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What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a discrete orthodontic treatment which utilises clear tray aligners to straighten misaligned smiles. Treatment is subtle, moving the teeth into a straight position whilst being undetectable to the eye.
The treatment can vary in duration based on your smile's needs, but the treatment itself follows a process. This starts with the initial tray fitting and computer-aided mapping of the teeth's movement over the course of treatment.
The trays - which are made up of polyurethane resins - are designed in clusters, so each set can be swapped for the next in as little time as a week and in some cases after a month or two. This ensures the teeth are on track to move into their arched alignment.
Why might I need Invisalign?
Everyone has a different reason for wanting clear aligners - you may find you're loooking at it to improve confidence in your smile, but for others, it may be a great option for restoring the mouth and teeth into a place where it is comfortable to eat and speak.
Typically, misaligned teeth are no cause for concern. However, if your teeth are severely misaligned, you may find it difficult to chew with certain teeth. Similarly, if your teeth are overcrowded, undercrowded or positioned in a way that obstructs the mouth, the you may report a speech impediment that you wish to correct.
Advantages of Invisalign
The first and most obvious advantage of opting for an Invisalign treatment is its discreet appearance. You can undergo treatment without the typically noticeable wires and brackets in place that traditional orthodonticsa speciality of dentistry that deals with the correction of malpositioned teeth. require.
The second biggest advantage to Invisalign is being able to see your teeth moving into alignment throughout your treatment, making a perfectly aligned smile an excting journey!
Unlike braces, Invisalign is comfortable on the gums and inner cheek, which is ideal as you will be less likely to experience discomfort from the metal digging in and scratching them.
Invisalign is also easy to clean, where traditional braces can be quite tricky, and they require slightly more time to clean to prevent cavities. Invisalign can simply be removed to be cleaned, also allowing for the tooth surface to be properly cleaned in the process.
With Invisalign, you don't need to worry about limiting what you're eating, unlike regular braces where specific foods must be removed from your diet to ensure their maintenance. The freedom to eat as we want can be a huge factor in determining if it is the right treatment for you.
How long does it take?
Each Invisalign treatment is likely to vary in duration due to the uniqueness of each patient's mouth. However, treatment typically lasts between 3 months to 2 years.
If you require a significant shift in alignment, you are far more likely to be wearing your Invisalign trays over an extended period, whilst those requiring only minor adjustments may find the duration lasts as little as a few months.
What does Invisalign cost?
Invisalign treatment is not currently available through the NHS, so it must be paid for privately. Treatment costs can vary, so to find out the pricing at your nearest clinic, please contact your local Colosseum Dental practice for a personalised cost estimate.
Why choose Colosseum Dental?
Colosseum Dental is a leading dental care provider in the UK, serving over 750,000 NHS and private patients.
At Colosseum Dental, we are committed to delivering exceptional, personalised care at competitive prices, with a range of payment options to suit individual needs. With access to the latest technology and continual professional development, our expert clinicians ensure patients receive the highest standard of care.
Maintenance & aftercare
Looking after your Invisalign aligners properly is essential for achieving the best results and maintaining great oral health. Regular cleaning helps prevent staining, plaqueA soft sticky substance that accumulates on teeth composed largely of bacteria and bacterial derivatives. buildup, and unwanted odours, keeping both your smile and your aligners clear and fresh.
1. Brush your aligners gently
Use a soft toothbrush and a small amount of toothpaste to lightly scrub your aligners. Just as you brush your natural teeth, this helps remove bacteria and keep the trays clear. Avoid using abrasive toothpaste, which can scratch the surface.
2. Use Invisalign cleaning crystals
Cleaning crystals dissolve in warm water to create a refreshing cleansing solution. Soak your aligners for 5–10 minutes, then rinse and gently brush them. Use a separate toothbrush to avoid transferring any residue from the cleaning solution.
3. Try a sonic cleaner
A sonic or ultrasonic cleaner can help loosen and remove stubborn bacteria. Simply place your aligners in the device with the recommended cleaning solution and allow it to work.
4. Use plaque‑revealing tablets
Plaque‑staining tablets can highlight any areas you may be missing, helping you clean your aligners more effectively.
To keep your Invisalign aligners in great condition, we recommend the following:
- Do not eat whilst wearing them as this can cause damage to the aligners and trap food aprticles, leading to plaque buildup
- Avoid sugary or hot drinks, especially tea, coffee and fizzy beverages, as these can stain or warp your aligners. Always remove your aligner trays before drinking anything that isn't cool/cold water.
Once your Invisalign treatment is complete, you’ll need to wear a retainer at night to help maintain your new smile. These retainers will hold your teeth in their new, corrected position, preventing them from shifting back.
Continue your regular oral hygiene routine (brushing twice daily and cleaning between your teeth) to prevent plaque from building up between your retainer and your teeth.
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