hand, there are certain drawbacks of Invisalign aligners compared to traditional braces:

  • More expensive than braces
  • Not suitable for treating extremely complex or complicated cases
  • Not suitable non-compliant patients

How long does the Invisalign treatment take?

The treatment times with Invisalign aligners to fix crooked teeth depend on various factors, such as the severity of the underlying issue, the patient’s age, and, more importantly, the dentist’s skill. However, Invisalign aligners can fix mild to moderate orthodontic issues within 6-8 months. On the other hand, more complicated issues require 

What are the key benefits of Invisalign as an adult?

Invisalign aligners are particularly beneficial for adults. How? First, you can wear them to important meetings, interviews, and even dates, without worrying about them being visible or affecting your smile. Secondly, they are much more comfortable than traditional braces. Finally, you can eat all your favourite foods, and your aligners will not affect your busy schedule, unlike metal braces. 

Is it possible to treat crooked teeth with Invisalign?

Invisalign aligners can treat various orthodontic issues, including tooth spacing, overcrowding, crooked teeth, and mild bite issues. Your dentist will let you know if Invisalign aligners are suitable for you after a thorough clinical examination. 

Does Invisalign hurt?

Braces wearers often complain that their teeth hurt after wearing braces. Fortunately, Invisalign aligners are not as painful as braces. However, they will cause some amount of tooth pain and discomfort. This is because the pain is due to the movement of the teeth within the jawbone. You may feel pain and discomfort when you switch to a new aligner set, but it will go away after a few days, and you will get used to them. 

Can you wear braces and Invisalign at the same time?

Braces and Invisalign do the same job – to align the teeth. Therefore, there is no point in using both these treatment options at the same time. In fact, it is practically impossible to have them both in the mouth simultaneously. Therefore, dental experts advise using only one treatment option at a time. If you are seeking treatment reliability, you should go with braces. On the other hand, if comfort and aesthetics are your main concerns, Invisalign aligners are more suitable for you. Your dentist can help you make the right decision regarding the best orthodontic treatment option for you. 

Unlike common dental procedures and treatment options, orthodontic treatment requires long-term commitment and adherence to instructions. More importantly, your treatment quality also depends on how experienced and qualified your dentist is. That is why one should always visit a renowned and experienced dentist in their area. If you are looking for a good orthodontist in Oxford, the Smile Practice is the best option for you. So, Start your Invisalign journey with us and get the smile you deserve. Book your appointment with us today and take your first step towards a beautiful and healthy smile. 

Why choose Digital Smile Design to help improve your smile?

Tuesday, November 1st, 2022

Why choose Digital Smile Design to help improve your smile?

Have you ever wondered how our favourite celebrities have such attractive smiles? Is that they are born with such picture-perfect smiles? Not all of them are naturally blessed with such adorable smiles, but they have highly experienced and qualified cosmetic dentists who completely transform their smiles! And the good news is that you can also benefit from cosmetic dentistry to eliminate your aesthetic facial defects and enjoy the smile you have always dreamed of. 

But how? You may ask! The answer to this question is a digital smile design. So, if you’re interested in knowing more about digital smile designs and how you can benefit from them, you have come to the right place. This blog will explain everything you need to know about digital smile designs and smile makeovers. So, read on to learn how easy it is to enjoy a Hollywood smile!

What Is A Digital Smile Design?

A digital smile design is an innovation in cosmetic dentistry in which a brand-new smile is digitally designed using software and simulation. The best thing about digital smile design is that one can visualise how their teeth and smile will look once their cosmetic dental treatment is complete. In this way, patients have full control over their smiles and appearance, and there are no surprises for them at the end of the treatment. A smile design basically serves as a template for the dentists that allows them to prepare a customised treatment plan for rehabilitating each patient’s smile and facial appearance. 

How Does Digital Dentistry Work?

