How Do Invisible Teeth Aligners Work

If you need to make some changes to the alignment of your teeth, you may wonder if there’s another option other than traditional braces. Luckily, invisible teeth aligners are an effective alternative.

Invisible teeth aligners (Invisalign) can offer significant benefits over traditional braces, such as their virtually invisible appearance when worn and the convenience of removable aligners, allowing for easier oral hygiene maintenance and the freedom to enjoy your favourite foods without restrictions.

In this blog, we’ll explain exactly what invisible teeth aligners are and how they work to help you achieve your desired smile.

What is Invisalign (Invisible Teeth Aligners)?

Invisalign is a brand of invisible teeth aligners, a popular alternative to traditional braces for straightening teeth and correcting various orthodontic issues. Invisalign aligners are transparent, removable trays made of a smooth, BPA-free plastic material. They are custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth and are virtually invisible when worn.

How does it work?

Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, nearly invisible aligners that gradually shift your teeth into the desired position. Each set of aligners is worn for a specific period, applying gentle and controlled forces to guide the teeth’s movement. As you progress through the process, your teeth gradually align according to your personalised treatment plan, resulting in a straighter smile. Regular check-ups with your orthodontist or dentist ensure that the treatment progresses as planned and adjustments are made if necessary.

What is the process for receiving invisible teeth aligners?

The process of getting Invisalign treatment begins with a consultation with an orthodontist or dentist who is trained in Invisalign medicine. During this consultation, your teeth, bite, and overall oral health will be evaluated to determine whether Invisalign is suitable for you.

If you proceed with Invisalign, a treatment plan will be created. This involves taking digital impressions, X-rays, and photographs of your teeth. Advanced 3D imaging technology visually represents your teeth and simulates the planned movement to achieve the desired final position. FY Smile uses Digital Smile Design technology to plan your treatment.

Based on the treatment plan, a series of custom aligners will be created specifically for you. Each aligner is designed to move your teeth into their desired positions gradually. The number of aligners required will depend on your treatment needs and goals.

You will wear each set of aligners for a specified period, typically around one to two weeks, before progressing to the next stage in the series. These aligners exert gentle, controlled forces on your teeth, gradually shifting them over time. As you go through the series of aligners, your teeth move closer to the desired alignment.

You will have periodic check-up appointments with your orthodontist or dentist throughout your treatment. These check-ups, typically every six to eight weeks, allow them to monitor your progress and provide you with new aligners as needed.

Once you have worn all the aligners in the series, your teeth should have achieved the desired alignment. However, to maintain the results, a retainer may be recommended. This retainer is typically worn at night or as instructed by your orthodontist.

Who is a suitable candidate?

Invisalign is suitable for many orthodontic cases but may be a better choice for some. The suitability of Invisalign treatment depends on several factors assessed during a consultation with an orthodontist or dentist. Generally, individuals with mild to moderate orthodontic issues can benefit from Invisalign.

Invisalign is effective in correcting various dental concerns, such as crowded teeth, gaps between teeth, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. It can also address some instances of teeth misalignment and malocclusion. However, severe or complex orthodontic issues may require alternative treatments such as traditional braces or orthodontic appliances.

Suitable Invisalign candidates should have good oral health, including healthy teeth and gums. Any pre-existing dental issues, such as tooth decay or gum disease, should be addressed and treated before starting Invisalign treatment to ensure the best results.

Another important aspect is patient compliance. Invisalign aligners must be worn consistently for the recommended duration (usually 20-22 hours daily) and changed according to the treatment plan. Patients should be committed to following the instructions provided by their orthodontist or dentist and maintain regular check-up appointments throughout the treatment process.

Age is not a limiting factor for Invisalign’s candidacy. Invisalign offers treatment options for both teenagers and adults. For teenagers, Invisalign Teen provides additional features such as eruption tabs to accommodate growing teeth and compliance indicators to track wear time.

The benefits of invisible teeth aligners

Invisalign offers several benefits that make it a popular choice for orthodontic treatment. One significant advantage is the aesthetics of Invisalign aligners. They are nearly invisible when worn, making them a more discreet option than traditional braces. This particularly appeals to individuals who wish to straighten their teeth without paying attention to their orthodontic treatment.

Another benefit of Invisalign is the removability of the aligners. Unlike traditional braces fixed onto the teeth, Invisalign aligners can be easily removed. This feature allows you to enjoy your favourite foods without restrictions since you can take out the aligners during meals. It also makes brushing and flossing more convenient, as you can maintain your regular oral hygiene routine without brackets and wires.

The comfort provided by Invisalign aligners is another notable advantage. The aligners are smooth plastic, minimising discomfort and irritation often associated with braces. The absence of metal brackets and wires eliminates the need for periodic adjustments and potential pain caused by tightening. The aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth comfortably, allowing for a more pleasant orthodontic experience.

Invisalign also offers predictable results. The treatment planning process utilises advanced technology, such as Digital Smile Design, to create a virtual representation of your teeth and simulate the expected movements throughout the treatment. This comprehensive visualisation provides a clear vision of the outcome, helping you understand and visualise the changes that will occur. The ability to anticipate and predict the results enhances the overall treatment experience.

Invisible Teeth Aligners at FY Smile in Double Bay

Our Double Bay clinic embraces a warm and welcoming environment, unlike traditional clinical settings. We have intentionally created an earthy feel and a serene atmosphere to help alleviate any anxieties you may have before your treatment begins.

We are proud to be Australia’s first and only ‘Slow Dentistry’ Clinic. This patient-centred approach focuses on enhancing the standards of care provided in dental clinics worldwide. Your understanding, well-being, and comfort are our top priorities, and we strive to ensure that each visit reflects these values.

If you’re interested in Invisalign, please get in touch with our team today to book your consultation.