Cosmetic Dentistry
General Dentistry
Restorative Dentistry
Dental Implants
Orthodontics
Sleep Dentistry
Emergency Dentist
Children’s DentistAre you considering Invisalign as an option to address your teeth alignment and improve your smile? If so, you’re not alone. Invisalign is one of the most popular dental treatments available today.
Year after year, more and more people are turning to Invisalign for a more convenient, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional braces.
But what exactly is Invisalign, and what can you expect from the treatment? Here’s everything you need to know about Invisalign.
Contents Navigation
- What Is Invisalign Treatment?
- Who Are Good Candidates For Invisalign?
- Are There Any Advantages To Invisalign Treatment?
- Are There Any Disadvantages To Invisalign Treatment?
- What Side Effects Are Associated With Invisalign Treatment?
- Can Invisalign Aligners Be Stained?
- What Is An Effective Way To Clean Invisalign Aligners?
- How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Last?
- What Is The Suitability Of Invisalign For Children?
- Final Thoughts
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Invisalign Treatment?
Invisalign treatment is a popular orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, custom-made trays called aligners to move teeth into their proper position and straighten them gradually.
These orthodontic aligners can be used to manage a wide variety of dental issues, including misaligned teeth, crowding, and gapped teeth.
Unlike traditional braces, the Invisalign system is nearly invisible, making them a popular choice for adults and teens who want to improve their smile without drawing attention to their misaligned teeth.
Although Invisalign treatment is generally more expensive than traditional braces, many patients feel it is worth the investment.
Who Are Good Candidates For Invisalign?
Invisalign treatment is indicated for several dental conditions, including:
Misalignment of teeth
When teeth are misaligned, it can cause problems, such as difficulty cleaning the teeth, an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease, and feelings of self-consciousness.
Invisalign addresses crooked teeth by gently moving the teeth into their proper position. It helps to improve both the function and the appearance of your smile.
Overcrowding
Overcrowding occurs when there is insufficient space in the mouth for all teeth. This can cause the teeth to become crooked or overlapping. In some cases, overcrowding can also lead to difficulties with chewing or speaking.
Invisalign is an effective treatment option for overcrowding because it can gently move the teeth without causing any damage to the surrounding teeth.
Gapped teeth
Gapped teeth occur when there is too much space between the teeth. This can be caused by various factors, including genetic predisposition, thumb sucking, and early loss of baby teeth. Gapped teeth can cause aesthetic concerns and may also increase the risk of food impaction and tooth decay.
Invisalign can help close gaps between the teeth and improve the smile’s overall appearance.
Overbite
An overbite occurs when the upper teeth bite over the lower teeth. In severe cases, the lower teeth can be pushed so far back that they become painful or cause bite problems.
Invisalign trays can help to gradually move the teeth back into their proper position, alleviating pain and preventing further damage.
Underbite
Invisalign can also be a good option for patients with an underbite. This is when the lower teeth protrude in front of the upper teeth.
With Invisalign, the orthodontic aligners are specifically designed to target the underlying causes of an underbite, gradually moving the teeth into their proper positions. As a result, Invisalign can provide an effective and esthetic solution for patients with this type of bite misalignment.
To be considered a good candidate for Invisalign, you should:
- Have all of your permanent teeth. This is because baby teeth will eventually fall out on their own.
- Have mild to moderate misalignment of teeth. Invisalign is not recommended for patients with severe misalignment, as this can require more aggressive treatment.
- Be dedicated to wearing the Invisalign trays for the recommended number of hours per day. For Invisalign to be effective, you need to wear the trays consistently.
- Be willing to visit the dentist every 4-6 weeks. You will need to see your dentist regularly to monitor your treatment progress.
- Have healthy gums and teeth. For Invisalign to be effective, you need to have good oral health. This means having healthy gums and teeth. Invisalign works by putting gentle pressure on your teeth, which can aggravate existing gum disease.