Digital dentistry is has brought a revolution in restorative and cosmetic dentistry. With this technology, gone are the days when dentists used analogue equipment and instruments for providing dental treatment. For example, making impressions of teeth for veneer fabrication previously involved inserting an impression material-filled tray into the mouth, which was cumbersome and inconvenient for the patients, besides being inaccurate at times. On the other hand, dentists nowadays make digital impressions using intra-oral cameras that provide immediate results and are highly accurate. Similarly, digital x-rays offer far better details that conventional ones. Finally, digital technologies such as CAD/CAM have provided a convenient, quick, and aesthetically pleasing solution for the chairside fabrication of dental prostheses such as dentures, mouthguards and even restorations such as veneers and crowns. In short, digital dentistry has helped make dental treatment less time-consuming, pain-free, and more aesthetically pleasing. 

What Are The Process For Smile Design?

A digital smile design is an exacting procedure that requires careful planning and exceptional skills.

  • First, your dentist will perform a detailed examination to identify facial cosmetic and restorative defects.
  • Next, they will discuss these issues with you and suggest the best possible treatment options.
  • Then, based on your input, your dentist will use digital technology to design a simulation to help you visualise how your smile will be transformed and how you will look after the cosmetic treatment. At this stage, you can ask for any modifications if needed, as everything is done until this step is through software.

Once you approve the design, your dentist will prepare various restorations using CAD-CAM technology – depending on your treatment needs – to restore your smile and optimal dental function. In most cases, porcelain veneers and teeth whitening enhance one’s smile after a digital smile design procedure. 

Is Cosmetic Dentistry Helpful In Smile Designing?

A digital smile design is simply a template that allows the dentist to transform your smile. However, it is really the skill and expertise of the cosmetic dentist who will utilise this template and remove your facial aesthetic defects. So, a digital smile design is useless without cosmetic dental treatment. 

Where Can I Get the Best Digital Smile Design Treatment In Pune?

Finding the best cosmetic dentist in your area can be challenging, but it is certainly not impossible. The first thing to do is to search for online reviews of cosmetic dental practices in your area and shortlist the ones with the best reputation. Next, you should physically visit these practices and discuss your cosmetic issues with the dentist there. Finally, you should go with a dental practice that you feel the most comfortable with and one that offers the best value for your money. 

Will Smile Design Treatment Hurt?

Digital smile designing is done entirely using digital equipment and software. For example, the impression of your teeth will be made using an intra-oral camera, while x-ray images will be recorded using digital x-ray technology. So, you can rest assured that you won’t feel pain or discomfort during this procedure. 

Is Smile Makeover Really Beneficial?

A smile makeover is an excellent cosmetic option for individuals with flawed smiles. If your facial defects make you feel underconfident, a smile makeover can transform your looks and boost your self-confidence. Numerous people worldwide have benefitted from complete smile makeovers and enjoying the smiles of their dreams. So, what’s stopping you?

Is Cosmetic Dentistry Helpful In Smile Designing?

Let’s put it this way; a smile design is the virtual part of a smile makeover. The actual smile transformation is brought about with cosmetic dental treatment. So yes, cosmetic dentistry and smile design are interlinked and dependent on each other to ensure a healthy and aesthetically pleasing treatment outcome. 

Would you like to see the power of a digital smile design in Oxford? Then, visit us at The Smile Practice today, and let us show you we will transform your smile into a picture-perfect Hollywood smile. So, claim a free smile assessment and get one step closer to your dream smile!

How Long Does Invisalign Take?

Friday, August 26th, 2022

How Long Does Invisalign Take

Invisalign clear aligners have become the most sought-after orthodontic treatment option worldwide, owing to their superior comfort, convenience, and inconspicuousness compared to traditional braces. But, if you are also considering Invisalign for straightening your teeth, you might be thinking about how long this treatment will take. However, if an internet search did not provide sufficient answers, don’t worry; this blog explains everything you need to know about Invisalign aligners and, more importantly, how long Invisalign treatment will take to complete. So, read on to find out more!

