Invisalign has become one of the most popular ways for adults and teenagers to straighten their teeth, and it's one of the treatments we're asked about most at our Tettenhall Road practice. Whether you've been thinking about it for years or you've only just started looking, the answers below should help you understand what's involved before you book a consultation.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a brand of clear aligner made by Align Technology, which has been developing the system since 1997. Instead of brackets and wires, you wear a series of clear, removable plastic aligners, and each one moves your teeth a small step closer to their planned position. According to Align, more than 22 million people worldwide have now been treated with Invisalign.
What can Invisalign treat?
Invisalign can be used for a wide range of straightening problems, from minor tweaks to more complex cases. That includes crowded teeth, gaps between teeth, overbites, underbites, crossbites and open bites. It isn't right for everyone, though, and the only way to know whether it suits your teeth is an assessment with your dentist.
How does Invisalign treatment work?
Treatment at Larcholme starts with a consultation and a 3D scan of your teeth using our iTero digital scanner, so there's no need for messy putty impressions. From that scan, your dentist uses Invisalign's ClinCheck planning software to map out how each tooth will move, and in many cases you can see a simulation of your finished smile before you decide to go ahead.
Once your aligners are made, we'll check they fit comfortably, then you'll swap to a new set every week or two as your dentist advises. You'll come back for regular check-ups so we can make sure everything is moving as planned.
How long does Invisalign take?
It depends on how much your teeth need to move. Align says most people reach their result in around 12 to 18 months, while mild cases can be finished in as little as six months. Many patients notice a visible difference within the first few months.
How many hours a day do I need to wear my aligners?
You'll need to wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day for them to work properly. That means wearing them while you sleep and taking them out only to eat, drink anything other than water, and clean your teeth. Wearing them only at night isn't enough to move your teeth as planned.
Can I eat and drink with Invisalign?
You take your aligners out to eat, so there are no foods to avoid in the way there are with fixed braces. Plain water is fine with your aligners in, but remove them for any other drink. Sugary or acidic drinks can get trapped between the aligner and your teeth, which raises the risk of decay. After eating, brush your teeth, or at least rinse with water, before putting your aligners back in.
Do I need to change how I clean my teeth?
Keep brushing twice a day and clean between your teeth at least once a day, just as you normally would. Because the aligners come out, cleaning is much easier than with fixed braces. It's also a good time to keep up regular hygiene appointments.
Is Invisalign noticeable?
The aligners are made from clear plastic and are trimmed to follow your gum line, so most people won't notice you're wearing them. Some patients need small, tooth-coloured bumps called attachments bonded to a few teeth to help the aligners grip and move them. Your dentist will tell you if you need them.
Does Invisalign hurt?
Most people feel some pressure or tightness for a day or two when they start a new set of aligners. That's a sign the aligners are working, and it usually settles quickly. Unlike braces, there are no wires or brackets to rub, and no broken wires to fix.
How much does Invisalign cost in Wolverhampton?
Align says the cost of Invisalign is usually comparable to traditional braces, with the final price depending on how complex your case is and how long treatment takes. At Larcholme, Invisalign starts from £3,300, and your dentist will give you a written cost before you commit. You can also spread the cost over 12 months with 0% finance on treatment over £250.
Will I need a retainer afterwards?
Yes. Like any teeth-straightening treatment, including braces, you'll need to wear a retainer once treatment ends to stop your teeth drifting back. Your dentist will talk you through the retainer options and how often to wear it.
Is Invisalign suitable for teenagers?
Invisalign is used for both adults and teenagers, and because the aligners are removable, they don't get in the way of sport or playing an instrument. Teenagers need to be committed to wearing them for 20 to 22 hours a day, so it's worth talking this through together at the consultation.
How do I know if Invisalign is right for me?
The best way to find out is to book a consultation. Your dentist will check the health of your teeth and gums, scan your teeth and explain whether Invisalign, fixed braces or another option would work best for you.
If you're ready to find out whether Invisalign could work for you, book a consultation at Larcholme Dental Practice on Tettenhall Road. Your dentist will scan your teeth with our iTero scanner, show you what's possible, and talk you through your options, costs and 0% finance, with no pressure to go ahead.