You may be a good candidate for Invisalign treatment if you meet all of these qualifications. Talk to your dentist about whether or not Invisalign is right for you.
Are There Any Advantages To Invisalign Treatment?
Some of the advantages of Invisalign treatment include the following:
- Invisalign trays are nearly invisible, making them a good option for adults who want straighter teeth without drawing attention to their orthodontic treatment.
- Invisalign treatment is more comfortable than traditional braces. They also cause less irritation than metal braces because there are no brackets and wires to deal with.
- Invisalign trays are removable. They can be taken out for eating, brushing, and flossing. This means you can continue to enjoy your favourite foods and maintain good oral hygiene.
- Invisalign treatment is customised to each patient, meaning each patient will have their own personalised treatment plan. This means that you’re getting the most suitable care possible.
- Invisalign treatment is faster than traditional braces, with most patients finishing their treatment within 12 months. In some cases, Invisalign treatment can even be completed in as little as six months.
Are There Any Disadvantages To Invisalign Treatment?
While Invisalign is much less noticeable than traditional braces, there are some potential disadvantages to Invisalign treatment.
- Invisalign trays must be worn for at least 22 hours per day to be effective. This can be difficult to remember, especially for busy adults or active kids. If the trays are not worn as directed, treatment will take longer.
- Invisalign is that the trays can cause some discomfort, especially when first getting used to them. In some cases, Invisalign patients may experience soreness from the orthodontic aligners. This generally subsides after a few days as the patient gets used to wearing the trays.
- Invisalign can also be more expensive than traditional braces since the treatment involves numerous custom-made trays. In some cases, dental insurance may not cover the cost of Invisalign.
- Invisalign may not be suitable for patients with severe misalignment of teeth. In cases of crowding, spacing, or deep bites, traditional braces may be a better option.
- Invisalign trays can be easily lost or misplaced, which can prolong treatment time.
Patients considering Invisalign should consult with an orthodontist to see if they’re a good candidate for the treatment.
What Side Effects Are Associated With Invisalign Treatment?
As with any medical treatment, there are some potential side effects that you should be aware of before starting Invisalign treatment.
Soreness and Irritation
As your teeth shift into their new positions, you might experience some soreness. Your gums, lips, cheeks, and tongue can also become irritated to the trays. This is usually temporary. Contact your dentist immediately if it persists. In rare cases, the irritation may be more severe and require a break from Invisalign treatment.
Tooth Decay
Another potential side effect of Invisalign is tooth decay. This can occur if food and bacteria become trapped in the aligners. To avoid tooth decay, it is important to brush and floss your teeth before putting in the aligners. In addition, you should clean the aligners regularly with soap and water.
Dry Mouth and Bad Breath
Dry mouth and bad breath are common side effects of Invisalign. This is because your body is detecting a foreign object in your mouth and produces less saliva. When this happens, remember to stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day and chewing sugar-free gum.
Headaches
Another potential side effect of Invisalign is headaches. This is because the aligners can put pressure on the teeth and jaw. If you experience headaches, you should talk to your orthodontist about whether Invisalign is right for you.
Root Resorption
Root resorption is a serious side effect of Invisalign. This is when the roots of the teeth start to dissolve. This can cause pain, sensitivity, and tooth loss. If you experience these symptoms, you should stop using Invisalign and see your dentist immediately.
Speech Difficulties
Another potential side effect of Invisalign is speech difficulties. This is because the aligners can make moving your tongue and lips difficult. If you experience speech difficulties, you should talk to your orthodontist about whether Invisalign is right for you.
Gum Disease
Another potential side effect of Invisalign is gum disease. This is because the aligners can trap bacteria and plaque against the gums, which can cause inflammation and infection. If you experience gum disease, you should see your dentist right away.
If you are considering Invisalign, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects. Invisalign is a great way to straighten your teeth, but it is not without its risks. Talk to your dentist about the risks and benefits of Invisalign before you begin treatment.