How Long Does The Invisalign Treatment Take?

The average time taken by Invisalign aligners to correct tooth misalignment depends on various factors, such as the severity of the underlying issue, the patient’s age, treatment compliances and, more importantly, the dentist’s skill and experience. However, mild to moderate misalignment cases can take anywhere between 6-8 months for completion. On the other hand, complicated or complex orthodontic issues may take up to 30 months for completion. Similarly, patient compliance is also an essential factor when it comes to the treatment duration. For example, the treatment duration can be prolonged if one does not wear their aligners for the prescribed duration each day. 

What Are The Advantages Of Invisalign?

Invisalign aligners offer various advantages compared to traditional braces. Some of these include:

  1. Inconspicuous – virtually invisible when worn. Hence, no effect on one’s smile or facial aesthetics
  2. Comfortable – Invisalign causes considerably lesser discomfort and tooth pain than fixed braces
  3. Convenience – you can remove your aligners easily for eating or drinking anything
  4. Dietary Freedom – you can eat all your favourite foods without any restriction
  5. Oral Hygiene Maintenance – removable aligners allow one to maintain optimal oral health as they can be easily removed while brushing or flossing

When Should I Start Seeing Invisalign’s Results?

Invisalign aligners begin to move and realign your teeth as soon as your wear your first set of aligners. However, since tooth movement is slow, you will only see a visible improvement in tooth alignment after wearing one or two aligner sets. So, don’t be worried if you don’t see any results immediately after starting your treatment; orthodontic treatment is a slow but steady process.  

How Many Times A Day Can I Remove Invisalign?

Although you have the freedom to remove your aligners whenever you want, it is not recommended to remove them unnecessarily. For example, taking off your aligners while eating or brushing is permissible. However, you should put them back on immediately afterwards. Generally, you are required to wear your aligners throughout the day for an optimal treatment outcome. 

Do You Really Have To Wear Invisalign For 22 Hours?

Yes, the manufacturers of Invisalign aligners recommend that patients wear their aligner trays for at least 22 hours daily. Why? Because the longer you wear your aligners, the more will be the tooth movement and the faster you will achieve your desired results. Individuals who are inconsistent in wearing their aligners or those who fail to wear them for the prescribed duration must undergo treatment longer than those who follow their dentist’s instructions. 

Is Invisalign Better Than Braces?

Every orthodontic treatment option has its own merits and demerits. Likewise, Invisalign aligners are better than traditional braces in some aspects. Firstly, Invisalign aligners are removable; hence, you can eat all your favourite foods without difficulty. Secondly, Invisalign aligners are made of a flexible, transparent material which makes them comfortable to wear and inconspicuous. Finally, Invisalign aligners allow one to maintain their oral health optimally. So, Invisalign is better than braces in these aspects. 

What Can Invisalign Not Fix?

Invisalign aligners are generally suitable for fixing mild to moderate orthodontic issues like minor misalignments, crowding, or teeth spaces. However, these aligners may not be suitable for complex procedures such as extreme misalignment or cases where rotation of the teeth or bite correction is needed. In these cases, fixed braces may be a better treatment option. Your orthodontist will advise you regarding the most suitable treatment option after a thorough clinical examination. 

How Long Does Invisalign Take To Close A Gap?

The time required by Invisalign aligners to close teeth gaps depends on various factors, such as the severity of the problem, patient compliance in wearing the aligners, and the dentist’s skill. However, Invisalign can fix mild teeth gaps in 6-8 on average, while more complicated cases might take up to 24 months. 

How Long Does Invisalign Take If You Already Had Braces?

If you have previously undergone treatment with braces and you need re-treatment, you can get the fine-tuning done with Invisalign aligners. Since partial orthodontic treatment has already been done with braces, re-treatment with aligners won’t take long. Usually, such cases can be re-treated within 6-12 months. 

Do Metal Braces Work Faster Than Invisalign?

