If you are considering orthodontic treatment, you have several options to choose from. For example, you can go with different braces - traditional, lingual, and ceramic - or get your teeth straightened with clear aligners. But if we talk about the most convenient and sought-after orthodontic treatment option, it is Invisalign®. Orthodontic patients are finding Invisalign® aligners more comfortable and convenient than fixed braces. That is why most patients in London now ask for treatment with removable aligners.
But what is Invisalign®, and how does it work? If this is the first time you have heard about Invisalign®, don’t worry; this blog gives details of this treatment option to help you make an informed decision about your orthodontic treatment. So, continue reading to learn more about orthodontic aligners.
How To Get Straighter Teeth?
Misaligned and crooked teeth affect one’s smile, aesthetics and can create other issues, such as difficulty maintaining oral hygiene, physical health and difficulty speaking clearly. That is why it is essential to get one’s teeth straightened. When we talk about teeth straightening, there are several options available. You can get your teeth straightened with fixed orthodontic appliances or removable ones. Fixed orthodontic appliances include metal, lingual, and tooth-coloured ceramic braces. On the other hand, removable appliances include Invisalign® clear aligners and functional appliances.
Your dentist will first examine your teeth carefully, look at the x-ray images, and study models of your teeth and jaws. Afterwards, they will suggest a treatment option that best suits your treatment needs.
What Is Invisalign® Treatment, And How Does It Work?
Invisalign® is an orthodontic system using removable aligner trays for straightening teeth. These aligners are made of a flexible and transparent material, making them comfortable and virtually inconspicuous. Your dentist will give you a set of 3D-printed aligners - one for each jaw. You will be asked to wear each aligner set for approximately 22 hours daily for 14 days, depending on your needs. Afterwards, you should switch to the next set of numbered aligners.
Each aligner set is designed to move your teeth in the desired direction gradually. This way, each aligner set will bring you one step closer to your dream smile. Once you have worn all your aligners, your dentist will give you upper and lower retainers to consolidate your treatment, i.e., prevent your teeth from returning to their previous positions.
How Long Does The Invisalign® Treatment Take?
There is no fixed timeline for orthodontic treatment with Invisalign®; it depends on various factors. For example, it depends on the dentist’s skill, the severity of the underlying case and patient compliance. However, mild to moderate cases can typically be treated within 6-8 months. On the other hand, more complicated issues may take up to 24 months to complete.
Can You Sleep While Using Invisalign®?
The manufacturers of Invisalign® aligners recommend patients wear them for at least 22 hours each day. These aligners should be worn throughout the day. However, considering the need for their removal during eating and oral hygiene maintenance, an allowance of 2 hours a day is given. One should keep wearing their aligners while sleeping; they will continue straightening your teeth while asleep.
Can Invisalign® Fix Overlapping Front Teeth?
The condition where the front teeth overlap is called overcrowding. If you also have tooth overcrowding affecting your smile, don’t worry; Invisalign® is a great solution for this problem. Once you wear your aligners, they will gradually straighten your teeth and fix the crowding. However, in cases of severe crowding - caused by insufficient space in the jaws to accommodate all the teeth - your dentist may extract one or two teeth to create space and then perform the orthodontic treatment.
Can You Have A Dental Implant And Invisalign® At The Same Time?
A good thing about Invisalign® is that they are compatible with dental implants. This means you can get implants before, during, and after Invisalign® treatment. Why? Because the aligners are worn over the teeth. Since dental implants look, function, and feel just like natural teeth, they won’t hinder aligner function. So, there is no issue getting implants during Invisalign® treatment.
Invisalign® London Cost
The cost of Invisalign® aligners varies according to the dentist’s experience, location, and severity of the underlying case. However, the average cost of Invisalign® in London is between £1800 to £5500. You can ask your dentist for an estimate of your treatment cost after they have performed a clinical examination. You can also reduce your treatment costs if the practice accepts your insurance plan. So, it is a good idea to check your insurance acceptance before starting the treatment.
Which Dentist Should I Go To For Invisalign®?
A crucial factor to consider when getting orthodontic treatment is where to go for treatment.
If you are looking for the best orthodontist in London, consider Chingford Mount Dental Practice. Our orthodontists have vast experience in treating all kinds of orthodontic disorders. We also have state-of-the-art equipment to ensure you get the highest-quality treatment. So, request a virtual consultation or book an appointment for an initial consultation today and begin your smile transformation journey.