Can Invisalign Aligners Be Stained?
Invisalign trays are not stain-proof. Over time, Invisalign aligners can become stained, yellowed, or discoloured.
There are several potential causes of Invisalign staining, including:
- Foods and drinks:
Invisalign trays can absorb the colour of foods and drinks, especially if consumed while the aligners are in place. To help prevent staining, avoid dark-coloured beverages such as coffee, tea, and red wine. In addition, brush your teeth after eating or drinking anything other than water. - Smoking: Cigarette smoke can also discolour Invisalign trays.
If you smoke cigarettes or use tobacco products, it is ideal to remove your aligners before doing so. In addition, it is important to brush your teeth thoroughly after smoking to remove any residual nicotine or tar. - Poor oral hygiene:
Poor oral hygiene can lead to staining of Invisalign trays and other dental problems such as cavities and gum disease. Remember to brush twice daily, floss regularly, and visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. - Improper cleaning:
It is important to clean Invisalign trays properly to avoid staining. Be sure to use mild soap and warm water, and avoid using toothpaste or other abrasive cleaners, as these can scratch the surface of the trays. In addition, make sure to rinse the trays thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth.
If your Invisalign trays become stained, you may be able to remove the stains with a toothbrush and toothpaste or by soaking them in denture cleaner overnight. However, if the stains are severe, you may need to bring them to your dentist for professional cleaning or replacement.
If you’re concerned about Invisalign staining, talk to your orthodontist.
What Is An Effective Way To Clean Invisalign Aligners?
Just like good oral and dental care, your Invisalign aligners also require some special care. Here are eight tips for keeping your Invisalign clean:
- Brush your teeth and rinse your Invisalign trays after eating. Food particles can get trapped in the aligners, so doing these as soon as possible is important.
- Brush your Invisalign trays with a soft-bristled toothbrush. You can use toothpaste or mild soap but avoid any abrasive cleaners. Remember to brush all tray surfaces, including the inside and outside surfaces that come into contact with your teeth.
- Soak your Invisalign trays in denture cleaner overnight. This will help to remove any plaque or tartar build-up.
- Rinse your Invisalign trays with lukewarm water before putting them in your mouth. This will help remove any bacteria or debris that may have accumulated on the trays during the day.
- Avoid eating sticky or hard foods while wearing Invisalign. Sticky foods can cause the aligners to warp, and hard foods can damage the trays. Also, avoid eating foods that can stain your Invisalign trays, such as coffee, tea, and red wine.
- Don’t smoke while wearing Invisalign. Smoking can cause staining and is harmful to your overall and oral health.
- Brush and floss your teeth twice a day to maintain good oral hygiene while wearing Invisalign.
- See your dentist and orthodontist regularly for checkups and cleaning appointments while wearing Invisalign aligners.
How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Last?
Invisalign treatment is customised for each patient, so the answer to this question is not always straightforward. The length of Invisalign treatment will vary from patient to patient, depending on the severity of the misalignment. In general, most patients can expect to wear Invisalign aligners for about 12-18 months.
- Step 1: Consultation and Treatment Planning
Treatment begins with a consultation with an orthodontist or Invisalign-certified dentist. During this appointment, your dentist will take digital scans or X-rays of your teeth. These will be used to create a personalised treatment plan that outlines the movements your teeth need to make to achieve your desired results. It will also include a timeline of how long treatment will take and what the final results will look like. From there, you will receive your first set of Invisalign aligners. - Step 2: Wearing the Aligners
You will need to wear these aligners for 20-22 hours each day, removing them only to eat and brush your teeth. Every two weeks or so, you will need to replace them as you move on to a new set of aligners that will continue gently moving your teeth into place. Depending on the severity of your case, you may need to wear up to 48 sets of aligners before completion. - Step 3: Retainers
Once you have finished wearing Invisalign aligners, you will likely need to wear a retainer at night to maintain your new smile. This is to prevent your teeth from shifting back into their original position after the treatment is complete.If you are thinking about starting Invisalign treatment, it is encouraged that you schedule a consultation with your dentist. They can answer any questions you may have and help you determine if Invisalign is right for you.