Traditional metal braces are the gold standard for orthodontic treatment. Some of their advantages include fast treatment, especially for complicated cases. So yes, braces work faster for complex orthodontic issues, while Invisalign aligners are a faster treatment option for mild to moderate orthodontic issues. 

Getting orthodontic treatment for teeth straightening can be a big decision for many. That is why, one should always go to an experienced, qualified, and friendly dentist, as Invisalign treatment continues long-term. If you are looking for a friendly and gentle-dental orthodontic practice in Didcot, the Smile Practice is where you should go for all your dental needs. So, book a free consultation appointment with us to discuss your treatment options and let us give you a smile that you genuinely deserve!

Can Invisalign Fix An Overbite?

Sunday, February 27th, 2022

Can Invisalign Fix An Overbite?

Invisalign clear aligners have become the most preferred and popular option for fixing tooth misalignment, owing to their comfort, convenience, and inconspicuousness. According to the manufacturers of Invisalign, over 12 million people have benefited from this treatment option worldwide, and the number continues to grow. Despite Invisalign’s popularity, many people are still not aware of the range of orthodontic problems which can be solved with removable aligners. Often patients ask their dentist whether Invisalign aligners can be used to fix an overbite. If you have also been searching for an answer to this question, this article is for you. So, read on to learn whether Invisalign aligners are suitable for treating a dental overbite.   

What Is The Difference Between An Overbite And An Underbite?

The terms overbite and underbite represent different types of misalignment of the teeth. An overbite is a condition in which the upper teeth excessively overlap the lower pens vertically. On the other hand, an underbite refers to a condition where the lower teeth lie in front of the upper ones. 

How Can Invisalign Be Used To Fix Overbites Or Underbites?

The most appropriate treatment for fixing an overbite or an underbite is orthodontics. Invisalign aligners can be used to fix mild to moderate cases of overbites and underbites. Sometimes, dentists have to use additional appliances with the aligenrs, which serve as anchors and help perform complex tooth movements. However, severe or complicated cases of overbites or underbites may sometimes require treatment with fixed braces. 

Do You Get Braces For An Overbite?

Fixed braces are among the commonly used and time-tested options for fixing a variety of orthodontic problems. If you have an overbite, you can get this problem treated by getting traditional braces. The braces will gradually move your teeth to restore optimal vertical overlap between your upper and lower front teeth. So, yes, braces can be used for correcting an overbite. 

How Can I Self Correct My Overbite At Home?

If you search the internet, you will find numerous at-home, alinger-based options for fixing an overbite. Although these at-home options are considerably cheaper than the dentist-supervised ones, they may not be as effective or safe to use. This is because these at-home aligners offer minimal dentist supervision, and there is no robust mechanism to ensure that your treatment is progressing in the right directiion. On the other hand, if you use Invisalign aligners for correcting an overbite, your dentist will constantly monitor your treatment progress and ensure that your treatment is completed in as little time as possible. Hence, it is always advisable to get an overbite fixed by an experienced and qualified dentist. 

Can Braces Fix A Weak Jaw Caused By An Overbite?

Weakening of the jaw joints can occur because of a long-standing, untreated overbite. This occurs because the of the excessive vertical overlap of the upper front teeth with the lower ones. As a result, there is constant pressure on the jaw joints causing long-term complications like limited of difficult mouth opening, clicking or popping sounds, and even jaw joint dislocation. As soon as Invisalign treatment is started, the pressure on the jaw joints is reduced and healing ensues. However, if there is severe damage to the jaw joints, additional treatment may be needed.  

How Long Does It Take To Fix An Overbite?

The time required to fix an overbite with Invisalign mainly depends on the severity of the issue. Generally, mild to moderate cases of an overbite can be fixed within 6-12 months. On the other hand, more severe or complicated cases may take up to 24 months for treatment. Another factor to consider is the dentist or orthodontist’s skill. That is why you should always visit a qualified and sufficiently trained dentist for the orthodontic treatment of an overbite. 

