Orthodontic treatment is something that many people will go through in their lifetime. However, there are many different options to choose from, including traditional choices like metal braces, or the more contemporary Invisalign. Clear aligners are increasing in popularity and use worldwide, but how do they work, and how effective are they really?
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment using removable aligner trays that custom-fit to your teeth and exert pressure to straighten them. The trays are made of a clear thermoplastic material, making them virtually invisible and less noticeable than other orthodontic appliances.
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign treatment works by using a series of slightly different trays over time. Your first trays are custom moulded from digital scans and x-rays to ensure that they fit your mouth specifically. These scans are also used to create a custom treatment plan regarding the correct tooth movements. A computer simulation can show you how your teeth are likely to look at the end of treatment.
How does Invisalign move teeth?
The scanning allows dentists to calculate the force it will take to move your teeth into a new position. Your first set is designed to fit on your teeth with enough force to move them gently. As they move, they will get used to this shape. Each subsequent set is slightly altered so that your teeth are constantly under pressure.
Your aligners are changed every 1-2 weeks and should be worn for a minimum of 22 hours a day. Aligners should only be removed when eating, drinking or cleaning your teeth. A full Invisalign treatment will typically take around 12 months, but it will depend on each individual case.
What does Invisalign treatment help to correct?
Invisalign’s main function is to treat crooked teeth, but the aligners can also be used for other malocclusions where the bottom and top teeth do not align properly. Invisalign can also be used to treat crowded teeth or those that have gaps by moving them into better positions.
Given that aligners are not fixed onto your teeth, they may not be as effective at treating complex misalignment issues. Complex misalignment or malocclusion cases should be treated by braces and more thorough orthodontic treatment options.
Who can get Invisalign?
Children under the age of 13 should not receive Invisalign because their jaws are still growing and changing. Changing the position of their teeth may only be temporary. Teens over 13 and adults are the best candidates because their jaws are more settled, and they are likely more capable of committing to wearing their aligners for 22 hours a day.
What you need to consider
There are many benefits of Invisalign treatment, but it is still important to consider both the advantages and disadvantages of the aligners and whether they are the right treatment for you.
Advantages of Invisalign
The advantage that is most valued by patients is that Invisalign offers a discreet orthodontic option. The clear aligners are relatively invisible to most people, unless you are specifically looking at the teeth. Many people avoid getting braces because of anxiety or embarrassment over how they will look, but Invisalign covers this issue. Another added benefit is the removability of Invisalign trays, which helps people manage the treatment plan comfortably.
Removable Invisalign aligners also ensure that patients can keep up their brushing and flossing without much disruption or difficulty. Fixed orthodontics like braces can be difficult to brush and clean around, and may lead to bacteria and plaque build-up. Similarly, without the presence of traditional braces and fixed brackets, there is also much more freedom in what you can eat, making aligners overall a more convenient treatment for your new smile.
Disadvantages of Invisalign
As we’ve noted, Invisalign is unfortunately not as well equipped to treat complex dental issues as other orthodontic appliances. You may not be recommended to get Invisalign if your issues are severe, or you will be unlikely to see the results you would like from the clear aligners.
Invisalign can also cause some headaches and jaw pain during the course of treatment, but these should not be severe issues. Smaller side effects include dry mouth when the retainer is worn for long periods at a time, small tongue cuts from having a foreign object in your mouth, and a slight lisp as you adapt to the clear aligners.
It is also possible to be allergic to Invisalign and the plastic the trays are made from. Prior to beginning treatment, we can test a piece of the material against your skin to see if it reacts, and if not, we can then move into the course of treatment.
How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost of Invisalign is similar to that of traditional metal braces, but it can depend on the length of your treatment plan and how complex or mild your case is. In most cases, a treatment plan will cost at least a few thousand dollars. You can always book a consultation with our team and they can provide a full breakdown of our Invisalign treatment cost for your individual case, and the payment options available.
Does private health cover treatment?
Many private health funds offer some cover for orthodontic treatment, so any claims you make for Invisalign will come under that limit. If you are considering Invisalign aligners, we suggest contacting your health fund directly to find out whether they would be able to partially or fully cover the treatment.
Get your dream smile at Oakleigh
As one of Melbourne’s platinum Invisalign providers, our dental practice is well-equipped to provide safe, effective and comfortable Invisalign treatment. With our help, you will have a confident smile in no time. Book a consultation today to find out if clear aligners are the treatment for you, and get started on your new smile journey.
