How Does Invisalign Work?

Dental Care Tips | 23rd January 2022

Invisalign takes everything you know about traditional metal or ceramic braces and turns it on its head. Gone are the obvious, non-removable ‘train tracks’, uncomfortable brace-tightening appointments and challenges in keeping your teeth and gums clean. Instead, Invisalign presents a teeth-straightening solution that uses cutting-edge technology to make the process significantly more appealing and patient-friendly.

How do I know Invisalign is for me?

As experts in cosmetic dental procedures, your initial consultation will assess whether Invisalign will deliver the best results or if alternative orthodontic treatment is required before or in place of Invisalign. We construct treatment plans that have our patients best interests at heart and deliver an honest assessment of the best way to achieve a winning smile.

The Invisalign process

Invisalign is made out of thin, clear, smooth medical-grade plastic that is BPA free. Throughout your treatment, you’ll receive a number of these invisible aligners. Following an initial consultation with us, we will book the first appointment for your Invisalign treatment process. It is here that we will use 3D computer-imaging technology to map out a treatment plan which will take you from your current dental alignment to your new, transformed teeth.

Based on this plan, you’ll get a new Invisalign mould every few weeks — each exerting pressure on different areas in a controlled, targeted way to gradually align your teeth. A new set of Invisalign may be uncomfortable initially, but this will soon pass as your teeth get used to the new pressure points. If there is excessive pain, we do recommend to patients to take painkillers such as Panadol or Nurofen. We’ll give you a smile that you’re proud of in no time.

Incorporating Invisalign into your lifestyle

It’s easy to incorporate your Invisalign routine into your everyday life. With clear, smooth and comfortable aligners, you’ll hardly notice your Invisalign is even on and neither will anyone else. You should aim to keep your Invisalign in at all times, apart from when you’re eating, cleaning your teeth or washing your aligners. The more disciplined you are in wearing them, the shorter your treatment will be. However, there’s no harm in taking them out for the odd special occasion.

How long will I have to wear Invisalign?

The journey to your perfect smile will differ in length depending on your treatment plan. Some patients may require gap removal or full teeth straightening, other patients may have crowded teeth, crossbites or overbites that need addressing. Treatment can be as short as six months or as long as two years when the treatment plan is complex. Our dentists will be able to give you an indication of timescales at your initial consultation.

Cleaning and aftercare of your Invisalign

It’s easy to look after your Invisalign aligners, simply rinse and brush with a toothbrush morning and night as you would do with your teeth. Once a week we recommend giving them a deep clean using the Invisalign cleaning kit.

While Invisalign is hard-wearing, it’s important to keep an eye out for any cracks. Contact your orthodontist immediately if you spot any damage to your aligners so that they can be repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

Life after Invisalign treatment

Once you finally have the smile you’ve always dreamed of, you might be wondering what to do next.  Some patients may require a period of maintenance which could include wearing a retainer at night. It’s important to keep regular appointments with our dentists so that you can maintain good oral health and beautiful teeth.

Your personalised Invisalign plan

To find out if Invisalign can transform your smile, book a consultation with Dr Angelo Lazaris. As one of Sydney’s top-rated general and cosmetic dentists with long-held Invisalign Platinum Elite status, you can rest assured that the future of your smile is in good hands. Dr Lazaris ensures that each patient receives a comprehensive treatment plan right from the initial appointment and through to the post-treatment review.

Discover our expert dental services and Invisalign treatment today

If you have more questions about our treatments, we provide a wealth of information about Invisalign treatment across our website. Alternatively, get in contact with us to discuss how you could benefit from Invisalign.

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