How Can I Prevent Getting An Overbite?

Unlike other tooth misalignment problems, such as an overjet, which can be prevented by controlling a child’s parafunctional habits (thumb sucking, tongue thrust etc.), there is not much one can do to avoid an overbite. Overbites are generally hereditary and tend to run in the families. Therefore, the best you can do is to take your child to an orthodontist at an early age so that they intervene and redirect jaw growth to reduce the severity of the issue. Later, once the child has grown all their permanent teeth, orthodontic treatment can be done with braces or Invisalign aligners to fix the overbite. 

How Can Braces Affect Your Facial Structure?

The primary function of braces is to move teeth. When the teeth move, it leads to changes in the shape and composition of the jawbones. Therefore, although braces do not directly affect one’s facial profile, they do have an indirect effect, which is caused due to the movement of the teeth within the jawbone. Also, when the teeth move, the soft tissues change their shape accordingly, causing the facial bones to change their shape. 

Is It Possible To Treat Crooked Teeth With Invisalign?

Invisalign aligners are the most convenient and comfortable options for treating crooked teeth. Your dentist will design your aligner in a way that they gradually move your teeth and realign them into perfect occlusion. So yes, you can have your crooked teeth fixed with Invisalign. 

 When seeking treatment for orthodontic problems, it is prudent to visit a qualified and experienced dentist. If you are living in Didcot or in Oxford, the Smile Practice is there to look after all your orthodontic and general dentistry treatment needs. So, book an appointment today and let our capable dental team give you the healthy and beautiful smile that you truly deserve. 

Can You Smoke With Invisalign?

Saturday, October 2nd, 2021

Can You Smoke With Invisalign?

If you are a heavy smoker and you’re considering clear aligner treatment, you might be wondering if you can smoke with Invisalign. A good question, indeed! Orthodontic treatment requires patience and strict adherence to lifestyle and dietary instructions given by your dentists. This article explains how smoking may affect orthodontic treatment and whether it is a good idea to smoke while wearing aligners. 

Can I Smoke With My Braces On?

Smoking is not only harmful to your general wellbeing, but it can also adversely affect your oral health. According to the British Orthodontic Society, smoking negatively affects gum health and increases the risk of systematic illnesses like high blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems. If you are wearing braces, especially the tooth-coloured ones, smoking may result in their staining. Besides, the high temperature generated in the oral cavity while tobacco may result in the warpage of the clear aligners

Will My Braces Stain From Smoking?

Adverse effects can occur from smoking;

  • Systemic illnesses – Such as high blood pressure and other cardiovascular health issues.
  • Gum disease
  • Bad breath

But it can also result in the staining of your braces, particularly if you are wearing ceramic braces or clear aligners. That is why it is recommended to quit, or at least cut down on smoking while you’re getting your teeth straightened with orthodontic treatment. 

Do Clear Braces Stain? How Can You Prevent It If So?

Tooth-coloured ceramic braces and Invisalign clear aligner trays are particularly vulnerable to staining due to smoking. Particularly in the case of Invisalign, this staining not only presents a cosmetic concern but also indicates higher chances of aligner warpage due to the persistently high temperatures generated in the mouth while smoking. While the best thing is to avoid smoking altogether, there are ways in which you can smoke without staining your aligners. Whenever you wish to smoke, simply remove aligners. Once you’re done, rinse your mouth, wash your aligners with lukewarm water and put them back on. However, you should not remove your aligners frequently for smoking,  as doing so may adversely affect your treatment outcome. 

How Can I Prevent My White Braces From Stain As I Use To Smoke?

Giving up on smoking is the first and the foremost step in avoiding the staining of tooth-coloured braces. Now that you have quit smoking, there are lesser chances of your braces getting stained. However, you must ensure to keep the braces clean – to prevent them from staining due to plaque and tartar deposition – by brushing and flossing regularly. You may also use an interdental brush to ensure optimal cleaning. 

