You will hear us going on about Invisalign a lot here at Vital Dental Care, and for good reason! We love how effective it is at treating orthodontic issues, without being as intrusive as traditional braces.
While most of us did our time as teenagers with brackets on our teeth (and have the photos to prove it – eek), these days, Invisalign is far more accessible and straight teeth can come without braces.
If you’re thinking about diving into the wonderful world of Invisalign, you probably have a few questions – luckily, we have the answers.
Let’s Start From the Beginning – What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a clear aligner system used to straighten teeth without traditional braces. It consists of virtually invisible, removable aligners. Think of it like a barely detectable mouth guard that does all of the teeth straightening work for you.
How Does Invisalign Work?
First of all, you’ll come into Vital Dental Care for your Invisalign consultation where we’ll take a 3D scan of your teeth to work out a plan for getting the straight teeth of your dreams.
We’ll then create a series of custom-made aligners that gradually shift your teeth into the desired position. You switch to a new aligner every few weeks to keep up the progress.
Different Types of Dental Implants
Diving into the realm of dental implants reveals a diverse range of solutions designed to cater to various needs and conditions.
- Endosteal implants take centre stage, involving the surgical placement of titanium posts directly into the jawbone, providing unparalleled stability and support.
- On the other hand, subperiosteal implants offer an alternative for individuals with insufficient bone density by placing implants above the jawbone.
While both types present unique benefits, the choice depends on your specific circumstances and the dentist’s expertise.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
The longevity of dental implants is a testament to their exceptional durability and effectiveness. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime.
This journey begins with adopting impeccable oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing with antimicrobial mouthwash. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, while avoiding excessive sugary or acidic foods, can also contribute to their longevity.
If you’re a smoker, consider this an opportunity to take steps towards quitting or reducing smoking, as it significantly affects the health of your implants.
Regular dental check-ups play a crucial role in identifying and addressing any issues early on, safeguarding the radiant smile you’ve invested in.
Is Invisalign Suitable for Everyone?
While Invisalign can treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, it may not be suitable for complex cases. That’s why we offer a free 30-minute straightening consultation! During that time, we’ll use 3D scans to assess your smile and talk you through your treatment options.
How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?
Treatment duration varies depending on the complexity of your case, but it generally ranges from 6 to 18 months. This is something we’ll discuss in your consultation to give you a better idea of how long you will need to wear your Invisalign to get your desired results.
Is Invisalign Painful?
Invisalign is typically less painful than traditional braces. Having said that, you may experience some discomfort during the adjustment period when switching aligners. That should dissipate over the first couple of days of wearing a new aligner.
Do I have to Wear Invisalign Aligners All the Time?
To get the results you’ve been dreaming of, aligners should be worn for 20-22 hours a day. They should be removed for eating, brushing your teeth and flossing, but should be worn at other times, especially sleeping.
How Often Do I Need to Change my Aligners?
Throughout your Invisalign treatment, you will need to come and see us approximately every 3-4 weeks so we can give you your new set of aligners and check on your progress.
Can I Eat and Drink with Invisalign?
You should remove aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water to prevent staining and damage.
How Do I Clean Invisalign Aligners?
Rinse them with lukewarm water and brush them gently with a soft toothbrush. Avoid using hot water to prevent warping. You Should be cleaning your Invisalign at least once a day. An easy way to remember is to clean them when you brush your teeth to keep them in tip top condition.
Will Invisalign Affect My Speech?
Initially, you might have a slight lisp, but it usually improves as you get used to the aligners. Nothing to worry about and can even be a little funny at the start!
How Do I Store My Aligners When Not in Use?
We’ll provide you with an Invisalign case to store your aligners when you’re taking them out to eat or brush your teeth so you don’t lose or damage them. We’re all about keeping your aligners safe!
What Happens When I Finish My Aligner Treatment?
After your Invisalign journey, you will likely need to wear retainers to maintain your dreamy new smile. We’ll advise you on when to wear the retainers, but to keep your great results, you should aim to wear your retainer every night while you sleep.
Is Invisalign More Expensive Than Traditional Braces?
While costs can vary as it depends on your treatment plan, Invisalign can often cost a similar amount to getting traditional braces. When you come in for your consultation, we can give you a clearer idea of the cost of the treatment.
Have any other questions about Invisalign? You can read more here.
f you’re ready to book in your FREE Invisalign consultation, book here.