What Is The Suitability Of Invisalign For Children?
Invisalign is an increasingly popular treatment option for children and teens, providing a more aesthetic alternative to traditional metal braces. Invisalign is also generally considered to be more comfortable than braces. However, Invisalign is not right for every child.
Invisalign is suitable for children as young as seven or eight years old if their permanent teeth have come in and their molars have erupted.
In general, Invisalign is only recommended for children over the age of 12. This is because Invisalign requires a certain amount of cooperation from the patient to be effective. Younger children may not have the maturity or patience to comply with the Invisalign personalised treatment plan.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a discreet and effective way to achieve straight teeth and a beautiful smile, Invisalign is the right choice for you. With over 7 million happy patients worldwide, Invisalign has repeatedly proven that it can help people of all ages get the beautiful smile they’ve always wanted.
Karrinyup Dental Centre offers dental consultations so that you can find out if Invisalign is suitable for you. Our team of experienced dental professionals is here to help you every step of the way, from your initial consultation through treatment and beyond.
So what are you waiting for? Visit our website or call Karrinyup Dental Centre today to book an appointment; we can’t wait to help you achieve your dream smile!
Frequently Asked Questions
Although Invisalign has few dietary restrictions, it is recommended that you remove the aligners while eating to prevent damage or staining. Here are some tips for maintaining a clean and healthy smile while wearing Invisalign:
- It’s important to remove your Invisalign trays before eating. This will help to prevent food from becoming stuck in the aligners and making them difficult to clean.
- It’s ideal to avoid sticky or chewy foods while wearing Invisalign, as they can loosen the trays and cause them to become less effective.
- Brush your teeth after every meal to remove food particles from the aligners.
However, other than that, you can eat whatever you like as long as you remove them. So go ahead and enjoy your favourite meals – your orthodontic treatment won’t get in the way.
Invisalign treatment is not always pain-free; some people experience pain and discomfort while wearing the aligners. There are several possible reasons for this:
- Invisalign trays may put pressure on certain teeth and gum tissues.
- Wearing Invisalign for long periods can cause mouth irritation.
- Invisalign trays can slip out of place, causing pain.
- Invisalign treatment can sometimes cause headaches or jaw pain.
In most cases, the pain associated with Invisalign is mild and can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication. However, you should contact your orthodontist if you experience severe pain or discomfort.
Invisalign trays are made of medical-grade polyurethane plastic. They do not contain latex, making them a good choice for people with latex allergies. In addition, Invisalign trays are BPA-free and FDA-approved.
However, some people may be allergic to the materials used in Invisalign trays. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include:
- Irritation
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blistering
You should contact your dentist or orthodontist if you experience any of these symptoms.
In rare cases, an allergic reaction to Invisalign trays can be life-threatening. If you have a known allergy to polyurethane plastic, you should not use Invisalign trays.
Invisalign treatment can be expensive, with the average cost ranging from $6,000 to $9,000.
There are a number of factors that contribute to the high cost of Invisalign treatment, such as the following:
- Invisalign trays are custom-made for each patient, using 3D imaging technology. This customisation means that Invisalign trays are not mass-produced in the same way as traditional metal braces, which helps to explain why they are more expensive.
- Invisalign trays must be replaced every two weeks or so as the patient’s teeth begin to shift into their proper position. This means that a course of Invisalign treatment requires a significant number of aligners, contributing to the cost.
- Invisalign treatment is often only available through orthodontists or other dental specialists, which can add to the overall expense.
Taken together, these factors help explain why Invisalign is such an expensive treatment option. But despite its high cost, many patients still feel Invisalign is worth the investment.