Can You Vape With A Retainer In? I’m Worried Because It’s Plastic?

Using a vape while wearing retainers – particularly if you’re using a low-temperature formula – should not cause any harm to your retainers. However, whether you are careful or use conventional cigarettes or vapes, your plastic retainers can still get stained. If you are wearing a removable aligner, you can minimise the chances of their staining by removing them while you smoke. Alternatively, if your dentist has attached a fixed retainer inside your mouth,  the best thing to prevent staining the retainers is to avoid smoking altogether. If you cannot control the urge, make sure you maintain optimal oral hygiene, as it may help in reducing or even in offsetting the staining issue

Can I Vape With Braces?

Many people think that vapes are less harmful than cigarettes. Unfortunately,  this is not true. Research suggests that many formulas used for vaping contain harmful ingredients like nicotine, which, on the one hand, affects the ability of our teeth to respond favourably to orthodontic treatment and results in staining of the braces on the other hand. Therefore, it is better to avoid smoking or vaping while you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. 

Can Dentists Tell If I Smoked Once A Day For The Past Week?

Even if you manage to avoid tooth smoking-related staining with regular brushing and flossing, other tell-tale signs may indicate that you have been smoking in the previous days. People who smoke, whether one cigarette or an entire pack, tend to have swollen gums. Besides, bad breath is also a commonly observed sign that can tell your dentist that you haven’t given up smoking. 

Why Did My Teeth Become Yellow While Using Invisalign?

One of the most common reasons for yellowing of the teeth is due to plaque and tartar deposition. If you’re wearing Invisalign trays and you feel that your teeth have become yellow, it indicates that you have not been maintaining optimal oral hygiene. However, no need to worry; this problem is reversible. Start brushing and flossing, and the problem should go away. 

How To Remove The Yellow Stains Around My Braces

Stains can form around dental braces due to various reasons. If you have plaque-related stains around the braces,  these can be removed with optimal oral hygiene care or professional teeth cleaning once your treatment is complete. On the other hand, if you observe “white spots” around the braces, these occur because of loss of minerals from the teeth and indicate the initiation of the tooth decay process. Therefore, white spot lesions should not be taken lightly, and immediate dental help should be sought. 

So, are you ready to get your teeth straightened with orthodontic treatment? Make sure you get your treatment done by an experienced and qualified dentist. If you live in Oxford or surrounding areas, The Smile Practice can take care of all your dental needs. Whether you need Invisalign aligners or ceramic braces, we have got you covered. So book a free consultation appointment today, and let us give you a smile you have always dreamed of.

The cost of Invisalign UK

Tuesday, September 1st, 2020

The cost of Invisalign

Many people nowadays prefer Invisalign removable aligners over the conventional braces to get their teeth aligned. This is because the removable aligners are much more comfortable and less conspicuous than fixed braces. However, one of the most critical factors that need to be considered while selecting an orthodontic treatment option is the treatment cost.

This article explains everything you need to know about Invisalign treatment costs in the UK.

Is Invisalign Better Than Braces?

If you’re looking for a treatment option that does not affect your facial aesthetics and offers comfort and convenience, then Invisalign is often better than braces. However, Invisalign aligners can only be used to fix mild to moderate orthodontic problems.

For complex or complicated issues, dentists recommend using fixed braces as they offer better control over tooth movement.

Is Invisalign Cheaper Than Braces?

Whether you are using braces or Invisalign aligners, the cost of your treatment depends on various factors such as the complexity of the problem, patient compliance, and the availability of financing options. Invisalign braces generally cost the same or slightly more than the traditional braces. This is because Invisalign is a cosmetic orthodontic system that allows you to eat your favorite foods and maintain optimal oral hygiene without affecting your smile.

Some dental offices provide 0% finance or interest-free loans to facilitate payment. It is always a good idea to book a free consultation with your orthodontist and discuss all your queries before you start your aligner treatment.

Why Are Braces So Expensive in the UK?

Orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners requires extensive training and investment by your dentist and is not simple as it seems. Before starting your treatment, your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth, jaws and surrounding structures to identify the underlying problem.

Based on the findings, your orthodontist/dentist will then prepare a detailed treatment plan that is customized according to your dental needs – and one that offers the best aesthetic outcome. All this requires effort and time on the part of your Dentist.

Furthermore, orthodontic treatment sometimes requires additional procedures such as teeth cleanings, dental fillings, root canal treatment, and teeth extraction – that drive-up the braces cost. Not only this, but orthodontists also have provided specialized training to their staff in orthodontic procedures and advanced cross-infection control methods. Finally, the materials and equipment used in orthodontics are quite expensive.

All these factors can affect the total cost of your treatment.  Your dentist or orthodontist will provide you with an overview of the estimated treatment cost after preparing a treatment plan.

Is Invisalign Really Invisible?

Invisalign aligners are made from a clear plastic material – which makes them virtually invisible. People will not notice that you’re wearing aligners unless they observe very closely. However, if you do not clean your aligners properly, they may get stained and affect your facial aesthetics.

But if you clean them properly, you can wear your aligners to any official meeting, social gathering, job interview, or date! – with confidence that no one can see that you’re wearing aligners.

Alternatives To Invisalign?

Nowadays, there are many orthodontic systems available in the market that can be used as an alternative to Invisalign. Apart from the time-tested conventional braces, some of the alternative treatment options in the UK include:

You can consult your orthodontist regarding an Invisalign alternative that best suits your need for teeth straightening.

Does Invisalign Work For Under 18’s?

Invisalign now offers Invisalign Teens – a clear aligner system that is customized for the teenagers. Keeping in view that school or college students are highly conscious of their smile and appearance, Invisalign allows teenagers to get their teeth straightened without affecting their daily life activities.

Orthodontic treatment with Invisalign aligners may cost you more in the short-term, but consider this is a long-term investment. Consider its positive impact on your smile, your ability to speak and eat without difficulty, and, most importantly, your self-confidence and personality!

Invest in your oral health today and enjoy its benefits throughout life!

How Does Invisalign Work?

Friday, March 27th, 2020

how does Invisalign work

Are you worried about your crooked and misaligned teeth, but the thought of wearing metal braces makes you think twice about seeking treatment? Don’t worry; now you can get your teeth straightened without anyone noticing, thanks to the Invisalign clear aligners. Owing to their inconspicuousness, comfort, and convenience, the Invisalign clear aligner has nowadays become the most preferred option to straighten teeth.

Is Invisalign the right option for you? It is best that you should know what Invisalign is and how it works before you decide. This article will take you through the steps that are involved in orthodontic treatment with Invisalign Aligners.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is an orthodontic system based on the use of virtually invisible removable aligners. A unique feature of these aligners is that they are made from a transparent material, this puts pressure on the teeth in a similar way to conventional wires brackets. Therefore, they won’t be visible to other people while you’re wearing them. Your dentist will give you a set of numbered aligners, which you will successively wear to move your teeth in proper alignment and occlusion.

How Invisalign Works?

Here are the steps involved in getting your teeth straightened with Invisalign invisible aligners:

  1. Consultation and Treatment Planning

When you visit your dentist for a consultation about getting Invisalign, he or she will perform a detailed examination of your oral cavity and look at x-ray images of your teeth and study models. This is done to ensure that you are a suitable candidate for getting Invisalign aligners. Considering your current oral health status, your dentist will prepare a treatment that will be fully customized for your treatment needs. Your dentist or orthodontist will also calculate the exact treatment time, typically this is anything from 6 months to 2 years.

  1. Designing your Aligners

In the next step, your dentist will use a special device to make digital impressions of your teeth and gums. Your dentist will then send this information to an Invisalign affiliated lab. Back at the dental laboratory, the digital impressions and models will be evaluated thoroughly, in consultation with your dentist, to design a series of aligners that will sequentially align your teeth in optimal angulation and position. Once the designs for your aligners have been made, the laboratory will fabricate them by using the 3D printing technology. These aligners will then be transported to your dentist’s office. Before you start to wear your aligners, your dentist may place some composite patches. These patches allow the aligners to grip onto the teeth and move them in the desired direction.

  1. Wearing your First Set of Aligners

During your next appointment, your dentist will instruct you regarding the use and wearing of your new aligners. For optimal results, you must wear your aligners for at least 22 hours each day. You should keep in mind that your new aligners may feel slightly uncomfortable during the initial few days of wearing. Don’t worry; it will go away in a few days. You may also have slight difficulty in speaking while your aligners – no need to worry, you will soon get used to your new aligners.

  1. Switching to the Next Set of Aligners

Most dentists ask their patients to wear each set of aligners for about 14 days. Once you have worn a set of aligners for the specified time duration, you should then switch to the next set of numbered aligners. You will feel slight pain and discomfort immediately after switching to your new aligners. This is because the new aligners are continuing to move your teeth, and as your teeth get adjusted, the discomfort should decrease. In this way, you should continue to switch to the next set of aligners after the duration set by your dentist. By the time you have worn two or three aligners, you will start to feel a positive improvement in your smile and facial esthetics.

  1. Visiting your Dentist for Regular Checkups

 While wearing the Invisalign aligners, your dentist will ask you to come for a checkup every four to six weeks. This is to ensure that your treatment is heading in the right direction, and the desired results are being achieved.

  1. Wearing the Retainers

Once your treatment has been completed, your dentist will give you the Vivera retainers by Invisalign. The purpose of wearing these retainers is to ensure that your teeth don’t move back to their previous positions once they have become properly aligned. Even after your treatment has been completed, your dentist will ask you to visit for a follow-up, so that your treatment can be consolidated, and you can retain your brand-new smile. During the Invisalign treatment process it is important to brush and floss your teeth, this will mean removing your aligners.

How Long Does the Treatment Take?

The duration of your treatment depends on two main factors: the severity of your problem and your compliance. Mild problems can normally be treated in 6-8 months. More complex problems may require up to 12 months to complete. Similarly, your treatment will take lesser time if you adhere to your dentist’s instructions and wear your aligners for at least 22 hours each day.

Invisalign aligners offer an esthetically superior and more comfortable option in comparison to the fixed braces. Visit us today to discuss the option of your teeth straightening with Invisalign.

Discover the Convenience of Invisalign Braces

Saturday, April 16th, 2016

Although metal braces are extremely effective at straightening teeth, they are highly visible and can have a huge impact on your self-confidence in social situations.  Thankfully metal braces are no longer the only option if you’re unhappy with your teeth. Invisalign braces are virtually invisible and straighten your teeth comprehensively without the metal brackets and wires.

What you need to know

Because they are made from clear plastic, Invisalign braces are often known as ‘see through braces’ or ‘invisible braces’.  Like traditional braces they are constructed to fit the exact shape of your mouth so that the maximum effect is achieved.  Modern dentists use computer technology which means that Invisalign aligners can be made and fitted quickly, without the need to wait while dental putty moulds are made into impressions.

Invisalign braces are completely removable, but for the best results you should wear them for at least 20 hours a day.  They are more comfortable than traditional braces too, because there is no tightening of wires involved. Instead, your dentist will provide you with a new set of Invisalign braces as and when you need them to continue the process of adjusting your teeth.

I am dropping a note to say thanks for all the work you have done for me, I am aware that I am not the easiest of patients. Your patience and explanations whilst work is underway was very much appreciated. The bridge work is really outstanding, here’s hoping I need nothing more than routine checks for some time.
- Mr R G
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